Downtown Cape

A variety of efforts to maintain and expand the vitality of Cape Girardeau's downtown area in recent years, many of them under the umbrella of the Old Town Cape organization, appear to be working. This success is measured by surveys, and the latest survey of nonresidents visiting the downtown area showed they like the restaurants, shopping and entertainment in the area. And these visitors spend money when they come.

That and other findings are the result of a survey last year taken as part of a statewide program called the Downtown Revitalization and Economic Assistance for Missouri Initiative. Cape Girardeau was one of the first cities to be designated a DREAM city when the program started in 2006. Through the DREAM initiative, the city has received extra state funding and access to a variety of state planning services.

While coordination of downtown revitalization has been making steady progress, one area that cries out for special attention is the condition of Broadway, downtown's major traffic corridor.

Once a major shopping destination in its own right, there are sections of Broadway that have seen major improvements in recent years.

But much of Broadway is lined with empty and neglected storefronts. Some of the buildings are showing their age to the point of being hazards. Cracked and weedy sidewalks in some areas give Broadway motorists a less-than-inviting view.

The hope is that the improvements that have been made downtown, including along Broadway, will demonstrate the positive impact such upgrades can have. Given the current national economic situation, some projects to improve the area may be put off, at least until business improves.

Downtown Cape Girardeau is headed in the right direction. Let's hope the investments that already have been made will spur more improvements that will draw even more visitors to the city's most historic area.