buildings dating back to the 1800s. As it approaches a population milestone of 10,000, the community is preparing for the challenges and opportunities that come with rapid growth. With a clear focus on preserving its culture and heritage, Collinsville’s leadership is determined to maintain its identity while embracing the future. “One of the things we’ve done is establish a Historic Preservation District. We’ve received our historical Main Street designation, and we are protecting that identity and culture while also embracing the outskirts development,” says City Manager Chuck Ralls. The Historic Preservation District is complimented by a Historic Preservation Committee that includes property owners, planners, and local historians. This group works collectively to ensure that the historical significance of Collinsville’s Main Street is maintained, creating an environment where history and modernity coexist. The city’s Main Street, now designated as the “Depot District,” stretches four blocks and is home to buildings that have witnessed over a century of local evolution. At the east end, the historic train depot, built in 1908, is currently being transformed into a museum, accompanied by a turn-of-the-century caboose — one of only 40 remaining in the United States! In collaboration with the Cherokee Nation and private partners, the city is also developing a $3.5 million Depot Park, further solidifying the historical importance of the railway to Collinsville past and future. “We’re embracing the historical significance of the railroad in our community… so the railroad made a huge role in transporting products across the country, and the world in some cases, to service men and women back during World War I,” Ralls explains. This dedication to preserving history is a key part of the city’s identity, and also a big factor behind its 82 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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