Loudon, Tennessee is getting a facelift with the help of the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development's Tennessee Downtowns Program. Selected as one of 12 communities to receive guidance, training, and a $15,000 grant, Loudon is poised for a revitalization aimed to spur economic growth, enhance livability, and preserve its historic touchstones.
According to WATE, Ray George, owner of Tic-Toc Ice Cream Parlor, voiced optimism regarding the program, saying, “I think it’s really going to help, I think it’s going to grow a little more, I think it’ll be steady, pretty much good for everybody here,” His sentiments reflect the growing dynamism in the town, where population and construction are on the rise.
State officials like TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter have expressed confidence in the initiative.“The investments we make in rural Tennessee benefit all Tennesseans, and the Tennessee Downtowns program allows us to equip some of our most rural communities with the tools needed to better develop and revitalize their downtown districts. I congratulate the 12 communities participating in the latest round of the program and look forward to seeing how their downtowns flourish and attract new growth in the years to come.”, McWhorter pointed out in a statement obtained by RFD-TV.
However, despite this economic boost, Kathy Price, who is aiding downtown development, insists that Loudon’s unique character will remain intact, “I don’t think you’ll see a drastic change in the looks, hopefully just more activity and more people; that’s what we’re looking for,” she told WVLT. Echoing her views, Mayor Jeff Harris envisions a vibrant downtown where people can "live, work and play", bolstered by new housing, shopping, and walking trails.
The careful orchestration of development is guided by the Main Street Four-Point Approach, which includes economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization. A steering committee will look at walkability, streetscapes, and parking, among other factors, to ensure Loudon's vision materializes effectively. The end goal is to attract more tourism and maintain the community's tight-knit spirit while simultaneously accommodating growth, a challenge that civic leaders are ready to embrace.
