Bledsoe County, north of Chattanooga, is widely regarded by its residents as one of the most beautiful spots in Tennessee. They can be forgiven that conceit. Over the years, numerous guide book authors and others who have visited the area confirm that opinion. Unfortunately, downtown Pikeville, the county seat and once an attractive and bustling commercial, civic and social hub, is rarely included in that description. Like many downtowns across the United States, it has fallen upon difficult times in recent years. That, it seems, is about to change.
Pikeville recently was chosen to participate in “Tennessee Downtowns,” designed to give new life to older and often historically significant small-town commercial districts. The program brings Tennessee Economic and Community Development officials and local residents together to draft a blueprint to revitalize the central business district. The work will require a considerable investment of time but the effort should be beneficial. When planning is completed, project grants usually follow.
Pikeville already has begun the work of revitalization. In the last few years, the community has updated downtown streets and sidewalks and added park benches, a town clock, decorative refuse receptacles and street lamps to the area. Trees and plantings now line Main Street, and parking areas have been redesigned and updated. Once implemented, the “Tennessee Downtowns” program will build on that foundation.
Downtown redevelopment and revitalization – as Chattanoogans should well know – is neither a simple nor a quick task. It requires commitment from public officials and private citizens as well as a willingness to invest significant funds in the short term to promote long-term benefits. Both are necessary to maximize a community’s resources and to leverage state assistance to build an attractive and sustainable downtown.
Pikeville and its residents are ready to build on current momentum. They’ve already started the revitalization process and are eager to work with state officials to create a revitalization plan. The state has recognized that commitment and honored that willingness to work by choosing the community as one of only 12 towns, including nearby Athens and Rockwood, to participate in the upcoming “Tennessee Downtowns” program.
The communities chosen by economic development officials are unlikely to see an immediate benefit from participation in the state program, but that should not be the goal. Long-term growth in downtown areas is far more desirable. The “Tennessee Downtowns” program should help bring that positive change to downtown Pikeville and other participating cities.