There was much discussion around cultural and non-cultural desired outcomes for downtown. We attempted to direct this last meeting directly to arts/culture. We found it difficult due to the fact that success in cultural programming is dependent on fixing some of the problems with downtown.

We decided it was important to deal with both:

1. Infrastructure
2. Arts / Cultural Programs and Venue

Some of the Infrastructure that needs improving:

• Restoration of Riverbank Park
• A solution to the downtown homeless population
• Change in perception that downtown is unsafe
• Navigation - all streets made 2-way
• Parking - convenience / cost
• Arts / Cultural Programming / Venues
• Strengthen downtown arts/cultural agencies
• Marketing of venues and programs
• More restaurants/cafes
• Outdoor eating / drinking
• Strengthening of downtown events / festivals
• Strengthen and increase opportunities for youth involvement

Ideas for immediate action (next 6 - 18 months)

• Create a Riverbank Park task force
• Hire a marketing person for Greater Flint Arts Council who would have responsibility
  for marketing downtown venues and events, forge collaborations and take on public relations duties
• Form a partnership with Carriage Town Ministries to explore alternatives to homeless
  loitering
• Fund a collaborative security program that places security guards at events
  

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