ROYSE CITY -- A small city in Rockwall County has a plan to bring help grow it's historic downtown: Cold beer.
Opening day for Thirsty Bro Brewing Co. on Main Street in Royse City is two months away, and Terry Gordon has his work cut out for him.
"People like to try something different, so we just wanted to give them a local alternative, instead of going all the way into Rockwall," Gordon said.
Gordon is new to beer brewing, but has worked in the beverage industry for decades. His microbrewery will be the first of it's kind in downtown Royse City.
What's unique about Gordon's shop isn't just the beer -- it's the backing.
Last month, the city council agreed to front $25,000 in grant money to help the small business succeed.
"We have to work really, really hard to keep the downtown vibrant, as well," said Larry Lott of the Community Development Corporation. "It's very important to our community and it's a big part of what our community is, the downtown area."
A good portion of that money is going into saving the building itself. With help from the Texas Historical Commission, this is just one step in preserving the entire block.
The city is helping to fund Gordon's dream business. But with the financial backing comes the expectation and the pressure to perform.
If he doesn't meet the goals set by the city, he'll have to pay it back.
"They're very excited about the opportunity, but they're also very hopeful that we come in so we really succeed, so that it will bring some new life to the city," Gordon said.