Can we save downtown? Revitalization through the arts: Developing a community cultural plan for North Little Rock, Arkansas

Increasing violence and relocation of businesses have caused downtown North Little Rock, Arkansas, to fall into disarray and disrepair. In recent months, however, numerous structures have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places, several non-profit groups have been formed in hopes of bringing businesses back to the area and reviving the city, and the city recently voted for a multi-million dollar downtown revitalization effort. These efforts by the town's mayor and city council, have been more for financial reasons rather than for providing the city with the best solution for its needs. This thesis outlines North Little Rock's tumultuous beginnings, outlines its impending problems, provides studies of other towns that have dealt with similar problems, and provides a framework from which the city can add the arts to its current revitalization efforts. It concludes with a proposal that North Little Rock can follow to pursue a cultural life for its community.