The long awaited metalwork for the downtown arches arrived Monday and installation has commenced.

The arches consist of black steel pillars shrouded by brick pilaster structures, a 10-foot-long lattice style overhang and suspension of large cutout letters to spell out CERES - outlined in light bulbs. City Engineer Daryl Jordan said that the electrical work will be next with the arch lit up by next week.

On Tuesday crews began planting shrubs in the landscape areas on the north of the project with the entire plants in by the end of next week.

"I think it's really popping," said Jordan.

He anticipates the city will have a ribbon cutting for the first week of January.

The renovation of downtown is apparently prompting private investments all over Fourth Street. Economic Development Manager Steve Hallam said downtown businessman Jim Delhart has agreed to invest in the facades of several of his buildings on Fourth Street. Delhart, who lost his wife to death last week, indicated to the city that her wish was that the couple would participate in the new looks of downtown by doing their part.

The empty DeBoard and Govett Chiropractic building has been purchased by Sam Kachao, who plans to create two lease spaces with a façade renovation to re-open the window spaces. There is speculation that a Mexican restaurant will fill one of the spaces.

Also soon to open on Fourth Street is Pastas Pronto.