A Healthy Downtown
They weren’t asked to necessarily be practical. They weren’t required to have specific dollar figures in mind.
They’re not necessarily architects, financiers or city planners.
They simply were asked for their ideas—about what could be done to help downtown Norfolk continue to thrive and prosper.
Participants in the Daily News’ reader feedback program responded to that topic after the front page of the paper was filled one day last week with stories about prominent downtown businesses either closing or moving elsewhere.
They share a desire to see downtown Norfolk to be vibrant, bustling destination. They have fond memories of shopping excursions there in years past. They have ideas, dreams and visions.
Or, as Gene Lorang of Norfolk said, “If you are looking for creative, constructive suggestions as to how to revitalize downtown areas, I do not think you are going to find any.
Well, let’s not be too quick to judgment. First consider what some of the feedback participants had to say.
Many made references to other areas, such as Omaha’s Old Market, as an example of creating a desirable atmosphere that attracts people.
“The Old Market has a very eclectic mix of eateries, shops, clubs, etc., that draw people to visit from all over the state. Some downtown store owners might think that some of the people shopping in stores in the Old Market are not really target clientele for our area, but business is business,” said Stephany Matson of Norfolk.
Mary Zachmeyer of Norfolk agreed. “I love the Old Market in Omaha. It’s inviting, romantic, lots of variety in shopping and an elegant hotel in which to stay. Brick sidewalks, artists on street corners, clowns for kids, singers, poets and no traffic all add to it,” She said. “We really have a lot of variety of shops downtown in Norfolk. But it would take lots of money to redo and create the right atmosphere.
Nick Brekenfeld said it’s important to remember that Norfolk isn’t the only community facing this issue.
“The problem is the same in all cities—the big ‘super stores’ are now becoming ‘mega stores’ and they have almost everything under one roof. People are getting lazier so if they can get everything they need in one place, why go downtown?” he said. “I don’t think there is a good answer other than very good service and personal contact.”
Marge Albracht of Humphrey had praise for the efforts that already have taken place in Norfolk.
“I think the area looks great with the work they’ve done with sidewalks and streets,” she said. “I also think it would work to have offices there, such as lawyers, dentists, etc. I don’t like to see empty buildings, so I hope something can be done.”
Jean Hopkins of Norfolk said she’d like to see more specialty shops make their home in Norfolk. “Nice restaurants would help, too,” she said.
Lisa Lackas of Wausa also likes the idea of specialized shops. “More clothing, more variety shops. Maybe even a place for the teens to go and hang out. How about an old-time malt shop/diner-themed place like Yesterday’s Café in Yankton? There also needs to be cooler clubs for the adults to hang out in.”
Mike Golden of Meadow Grove said he thinks the downtown area would be helped if business owners and tenants would demonstrate more pride.
“Over the Christmas season, there were many trees put out but many went undecorated or had measly décor. No lights, no nothing,” he said. “We also need more later hours one or two nights a week in which stores are open until 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. And more activities downtown, too.”
Ann Kasik, a former Norfolkan now living in Fort Mohave, Ariz., said she’s not sure what the ultimate solution is—she just hopes one can be found and acted upon.
“It is sad, for as a child, I remember Thursday night being the best shopping for the downtown area. We have become dependent on the big box stores that are open 24/7,” she said. “Each time I visit downtown Norfolk, I am saddened by the closures of the stores of my childhood.”
Story courtesy of Norfolk Daily News
Posted on: Friday, March 9, 2007