Main Street Marion, in coordination with business owners Brad and Page Sturgis, proudly announce completion of the façade improvements to “College City Drugs”.  The new look, designed in consultation with a historic artist and designer from the National Main Street Organization, incorporates design features appropriate for Marion’s historic downtown.  The improvements include updated signage by Chris Freeman at “Metal and Lights” in Brent, new canvas awnings by Gabo Fernandez at “Alabama Canvas Awnings” in Tuscaloosa, a brand new additional sign, “& gifts”, designed by Jody Highfield and Lisa Lemler at “DLD Plasma Cutting” in Marion, gooseneck lamps, and new paint by Traci Green of Marion with attention to the brick accents on the old Elmore’s building.  All of these changes have created a pleasing new look for a much-loved storefront.

 

Historically, “College City Drugs” has been an iconic business in Marion’s downtown since 1963 when Roy and Inez Barnett bought Scruggs Drugs and two adjacent shops on the 300 block of Washington Street, combining them to create College City Drugs.  The 300 block is directly across from the Historic Perry County Courthouse on Marion’s central downtown square.   In the early 1970’s Inez and Roy bought the old Elmore’s building as well, using it first as a “Radio Shack” and then a gift shop expansion to the drug store. 

 

In 2001 Page and Brad Sturgis purchased “College City Drugs” from the Barnetts.   Page and Brad have kept the essence of the iconic business while making their own extensive renovations and improvements through the last twenty years. 

 

Main Street Marion is proud to serve the community and will continue to assist in the revitalization of our city’s downtown and business corridor.  The Façade Improvement Program is one of our most visible and rewarding programs.  Asked for a quote about the façade improvements to “College City Drugs”, Roy Barnett responded, “I love it!  It looks great!”.   Brad Sturgis is quoted as saying “It looks fantastic!” and Page says, “Looks great!”.   Praise from our business owners is high praise!    #MovingMarionForward.