Jackson to continue uptown work using DREAM Initiative programs

Now that Jackson has been named a DREAM Initiative city by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Mayor Barbara Lohr said the city plans to continue improving and revitalizing the city's historic uptown district.

"Now the hard work starts, but we are ready for it," she said.

The DREAM Initiative, which stands for Downtown Revitalization and Economic Assistance for Missouri, gives designated cities prioritized access to state-supported programs including, technical and financial assistance for infrastructure improvements, historic preservation, affordable housing, community services, business development and job creation.

Lohr said she would like to see enhancement and expansion in the city's streetscape along High Street.

The application for the designation was completed by Janet Sanders, the city's building and planning superintendent. She said she has seen the positive effect the designation has had in Cape Girardeau and hopes Jackson will experience the same results.

"It will open doors for opportunities that we are not yet aware of," she said. "There are so many possibilities."

Based on the city's comprehensive plan and comments from uptown merchants, Sanders said, immediate concerns to be addressed include traffic improvements, additional parking spaces and an expansion of the city's historic uptown.

Sanders and Lohr said as the city starts using the new resources and moves forward with revitalization plans, there will opportunities for public input.

Cassville, Monett, Ozark and Waynesville were also selected for the 2010 DREAM Initiative. These cities will be able to claim the designation and its benefits for three years.

cbartholomew@semissourian.com

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