Josh Markham presenting First Impressions Tour assessment at Clarksville Chamber of Commerce
The Center for Community and Economic Development at the University of Central Arkansas presented an assessment report based on a First Impressions Tour recently completed in Clarksville, Arkansas.
Over the past several months, the Center has worked in Clarksville to assess the physical, social and economic infrastructure of the community from the perspective of an individual completely new to the city.
“The First Impressions Tour was a highly effective tool in helping our citizens discover how to better market their community. It allows residents the opportunity to walk in the shoes of a visitor and to understand how to enhance and really maximize an outsider’s overall experience while visiting their community,” said Travis Stephens, executive director, Clarksville Chamber of Commerce.
The findings were presented to Clarksville Chamber of Commerce membership, as well as elected officials, local school administrators and business owners who attended the meeting held at the University of the Ozarks in Clarksville.
“A First Impressions Tour is an excellent starting point for communities to begin future development efforts,” said Josh Markham, assistant director, Center for Community and Economic Development. “By giving communities an honest and clear look at unique assets and opportunities to improve, we have found that the assessment is an easy way for communities to gain some momentum for long term initiatives.”
ABOUT CENTER FOR COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Center for Community and Economic Development is a part of UCA’s Division of Outreach and Community Engagement. The Center’s mission is to have a positive impact on communities by equipping leaders with economic tools and resources, building consensus to achieve community goals, and bringing UCA resources and communities together.
For more information, please contact Josh Markham at 501-450-3460 or at joshm@uca.edu
– 30 –
