So many new construction projects are nearing completion, I am having a little difficulty keeping track.

Here is an attempt at naming most of them.

On Harkrider Street, the Bank of America branch that was torn down and rebuilt appears to be complete. On Salem Road, the Summit Bank branch is well under way, as is the Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches next door. Also making progress is the future Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins on Oak Street.

Just getting started on Prince Street is the future Kobe Japanese Steak House (where Blockbuster Video used to be), along with Mamacita’s Mexican Grill, which will bring a dining option back to the old Los Amigos building. Apparently construction started on Kobe back around September (you may remember reading about it in this space at that time), but then it was halted for a while by the permit process. I’m sure folks in that part of town are glad to hear the project is up and running again.

To the future

As you know, sometimes I like to dream about what kinds of things Conway might have in the future. Most of it will turn out differently than I imagine, but who knows what kind of useful ideas might come forth from a good brainstorm?

A lot of my favorite vacant buildings have become occupied lately, which is great. Here’s a couple I haven’t mentioned before — the old movie theater and the old Western Sizzlin’ (which did a short run as New China 2). I have seen some good strides toward revamping Oak Street, but let’s face it. These two buildings are kind of haunting us. Maybe someone should turn Western Sizzlin’ into an office building. I have no idea what you do with an old movie theater. Laser tag arena?

In other random observations, there are evidently two lots for sale left at Dave Ward Drive and South German Lane. Either that or a very large, L-shaped lot. At this time, the little island has a Taco Bueno and a Hardee’s, and it just needs something else, in my opinion. I’m thinking Starbucks — but you already knew that, didn’t you?

Everyone have a good week.

(Rachel Parker Dickerson is a freelance columnist/journalist. Send your questions and comments to rachelpdickerson@gmail.com)