Broadway Streetscape Improvements

Urban revitalization projects have a unique way of bringing communities together, bonded by a common cause to become better than what was. A singular, palpable design gesture can inspire change and reinvigorate a city’s innate character. Improvements are tangible. In many cases they are immediately recognizable. The intangibles offer the greatest return, however, providing an economic platform for continual investment in the community.
With construction completed in only six months, improvements to Broadway’s streetscape afforded such an opportunity for the residents and businesses of Cape Girardeau, Mo. In the heart of the city’s historic downtown district, beautification of this 9-block stretch of corridor did more than improve aesthetics. It spurred the development of six new small businesses during the construction period, as well as additional businesses in the adjacent areas. More than 10 building improvements along the corridor were completed during that time, and countless more since its completion. These improvements became an accelerator for the corridor, and established a new sense of pride for the community.