Did you ever wonder why geese fly in a “V” formation? We can project all sorts of human motivations, but it really comes down to simple aerodynamics. Geese fly in a “V” formation because the cumulative load of air resistance over a 3,000-mile migration is more than one goose can overcome.
If the group did not assume that flight formation, then none of them would reach the destination. The lead goose at the point of the “V”, has the hardest job, breaking the lead edge of the slipstream, making it easier for each goose to the right and left to maintain the speed necessary to reach the winter feeding grounds. Every so often, the lead goose relinquishes the leadership position so that another can do the heavier work.
By maintaining this formation, sharing leadership and flying toward the same destination, the entire community of geese safely reaches the feeding grounds that will sustain it through the winter. Without that cooperation, none of them could reach that destination and many of them would die, stranded in the midlands where winters are harsh and food is scarce.
Such is the challenge presented to a business community whose goal is to revitalize itself. Such a task is far more demanding than any one business, local government or non-profit can do alone. If the local residents, property owners and business operators do not share that common goal and are not fully committed to re-structuring the town’s economic environment, success is doubtful.
On the other hand, when the community’s vision, passion and energy come together, revitalization of the commercial district is almost assured.
The most important ingredient is the commitment to a common vision.
That is, what does a revitalized town look like?
This is a very important issue for downtown Puyallup. There is a big difference between maintaining a bedroom community on the outskirts of a metropolitan area and a reviving rural town that retains its own culture, history and independent attitude. Revitalizing historic business district means making preservation of every building a very high priority. It means that the disruption of new construction is tolerated. It means that the business district is supported day-to-day by a surrounding community who buys locally at every opportunity.
But most importantly, it means that the business community and the city work together to create an environment where people want to do business, shop, dine, and relax in a town they can take pride in.
Though many see revitalization as dependent on funding, the key element is really the passion of a committed community with focused vision and energy to make a better place to live. When a community’s vision and energy are focused on a common goal, money seems to find its way into the pipeline.
Look at the situation from the point of view of a potential investor.
Who would risk investment in a town that is fraught with ambivalence, disparate vision and petty bickering?
Bottom line: A passionless effort that presents disorganized efforts laced with conflict rarely attracts financial support or involvement from wise investors. On the other hand, when positive energy soaks into the fabric of the community, projects seem to absorb funds from many sources.
Puyallup has a rich history and established culture. People here care intensely about their community and are willing to work to make it the best possible city in which to do business and raise a family.
What is your vision for a revitalized downtown?
How can you work with the rest of the community to make that vision reality?
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