We've been coming to Twisp for about 18 years, and it seemed like nothing much changed for the first 10 years or so. The TwispWorks Campus was acquired in 2008, and it eventually became a big catalyst for change in town. The once unsightly former forest service site is now an inviting local hub for arts, education and business.
Did you know, Twisp is also a member of the Washington State Creative Arts District program, making it eligible for grants and other arts support.
In fact, Twisp is generally successful in acquiring funding for various public works projects, and recently won the largest ever Complete Streets Grant from the state.
Glover Street is about to get started on a 3 million dollar makeover, with new sidewalks, awnings, pavement and underground utility lines. That will make for a chaotic and noisy summer that no one is looking forward to, especially the businesses on Glover Street.
Small business come and go, especially restaurants. Failure is assured if the locals don't embrace your business, and the locals here can be fickle. The restaurants that survive are the ones that keep consistent hours and give good value. The nearest fast food outlet is still 40 miles away, but a gourmet hamburger place just opened that seems to be immensely popular, judging by the cars in front.
New houses are popping up all over town, and a large apartment complex is going up behind the grocery store, in what was once an old orchard. Down by the city park, a retirement/nursing home facility called Jamie's Place is under construction, along with a co-housing project.
Down here in our little backwater neighborhood, I'm happy for the lack of "revitalization." The sun still comes up behind Mill Hill, and we look across the the river at a view so far devoid of construction.
You would never know there is a town outside the back door. All we can do is enjoy what we have, while we have it.
No comments:
Post a Comment