theHword.com

Interesting story in Wednesday’s Omaha World-Herald. It seems that some Norfolk leaders recently visited Hastings to learn more about how we’ve been able to build and retain a vibrant downtown.  According to the story, Chris Amundson from Norfolk says: “The finest downtown revitalization is in Hastings.  We want to learn what they do to make it work.”

So what is Hastings doing right?  According to the story, it’s a four-point program involving design, organization, promotion and economic restructuring.  The development of upper-level living downtown has also been an ingredient for success.

The Community Redevelopment Authority has implemented innovative approaches to building vacancies, tax-increment financing and improvements all focused on creating a sustainable retail, service and residential environment in downtown Hastings.

Anyone who has traveled across the state knows that downtown districts in many other cities our size (or even larger) are struggling. But in Hastings, downtown is a pretty cool mix of locally-owned retail outlets, unique shops, entertainment, and great places to eat, drink and just hang out.

It’s easy to take that for granted.  And sometimes, it takes someone from outside the community to remind us of what we have.

Read the story at: http://www.omaha.com/article/20100106/NEWS01/701069902

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