There has been dramatic change in downtown Hartsville. The sale of the movie theater and the projected closing of Rambo’s Shoes might make some apprehensive about the future of our city center. I chose to view these happens as part of a natural ebb and flow. Although it can be jarring to lose a beloved business and see another restructured, these happenings come with opportunities for positive development.
In 2016 we saw more than a dozen ribbon-cutting ceremonies in downtown Hartsville. As a small city in the rural Carolinas, we are an anomaly, growing a variety of new businesses while cities of a similar size are stagnating. Our central business district nurtures entrepreneurs. As a result we’ve seen a boom in new businesses that cater to a wide variety of residents. We’re steadily filling empty storefronts and promoting activities that support small business. Regularly scheduled community events—block parties, concert series, movies and farmer’s markets—succeed in bringing people downtown to frequent our local shops.
Cosmetically, the center of Hartsville is consistently making improvements to facades and infrastructure. There are new beautification efforts: vibrant, carefully cared for planters, revitalized streets, and very soon new wayfinding signage. A lot of work is being done to make the downtown more attractive for citizens, visitors and new investments.
This effort is paying off. EdVenture children’s museum announced its plan to open a satellite location in downtown Hartsville in 2018. The site, located at 146 W. Carolina Ave, will provide area families with exhibits and programs focused on literacy, art, math and science. The City of Hartsville worked hard to secure the building for the new museum and pledged to support a portion of the operating costs. Community sponsors have also dedicated more than $1 million for building renovations; exhibit design, construction, and underwriting admission discounts for economically fragile families. The arrival of EdVenture acts as proof of a commitment to strengthening the City’s base.
A thriving downtown benefits all areas of a municipality and demonstrates the vitality of the city. All residents should make a concerted effort to support downtown business and events. Spending time and shopping around City Hall helps small business owners and boosts the greater community.
Across from EdVenture, Startsville and the GSSM Foundation offices held ribbon-cutting’s last month. I see more and more happening downtown. We should want to keep it this way, because staying static leaves no room for progression. We want interest flowing into the heart of Hartsville in order to pump life into other areas. We should try to view changes to the downtown landscape as openings for reinvention. Yes, we have seen a lot of significant changes to our city center but I’m hopeful, and always looking forward.
Suzy Moyd is the Executive Director of Main Street Hartsville