The College Community as a Resource

I believe that the key to improving the Roanoke scene might rely in increased involvement of the surrounding college communities. At first glance, Roanoke City does not appear to be a college town. In fact, it is not, but you might find it surprising that the Roanoke area is surrounded by 60,000 college students. Roanoke doesn’t contain the amenities, the spirit, and the attractions that a city of its kind should. The reasons for this are numerous, and the solutions limited. In my first analysis I identify three conditions that make a city conducive to an exciting professional and academic environment. That is, atmosphere, accessibility, and involvement; the first of which I consider in the post.

I need also admit that I make several assumptions. If those assumptions appear misguided or unjustified please, reader, expose my errors. My goal is not to rant and criticize the city’s direction, but to properly analyze our conditions and assess potential solutions.

Roanoke is a cool town with more potential, I believe, than the many think it has. The downtown district is a collection of historic buildings, several of which have been updated to the standards of the modern era. It includes a new illustrious art museum and several galleries supporting it, beautiful outdoor scenery and amenities, and a thriving young professional scene striving to enhance the Star City experience. Yet it is still struggling with the economic infrastructure required to support the city’s endeavors. Mixone6 has attracted numerous bands, but has had to dismiss them due to the lack of attendence. Hidden gems like Trio and Table 50 have problems because they are hidden behind the market stalls. The city, of course, does not deny these problems: Downtown Roanoke, Inc. has proposed a revitalization plan for the farmer’s market and market building. The city has isolated deteriorating buildings in the South Jefferson district for commercial development and revitalization. Downtown living is the priority of many local developers and it has thus far been met with significant success.

Roanoke could experience the economic stimulus for which it has been waiting by raising the awareness of the city’s events in the college communities. College students are the most active, creative, and ambitious people. If, some how, we attract them to local events, amenities, and opportunities, we might see an increase in the retainment of young college grads in the future. For now we could increase attendence to local music and entertainment events with their help, which will provide a more exciting and social downtown environment. Students may spend more time shopping in the area, which could increase the demand for more shopping opportunities.

I will continue to discuss these issues in the future, but I think we should start taking the college community into serious consideration as a resource for the future of Roanoke.