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Wednesday, September 03, 2008, 10:44 AM
Take a fresh look downtown By Keith Barnes | Daily Times Photojournalist Although some feared it might never happen, there finally seems to be cause for real excitement and optimism in downtown Wilson. With changing times, Wilson has, like other similar cities, seen some former downtown businesses either close or relocate to the suburbs in recent years. While the reasons for moving may be valid, a total abandonment of downtown does no good for the overall city picture. Therefore, officials would like to invite you to visit downtown Wilson, even those who might not have been in years or may have never been since being told by real estate agents and others to stay away. Yes, there may still be a few boarded-up stores and other ugly spots, and city officials know it will never again be as vibrant as during tobacco markets of the '40s and '50s, or even in the '60s when its retail stores were the only game in town. Still, its importance can't be overemphasized. While recent musical events staged in the downtown area are positive steps, there can't be a concert every day, and these events alone don't paint a true picture of the area. It's the other days in between that needed to be addressed, and there's good news to report along those lines. Three new downtown restaurants, all located within a couple of blocks of each other in the central business district, are the reason. In addition, several other downtown projects are nearing completion, including Paul V. Berry Centennial Park and Carolina Theater (the old Drake). While curious onlookers have observed progress at these building sites, it's not enough just to ride by and gawk from your cars. Remember, these places, along with other established downtown businesses, all have one thing in common: They require your support, and yes, your dollars, to stay afloat. I've seen other North Carolina downtowns once given up for dead, among them Mount Airy, Salisbury, Sanford and Goldsboro, yet through a combined effort of monetary investment and guts they were brought back to life and are now positive forces in these cities. Downtown Wilson may not be the answer to all your problems, nor is it the only place you have to visit, but in the larger scheme of things it's definitely worth saving. barnes@wilsondaily.com | 265-7855
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