Sunday, July 10, 2022

OUACHITA RIVER VALLEY RENAISSANCE: A 21ST CENTURY AWAKENING OF CULTURE AND BUSINESS

The recovery from the Great Flood of 2016 gave rise to a period of community rebirth. Officials worked on flood mitigation strategies, housing, infrastructure, economic recovery, health, and natural and cultural resources. With the rebuilding underway, public meetings were held and people’s concerns and ideas were heard. In those early days of the recovery, you could sense the call to action for change. That sense of urgency still exists. 

The political landscaped also changed during this period. And people were noticeably more interested in cultural happenings and civic events. The private and public sector continued to invest in the community. Progress was being made. In August 2020, real estate developer and State Representative Michael Echols all but declared a Renaissance. 

Public art, poetry readings, photography, live musical performances, freedom of speech exercises, and being different are now a permanent part of our cloth. We can never go back.

Beginning in 2020, the region experienced a prolonged period of adversity that threatened all the progress made. The community was impacted but our resilience won. Despite the pandemic, hurricanes, tornadoes, flash flooding, and a winter storm, public and private investments continue. All things cultural are flourishing.

The community investments in infrastructure, economic development and culture continue at a never-before-seen tempo. Our leaders understand the linkage between business and culture, and they are leveraging.

People will visit our region to experience the art, food, wineries, cultural happenings and great outdoors. Remote workers and businesses will be attracted here for all the afore mentioned amenities. 

The culture - business blend model is spreading in the Ouachita River Valley. Be looking for investment opportunities. 


Monroe-West Monroe Area

Source: Local knowledge

                                                                                                                         ©2022 Tom Malmay

Tom M.

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