I am writing in response to the article about the deteriorating "Jackson Main Street." I was born and raised in Sutter Creek and remember the small downtown Jackson before the bypass. That was when there was gambling at the "Louvre," "cat houses" (formerly located at the site of the plaza and Bank of America), "Madame Dixie" testified and the police were indicted for graft. Well that makes me sound like a relic, but I am only a young 71. Now let's get to using our creativity and imagination for a rejuvenation of "Main Street."

Envision a cobbled or brick walking mall closed to traffic at the corner of the old Tam's building to the corner of the Wells Fargo Bar and the National Hotel. Let it be landscaped with trees, large flower pots, park benches, victorian lamp standards, a centrally located gazebo (for the chamber of commerce information center and various concerts or programs on special days). Perhaps there might even be buggy rides, flower or old fashioned candy vendors, mountain men, and victorian costumed gentry strolling for added ambience.

Lure businesses (or adapt and refurbish those in place) such as a wine tasting room, a bakery and coffee shop, eatery cafes, an up-scale book store, unique gift shops, art galleries etc. to open and create a tourist attraction. To add to the character and enjoyment, extend the shops onto the mall by building decks (over the sidewalks) to accommodate outdoor dining with tables shaded by colorful umbrellas with music for easy listening. Advertise in Sunset and other magazines geared to promoting tourist attractions.

Using the Awanee principle of development (ie: Copper Town in Copperopolis) add rental lofts or business offices (law etc.) above the shops downstairs. Now you have created more people traffic at different times of the day and week to the "Main Street." They will conduct their business and partake of the offerings of the shops below. You have now attracted locals and people from neighboring communities and not only tourists.

Yes, it can be done if you try. Form a special assessment district through the LAFCO process in your county, have fund-raisers, apply for grants and promote the community spirit to achieve your goal.