B EAUTIFICATION P ROJECT By : Regan Alford

P ROJECT F OCUS Z ONE Harris Riverfront Park

P ROPOSAL The idea for this project is to beautify the riverfront and attract new business and tourism to the area. This includes improving certain areas of the park. Such as: The floodwall Playground Walkways Seating

N EEDED P ARTNERSHIPS Marshall University School of Art Local Contractors Local Supplies and Business Owners

M ARSHALL U NIVERSITY S CHOOL OF A RT The school of art could assist the project in more than one aspect. They could contribute their assistance in paint the mural on the flood wall along with designing the benches/ seating for the area.

L OCAL C ONTRACTORS These contractors could be used to develop a layout for the project including the new seating and buildings (amphitheater/ stage)

L OCAL B USINESSES AND S UPPLIERS These businesses could give their supplies or funds to help the project such as donating lighting, toilets, sinks, etc. to help the riverfront look its best.

C OST Millions of dollars, but put into play over a long period of time.

F UNDING TIF’s : economic development project area or district that is developed through funding created by increased property taxes Small Cities Block Grants : Provides federal funds for community and economic development projects throughout the state Tourism Destination Development Tax Credit : This credit allows a community the opportunity to create tourism as long as they 1) Attract at least 25% of its annual visitors from outside the state; 2) Have approved costs in excess of $1 million; 3) Have significant and positive economic impact on the state, considering, among other factors, the extent to which the project will compete directly with or complement existing tourism attractions, and the amount by which increased tax revenues will exceed the credit given; 4) Produce sufficient revenues and public demand to be operating and open to the public for a minimum of 100 days per year; and 5) Provide additional employment opportunities in the state.