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1.13 Recruit business owners and patrons
alike to launch a “Love your Local Businesses” campaign What:
Ideas include the following:
>> Invite local artists to create a Buy Local logo, and create stickers for businesses to give out to customers. >> Work with merchants to post hours and menus on their websites and optimize their search results to maximize web traffic or compile menus on a single website, such as MenusOfMacon.com. >> Encourage more consistent hours in Mercer Village for greater predictability for people interested in visiting for lunch or dinner year-round; encourage all neighbors to do their part and show their support for local businesses. >> Encourage customers to write detailed reviews on Yelp or another online platform to help entice visitors or passersby on the Interstate to stop for a bite to eat in the Corridor.
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1.14 Install more public art throughout the Corridor
What: The possibilities for public art are limitless! Some ideas, many of which you suggested, include: >> Motion-activated audio artworks >> Chalkboard walls that invite community members to engage and share, like artist Candy Chang’s “Before I Die…” walls >> Murals >> Installations >> Bright orange College Hill swirls and painted in key locations throughout the Corridor >> Poetry on posts along Ocmulgee River >> Festive lights in alleys or along porches, fences and yards. Why: Public art celebrates local art and culture, which in turn fosters community and collective identity. It also creates buzz and enhances safety through increased visibility and activity.
Why: A local businesses campaign will help support existing businesses and help foster an environment friendly to local businesses, which in turn could attract additional businesses to the Corridor.
(Top) Public art that invites interaction by Candy Chang. (Bottom) Alley lit with decorative lights.
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Refresh | Master Plan update