The Thriving Communities program is challenging changemakers in LaFayette, Georgia, to dream big, and locals are envisioning more walkability, more public art and more star power for the city as a result.
The desire for enhancement and revitalization was in full gear last month, when representatives from Thrive Regional Partnership met with residents to help them identify the city’s cultural assets and brainstorm ways to make LaFayette a more attractive option for visitors and citizens alike.
Among the list of ideas were suggestions such as adding more sculptures and murals to the downtown area, and adding a dance, recording or pottery studio to the city’s arts district. Also on the list was creating outdoor spaces for live music events, farmers markets and movies, in addition to cultivating interesting attractions, such as a microbrewery or boutique hotel.
Some also suggested the city invest in cultivating unique spaces that would make LaFayette an area of interest for filmmakers, who are already flocking to Georgia as a result of the state’s generous tax incentives.
One of the most consistent themes throughout the myriad of suggestions was walkability, said Julie Carter, a local resident and community coordinator for the initiative.