Letters: City and state need to get behind Canal Street revitalization
As founder of Celebrate Canal, the citizen-led initiative leading its revitalization, I am proud of the first year’s results, bringing families back to Canal Street. We are grateful for the support of so many citizens and Mayor-elect Helena Moreno and the City Council as we move forward. We have developed a doable economic development plan that will have positive ripple effects throughout the city and state. The major projects include higher retail and family attractions, with an overriding theme that reflects our history and culture. Importantly, they can begin almost immediately.
Other cities’ revitalizations have in common the recognition that revitalization is economic development. They tout the resulting increases in jobs, population and taxes, creating additional resources to spend on other important needs.