Richmond’s economic development and Main Street director, Tony Schwab, just started his job a couple of weeks ago. He’s already of the opinion, though, that the city’s downtown area is what he calls a historic treasure, and believes it can serve as the city’s center for commercial redevelopment.

He stated that most other cities do not have the same advantages that Richmond enjoys. One of those advantages he noted is the city’s beautiful, historic center.

Although development has mostly occurred in the city’s perimeter near bypasses and interstate exits, Schwab did not see this as a deterrent to developing the downtown area. He stated that businesses operating strategically in offering products and services not found in the city’s outskirts can thrive, and noted that the city’s focal point should be downtown.

Schwab stated that in the first week after he started, he had already received two calls from individuals interested in opening businesses in downtown Richmond. One was from Richmond and the other was from out of town. He believes the interest demonstrates that entrepreneurs recognize the downtown’s potential, and intends on helping those who are interested in developing the city’s center.

Schwab also addressed the parking situation, identified as the biggest problem for the downtown area. He believes it can be solved by creating new parking areas and changing the perception of downtown parking. People may have to park away from a downtown business, but no further than they would if they shopped at the mall or some big box store on the city’s perimeter.

In addition, he stated that downtown congestion is a positive rather than a negative. With lots of ideas relative to developing the downtown, Schwab will be building consensus before going public with any details.

With a background in his family’s retail businesses, he says he has experience running a small business and can advise property owners on upgrading their facilities.

Beyond rejuvenating business in the city’s center, Schwab intends on selling the local people on their own hometown. It’s part of his job, he says.

His opinion is that citizens can find anything they would ever need right here in Richmond, so there would be no reason they would need to shop in Lexington or further.

He will work to make the city even more attractive; however, he also wants Richmond citizens to appreciate the benefits already available to them right here Richmond. If this lovely town is in your future, click Richmond, KY Homes for Sale to find that home you’ve always dreamed about.