Local businesses on the square are losing revenue due to construction. The city is instituting a ‘Shop Downtown’ campaign in hopes of promoting commerce and consoling disruptions caused by recent construction projects in the downtown area.

City of San Marcos officials are looking into grant and loan options to help ease the strain on local downtown businesses caused by construction.

Christie's Jewelers located off of Hutchinson St. has a wide selection of engagement and wedding rings.

While wedding traditions change over time, one is still a symbol of a union and a promise—the engagement ring.

The funds to buy an engagement ring could be an issue for college students. Christie’s Jewelry and Watch Repair and Paper Bear can accommodate college sweethearts intending to pop the question.

Christie’s sales associate Sarah Clark said the average 14 karat diamond ring can range from $800 to $10,000 in store. There are several options to bring the price down. A prospective fiance could opt for sterling silver instead of gold or platinum, significantly lowering the price.

Clark said Christie’s is used to working with students on a budget.

Texas State’s Science, Technology and Advanced Research Park has found companies with unique products to fill vacancies in its building.

S.T.A.R. Park will house and assist startup companies in its McCarty Lane location, said Executive Director Stephen Frayser. Companies hoping to apply for a space had to satisfy two tests to be eligible. The companies must be creating a unique, new product working toward a significant impact. The startups must have an affiliation with the university, such as offering formal internship programs or licensing intellectual property.

Frayser said the park is not only a real estate location, but an environment for beneficial interaction between the university and businesses.