Embedded Files
What is the problem being addressed?
After major industry and factory jobs left the USA in the 1980s Helena-West Helena faced a major economic decline. The two separate cities collapsed and merged into one city to stay afloat.
What was the solution?
- Action: To address this problem the city created the “Delta Bridge Program”. The goal of this plan was to create an interconnected network that included community members, businesses, and the local government to complete the construction of a bridge, an improved health center and to expand other physical falcilities in the county. The network was designed so that different sectors could easily contact and collaborate with each other. One of the major steps taken was to survey and assess the needs of the community to indicate what areas needed to be focused on.
- People: The city collaborated with local business and contractors to undergo the bridge building project. This effort called on funds from different sectors and local business tried to assist in the effort with funds or labor.
- Resources: local businesses and other athourites consolidated resources with the development authority to allow the process to work top down.
How can this be applied to Meadville?
This strategy is relevant to Meadville as it is similar in structure to what the local group My Meadville is doing. Properly assessing community needs and building strong and effective networks are an important part of maintaining and improving a city. When determining what the cities next major project is keeping community stakeholders needs in mind could be valuable for gaining support.
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