Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today
GRAND ISLAND — Grand Island Creative District was recently named a certified Nebraska Creative District and was awarded a $10,000 Nebraska Arts Council Certification Grant.
The Nebraska Creative District Program utilizes the arts as an economic driver to support communities in Nebraska by telling their stories and elevating the value of the arts. The Grand Island Creative District is a partnership between the 4th Street Business Improvement District, the Railside Business Improvement District, the City of Grand Island, the Multicultural Coalition, and the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation.
Greater Grand Island Community Foundation serves as the District Administrator for the Creative District.
The Grand Island Creative District includes the Railside Business Improvement District and the 4th Street Business Improvement District as boundaries.
With this new designation, the District plans to bring more people to the area, not only from within Grand Island but also from within the state. Projects include bringing more events to the area to celebrate various arts, including music, dancing, and graphic arts.
Grand Island Creative Districts is also working to expand the Bridge Concert between Railside and 4th Street in coordination with Hear Grand Island / Welcoming Week. Additionally, there are plans to bring a Story of Us to the district and give different insights into what all is to offer in our district and city.
The Story of Us will spotlight different individuals throughout the district to emphasize what they do personally or through their business.
In 2020, the Nebraska State Legislature passed a bill to create the Creative Districts program.
The program promotes and supports economic development and placemaking opportunities in communities dedicated to growing their arts-related economic sectors. Nebraska Creative Districts must submit a letter of interest, an Eligibility Assessment, and a Strategic Plan as part of the approval process.
Goals can include attracting artists and creative enterprises, encouraging business and job development, establishing the district as a tourist destination, preserving and reusing historic buildings, and promoting the district’s cultural and historical heritage. For more information about the Creative District program, please visit the Nebraska Arts Council website at www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov/explore/creative-districts/ or call the office at 402-595-2122.
