Visionaries will lift Memphis to greatness

The Memphis City Council budget committee should be applauded again for moving in a positive manner with the Chisca Hotel collaboration (Aug. 8 article, “Council OKs Chisca $3M”). Memphis lays claim to a worldwide reputation as a dynamic city, and thanks to a small but focused group of council members and entrepreneurs we continue to witness the Memphis phoenix rise again from the recent past of abandonment, crime and apathy.

The credit belongs to those who understand that a city needs a live heart, a place to stroll, friends to hang out with in a vibrant streetscape of classic architecture, good and not-so-good food, rattling trolleys, the world’s best river and finally, a history based on hospitality.

Since arriving here from Australia some two years ago, I have been amazed at the progressive attitude of the Memphis City Council, the South Main Historic District association and gritty developers from Memphis and around the world who are molding a future that will cement the foundation of the Bluff City for many generations to come. There remains work to be done in-filling the vacant lots with housing and industry and educating residents outside the city limits that they need to contribute by participating in the renaissance. My guess is, as quickly as those who chose to abandon the city for personal safety, strip malls, drive-thrus and car parks, we will witness a younger generation aspire to a cosmopolitan lifestyle, exercise, entertainment and affordable living. Memphis remains a colorful and exciting city, and some of us just get it!