Module3: Downtown Development Assignment
One of the dominant strategies in downtown development is to draw visitors (and/or residents) into the city. Cities have used a predictable playbook: constructing convention centers, stadiums, festival malls, etc. and using financial inducements (usually tax breaks) to draw in business partners. Examples from Memphis include Cook Convention Center, Redbirds/Forum, and Crosstown Concourse.
- Do you think this strategy has benefitted Memphis and which Memphians have or have not benefitted?
- Has it been effective in drawing visitors and/or residents? Why or why not?
- If you don’t live in Memphis, consider some examples of downtown development in your area and apply these questions. Please provide examples and evidence from the readings and films to support your arguments.