The Kansas CW | Wichita's Old Town Named a Top Neighborhood
Member Center:
By Brian Heap (WICHITA, Kan.)
Old Town Wichita has been named one of the Top 10 Great Neighborhoods For 2008, according to a list released Wednesday, October 8, 2008 by the American Planning Association (APA).
In making the announcement, the APA said it chose Old Town because of Wichita's bold vision and astute and innovative planning that transformed a once dilapidated warehouse area into a thriving business district.
"We are thrilled and honored to receive such a prestigious designation," said Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer at a morning news conference. "This designation demonstrates how careful planning, collaboration and vision can come together to create great places." Brewer and other dignitaries, including former mayor Bob Knight , received plaques from the APA.
The city says it will celebrate the Old Town distinction with a party this Friday, October 10, 2008, at the Old Town Square. The event, which runs from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., will include live music as well as food samplings from some of the restaurants in the business district.
Officials also announced plans for the release of a new book about the history of Old Town Wichita. The release date of the book has not yet been announced. For more information about obtaining a copy of the book, visit www.oldtownbook.com.
The nine other cities that were named to the 2008 APA Great Neighborhoods list are: Echo Park, Los Angeles, CA; Greater Park Hill, Denver, CO; North End, Boise ID; Downtown Salem, Salem, MA; Charles Village, Baltimore, MD; Greater University Hill, Syracuse, NY; Village of Mariemont, Mariemont, OH; Society Hill, Philadelphia, PA; and Downtown Sheridan, Sheridan, WY.
