Emphasizing arts smart strategy by city officials

Daily Journal

In the past couple of decades, Greenwood has grown significantly in terms of area. But even though its geographic center falls somewhere near U.S. 31 and Apryl Drive, its heart will remain the Old Town area.

The several blocks near Madison Avenue and Main Street carry the visual character of the city from an earlier time, and one that is worthy of being preserved.

But Old Town also has changed in that time. It’s no longer the commercial center of the city. But it has attracted a blend of unique shops. In that one small section, visitors can walk from art gallery to boutique to tea shop. Wine lovers can sip a glass of Cabernet and sample Gruyere cheese. Sushi and classic Italian restaurants sit side-by-side on Madison Avenue.

Cities with similar areas have applied to make these sections state-recognized cultural districts. The designation helps support tourism and establish the area as a destination, taking advantage of a broad marketing campaign to get people to the neighborhood.

That could be an option for Greenwood in the future.

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