CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — If you drive through downtown Crystal River, you may notice some new artwork on one of the buildings on U.S. 19.

It's all part of an effort by the city's Main Street program to beautify the area. 

"I thought it would really accent well with what we already have going on Citrus Avenue," said artist Rachel Ford. 

Ford's mural is an eye-catching piece on the corner of U.S. 19 and Citrus Avenue, showcasing some of what the area has to offer.

"In summer time we have a very big scallop season," Ford said. 

"Scallops were great, but I didn't think it was quite enough just to have a point of interest being the shells," she said. "So also to kind of highlight on our recent mermaids and margarita festival, which was a big success, I thought, 'Oh we can do mermaid and have scallops be the accent.'" 

This is the first mural organized through the city's Main Street program, using a city grant to help bring it to life.

There are already plans to create three other murals in the area. 

Building owner David Deso was approached about the project by the Executive Director of Crystal River's Main Street program and agreed to commission the mural. 

"I thought it was a tremendous idea to help promote Crystal River and make the building look more attractive, which in turn helps my tenants out," Deso said.

The hope is that by beautifying the area, more businesses will want to move into downtown. 

"I just hope my work combined with the other murals downtown and the overall feel of Citrus Avenue, it really becomes one of those towns that you remember because it has a complete ambiance," Ford explained. 

The Crystal River Main Street program will have an informational session for artists interested in creating a mural for the area. It's on February 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Best Western in Crystal River.