The Town of Tryon has accepted an easement to the St. Luke’s Plaza property to maintain as a public gathering place, including items such as benches, water features and signs.

Tryon Town Council met April 16 and approved the easement contingent on not having to maintain any parking spaces in the plaza.

Interim town manager Joey Davis said the easement is for the town to receive the plaza portion of the St. Luke’s property. The property is approximately 20 feet deep and runs along the front of the plaza property.

Tryon Economic Development Director Crys Armbrust also announced that the anticipated completion date of the renovations to the building is June 1. Armbrust said contractors have finished boxing in one of the interior bays and the brick mason should be completed this week. The roof was completed last week as well as half of the interior electrical, Armbrust said.

The deed states that the property is to be used by the Town of Tryon for the purpose of establishing and maintaining a public gathering place for the use of the citizens of Polk County and not be limited to the installation of tables, benches, bicycle racks, information displays, art exhibits, plantings, water features and other like facilities.

Property owner Bob Lane, who is restoring the building for retail and public gathering purposes, agreed to lease the easement to Tryon for $1.

Plans are for the plaza to include a wine bar, restaurant, ice cream shop and an artist gallery and studio, said Armbrust.

Melanie Archer, a former costume designer on Broadway, signed a lease to bring a new food option to Tryon.

The Ruby Slipper will be a café offering food, wine, coffee, gelato and soft serve ice cream. Archer hopes to have the restaurant open to the public this summer.