Vibrant Downtowns; Dynamic Multi-­‐Faceted Centers for Social and Commercial Engagement

Vibrant Downtowns are essential features of character towns. They are the dynamic setting for social and economic discourse with physical settings that facilitate conversations and gathers; places such as cafe’s, restaurants, libraries, post offices, plazas and parks. People seem to enjoy life in certain small town downtowns and special places within bigger cities. Main street is the place where society, commerce and tourism meet and flourish. The features of the main street and the sidewalks, the mix of uses, the respect for historic and natural resources and the pedestrian connections of the public buildings, libraries, museums and theaters combine to create a setting that is attractive to existing and future residents, visitors and businesses. Apartments and walk-to neighborhoods add a spontaneity to the downtown customer experience. A hotel on or near main street is a threshold use that puts main street in a stronger position to accommodate the business community and transition visitors from day-trippers to week-enders.

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