Several months after voters approved a measure allowing Round Rock to use Type B funds for purposes other than transportation, the city is exploring the idea of using some of the funds to revitalize the downtown area.

At a joint meeting of the Round Rock Transportation and Economic Development Corporation on April 12, Robert Johnson, formerly of the Texas Department of Economic Development, discussed utilizing Type B funds to revitalize downtown Round Rock and other historic areas to encourage economic development and tourism.

In his presentation, Johnson suggested the following: infrastructure improvements to streets, sidewalks, utilities and lighting; and the providing of grants for facade and building improvements.

"The downtown area is the soul of a city," Johnson said. "You've got a gem here—it's not run-down—and I think there's tremendous opportunity here."

Some of the benefits of revitalization, Johnson said, are increased property value, tourism and economic development.

Round Rock voters approved the removal of restrictions on the city's Type B 1/2 cent sales tax in November. Previously the funds could only be used for transportation-related projects.

No action was taken at the meeting.