The economy is booming in Orange as the city council has approved three new economic development grants, including a new apartment complex. Also, the city will be spending a half-million dollars on improvements to the Riverside Pavilion and Boat Ramp area.
The money for the improvements to the recreational area will come from the city’s Hotel Occupancy Tax paid by people who stay in local hotels and motels. The city’s public works department reports the Pavilion and Boat Ramp have been “key assets” to promote tourism and the local hotel business.
The acreage off Simmons Drive and along the Sabine River has become the site of numerous community activities with the pavilion providing covered space with a stage to host events and concerts in the rain…