How cool is it to live in one of the Top 50 Cool Cities in the US?? Just ask anyone in the
Greater Grand Rapids area. They can tell you. If you haven't heard about the " Rise of the
Creative Class," you better get tuned in.
"Rise of the Creative Class" a concept and book by Richard Florida in which he includes
Western Michigan and Grand Rapids as one of the Top 50 Cool Cities of the future. He
predicts these urban centers, like ours, will draw young professionals who will change our
area by refusing to accept the old status quo and forge new communities with growth in the
technical fields, a strong gay community, and lots of creative juice for a revved up economy
and urban life style.
Gov. Jennifer Granhom urged her constituents in key Michigan cities to engage in task
forces to create the atmosphere required for a "cool city" status back in 2003. In 2004
she awarded 20 cities, including Grand Rapids up to $100,000 in grant money to create
the growth necessary to draw the young people who will be living this lifestyle.
Round the clock entertainment, jobs in the arts & the creative business sector, plus boutique
restaurants and affordable inner city housing are just a few of the requirements needed for
a "cool city" to flourish.
The objective is to keep talented young people here, instead of the flight of our young,
educated professionals to the large metropolises where jobs and night life beckons.
This will be good for our city and our property values. A growing, thriving inner city is a draw
for start up businesses, jobs, entertainment, tourists, and all the things that make life here in
Grand Rapids a wonderful place to live. We are excited to be part of this "cool city" growth.
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Copyright by Terry Westbrook 2008
Contact me: 1-888-240-1968 x 0 toll free
Website url: Terry Westbrook.com
Email: terry@TerryWestbrook.com
Westbrook Realty
Photo by Bonnie Westbrook
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The authors of the this blog write about Grand Rapids Real Estate,
the Greater Grand Rapids MI area, and what it is like to live in
West Michigan. We believe: Grand Rapids is a Great Place to Live!
Westbrook Realty Grand Rapids MI Real Estate
Contact Terry 616-292-7263
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Terry, I had not heard of this book! But, I do have great anticipation and excitement about the future of Grand Rapids, Michigan. There's a palpable sense of progress here & I'm thankful to live in a city which is 'cool' in more ways than one.
Terry, I'm back. Not only am I bookmarking this post...I'm going to look for that book! Thanks for the link.
Lola:Thanks for stopping by glad you found it informative.