Pocatello used as model for revitalizing downtown

The Idaho Department of Commerce is taking a downtown revitalization program through the state, and is using a local city as a model main street.

Those running the workshop said they are using Pocatello because the gate city is a great example. It has already had success turning it’s old town area from a negative into an asset.

“We’ve been there, we’ve done it. And we’re continuing to do main street work,” Old Town Executive Director Stephanie Palagi said.

Palagi said having a healthy downtown is vital to every local community.

“From volunteerism, to economic development, to community development, when your downtown is strong, we can guarantee the rest of your community is just as strong,” Palagi said.

Kathy La Plante with the National Main Street Center is running the workshops, and has a long list of why communities should care about downtown.

“Really it’s an investment that we all need to make because downtowns are such an integral part of our community,” La Plante said.

La Plante said she hopes other local communities get a few ideas from the gate city.

“It’s a clean downtown, the businesses look good, the buildings look good. It’s inviting to be out on the sidewalks. And that’s an important lesson for any downtown to learn from,” La Plante said.