Author: Jonathan Barton
Planning Unit: Community & Economic Development (CEDIK)
Major Program: Economic Development
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
The Harlan County fiscal court developed a sound proposal and received $60,000 in funding to implement a county wide investment program to improve downtown wayfinding coupled with investments improving the accessibility of sidewalks in a number of downtowns. Their new “Where the Sidewalk Begins” plan, informed by their First Impressions report, Business Retention and Expansion efforts, and numerous public engagement events, results in Harlan County’s downtown spaces being more inclusive and accessible ultimately improving the experience for both residents and visitors. This collaborative effort represents a substantial effort to boost investment opportunities in multiple downtown spaces and buildings that have been under utilized over recent years. While the sidewalk enhancements are just beginning the capacity to take on future efforts have been amplified by effective collaboration on this project.