Some efforts have worked. Others returned to drawing-boards. But organizations such as Abilene Clean and Proud and community-minded donors have helped make downtown inviting. Even many business owners, the vast majority of whom operate away from downtown, recognize that people get their impressions of Abilene at the entrances to and within the inner city. Some, of course, criticize expenditures, particularly of tax money, in making downtown more attractive and more buoyant.
Opposition usually comes when competitive businesses locate downtown with the help of the community.
In the long run, however, all of the city benefits. Downtown never again will become a retail beehive. Of course, without the dedication of the anonymous donor, the Grace Cultural Center, art museums, Paramount Theater and the earlyday hotel now being renovated at North Second and Cypress would not have been possible. If voters approve next month, a new library will revitalize and strengthen the downtown arts district even further. The district offers a delightful Artwalk opportunity between the Civic Center and the old railroad passenger station, restored in vintage character for use of the Visitors Bureau and the Cultural Affairs Council.