Kirbyville -- Residents of Kirbyville said their final farewells to a beloved city icon, the water tower, which was dismantled Thursday morning. Known for its distinctive paw print emblem, the tower had been a familiar sight since its construction in the 1930s.

Rodolfo Briz, manager of Elijah's Cafe, reflected on the tower's significance.

"That emblem is a symbol for the city, for the kids, the adults and everybody," said Briz.

The 50,000-gallon structure had deteriorated over time, necessitating its removal. Briz, who has managed the cafe for 16 years, noted the impact of the tower's condition on local businesses.

"That's how we clean our plates. and sanitize everything. We use it for every single thing," he said, explaining how waterline breaks had previously forced the restaurant to close due to loss of water pressure.

In its place, a new 150,000-gallon water tower will be constructed, funded by a $2.6 million grant from Jasper County, with the city of Kirbyville contributing an additional $500,000. The city aims to complete the project by the end of the year.

Briz expressed mixed emotions about the change.

"It has been there for awhile and everybody comes into town and sees that pawprint on the tower, so it's kind of sad," he said. However, he welcomed the improved infrastructure, even treating the workers to lunch in appreciation of their efforts.

The new water tower promises to bring stability and reliability to the community's water supply. The city says it aims to have the new water tower built by the end of this year.