When Going Gets Tough, Struggling Small Towns Get Creative

Across America, small towns are struggling to get by economically as many residents move out and businesses follow. But some small towns are employing some creative ideas -- from giant killer bee statues to storytelling festivals -- to stay afloat.

1 minute read

December 23, 2006, 7:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg

"Most small towns are still struggling, as a tour of boarded-up Main Streets and closed John Deere dealerships in the rural heartland will show. 'Outmigration' has drained their populations over the past century....Some surviving small towns have simply become bedroom communities for large cities, and have lost their character. But others deeper in the boondocks remain determined to beat off the doomsayers with creative ideas..."

"Local officials also have to realise that downtowns have changed for ever. Clothing and hardware stores will never return to the town centre. Rather restaurants and bars, government offices and even private houses should be given a place near Main Street. State aid for small entrepreneurs also helps."

Thanks to Michael

FULL STORY: America the creative

Tuesday, December 19, 2006 in The Economist

Community / Economic Development United States

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