Utica City Council brainstorms theme districts
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UTICA, N.Y. -- A state law passed six years ago is finally being taken advantage of. It encourages cities to create theme districts categorized by art, entertainment, education, culture and business.
Utica heard about the legislation, and is one of the first upstate cities to jump on board. Utica common council members say theme districts are a formula for success. Not only could they boost morale, but they would increase tourism.
Council members have already begun talking about their ideas, including an arts, brewery, and international district. They say the designation of these districts will highlight many of the hidden gems in Utica.
"This is just really going to compound the wonderful people and places that we have here. No one knows about them yet, we're going to tell them," said Joseph Marino, (D) Utica Common Councilman.
The next meeting will be in two weeks. In that time, council members and city officials will be reaching out to the community and local businesses for feedback and ideas.