FIRM TARGETS DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION

The financial services firm of Edward D. Jones & Co., which has two branches in Cape Girardeau, has kicked off a nationwide competition to support downtown revitalization projects.

"Main Street revitalization projects can return the lifeblood to downtown areas," said Robert N. Etherton, investment representative with offices at 215 N. Sprigg. "I would like to see Cape Girardeau enter this competition,"

Thirty communities will be selected to receive matching grants for memberships in the National Main Street Network, a clearinghouse for revitalization programs in historic downtown and neighborhood commercial areas.

"Out of those 30 communities, five will be selected for additional matching grants to help stimulate economic development within the context of historic preservation," said Etherton.

"I would strongly urge Cape Girardeau to enter this competition," he said.

Applications, available at Etherton's office, must be submitted by June 25.

Applicants will be judged on public and private support for exploring revitalization options and broad-based community awareness of and support for the downtown area.

"The judges will also look for a reasonable core of historic and traditional commercial buildings in the downtown area," said Etherton.

National Main Street Center staff members will spend two days in the top five communities selected.

"These visitors will meet with business and property owners, city officials, community leaders and organizations to determine the downtown's needs and to explore revitalization options," added Etherton.

The representatives will tour the downtown area and make public presentations of observations and recommendations.

The National Main Street Center was created in 1980 to help communities preserve their downtown areas. The organization works in cities and towns of all sizes.