While the political and governmental landscape in Texarkana, Texas, was undergoing a fairly comprehensive change last week, others from both sides of the state line were digesting ideas about cosmetic alterations to the road that is our claim to fame, State Line Avenue.

The latter is no less valid than the former, as our signature street speaks volumes about our pride of place and proper perception.

We look forward to what will develop as the City Beautification Committees final report on the Twin Cities thoroughfare and what eventually could evolve from that. It sounds so much better than what we have now.

The CBC, made up of people from both sides of town and consultants from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, mostly spoke of a three-pronged improvement project for State Line Avenue that grew out of public meetings. The consultants will put together a report the CBC can pitch to government and school officials on both sides of the line.

One idea is a three-part project that would promote development of a gateway image where Interstate 30 and State Line cross, midblock enhancements (banners, artwork, landscaping, etc.) where possible from the gateway southbound and improvements at the Downtown Post Office. All would capitalize on the unique idea of a street state line.

Gussying up state line while not disturbing traffic flow to businesses would be a great improvement. It would draw the eyes of tourists and travelers away from the warts on our concrete complexion.

Of course, we would argue, as we have for a long time, that people who own property along State Line should supplement any CBC-scapes with cleanup and other complementary improvements.

When it comes to economic development, perception is reality, as most planners will attest. For too long, perception of State Line, with its hodge-podge of signage and diverse architecture, has indicated a lack of cohesion and compatibility. It bespeaks multiple personality disorder rather than a richness of diversity.

If we can make State Line reflect our dreams and determination to outsiders as well as ourselves, there is so much more we can do together to bring people and prosperity to our quirky geographic position.