DREAM initiative is having important impact in Cape

By Jason Crowell

In September 2006, the governor made the announcement that Cape Girardeau would be one of 10 Missouri cities that year to receive technical and financial assistance from the state to redevelop their downtown areas under the Downtown Revitalization Economic Assistance for Missouri (DREAM) initiative.

When the project was announced, I expressed my excitement about the opportunities the community would have to efficiently and effectively complete downtown-renewal projects. Cape Girardeau in now more than a year into the initiative, and the progress the community has already made is impressive.

DREAM has improved communication between the city and state entities. Cape Girardeau city government, Old Town Cape and the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, as well as various other groups, have been working together on the future of downtown development.

Citizens and business owners are encouraged to provide input in this ongoing process.

The city is nearing the completion of a comprehensive downtown strategic plan. The comprehensive downtown strategic plan will be particularly useful, thanks to the help of the urban/redevelopment planning firm Peckham Guyton Albers & Viets Inc. Increased access to this professional resource is one of the benefits of the DREAM initiative.

The DREAM initiative has also provided assistance for specific projects in the community.

This spring, Cape Girardeau will hold a storytelling festival, which will include four of the nation's best storytellers. This event is receiving project assistance through the DREAM initiative.

The program has also enabled the Fountain Street project to receive financial assistance, and this will be a vital aspect of the revitalization of the Good Hope area.

Another new project that is receiving aid is Southeast Missouri's Children Museum, which will provide exciting and educational opportunities for children in the community. These programs are creating a positive buzz that is reflected through local and state media, letting more people know about the good things Cape Girardeau has to offer.

The DREAM initiative allows Cape Girardeau to have access to important resources, but a lot of the effort to receive these resources comes from the dedication of community members.

The status as a DREAM initiative city lasts for three years, so I am looking forward to seeing the revitalization efforts continue. I will continue to keep you informed on the important developments improving our community.

Jason Crowell of Cape Girardeau represents the 27th District in the Missouri Senate.