Organizations look to collaborate on downtown revitalization efforts
With a Downtown Development Strategy in place, local organizations are looking to join forces in an effort to move the plan forward. The Charlotte Chamber of Commerce, Can Do! and City of Charlotte Downtown Development Authority will hold a joint meeting Jan. 14 to discuss how the organizations can work together towards downtown revitalization efforts. “This strategy is only going to work if it has wide ownership,” said Charlotte Community Development Director Bryan Myrkle. “It seems like all of these local economic development groups should be playing a role and I think they all want to see how their efforts can make a positive difference.” Myrkle, who worked with staff at city hall as well as officials from the State of Michigan and the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) to develop the plan, said he envisions organizations and individuals identifying tasks in which to take the lead. “We’ve got to have some champions for this to work,” Myrkle said. “The plan is a framework. There is very little that can’t be adjusted. I’m hoping people will take a look and identify the part they want to play. They’ll get whatever help they want, but I’m not going to be overbearing in the leadership. This really needs to be everybody’s plan.” Charlotte Chamber of Commerce board president Garrett Bensinger said collaboration is essential to any success the revitalization plan may...
Read More