Business Retention and Development Committee Agenda and Packet 2012 12 03

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To: City Council From:Business Retention and Development Committee RE:Main Street Patio Project Councilors, The Business Retention and Development Committee of City Council (BRaD) supports the development of new, seasonal patios for Historic Downtown Main Street. We find that the patios have benefited downtown and our entire community in two ways: First, the patios create an amenity for all of Louisville. The transformation of Main Street in May heralds the beginning of our “summer season” and transforms the downtown streetscape with color, flowers and a vibrancy that is welcoming to all –diners and shoppers alike. Second, the patios have proven to be a successful economic engine for Louisville. When the patios first were installed on May 21, 2009 (with the generous help –financial and labor of Home Depot), Senior T’s was for sale, there was no Lucky Pie or Sweet Cow, no Zucca, Cactus Wheel/La Revolucion, or Lulu’s. No “First Fridays” or much of an art scene downtown either. The Waterloo and The Empire Restaurant and Lounge were going into only their second summer and their long-term successwasby no means certain. The patios transformed downtown and have contributed mightily to a vibrant shopping, dining and entertainment district in historic downtown. Louisville is now the envy of our neighbors and the Front Range and receives accolades from every media outlet in the County. The Downtown Business Association, with their initial investment of time, labor and money has shown us all what the patios can bring to our community. We support the City building upon the success of the original patios (which are past their useful life) to ensure that our downtown remains vibrant, dynamic, and attractive to our residents and visitors alike. Sincerely, Ron Sackett Chairman, Business Retention and Development Committee