It’s a historic day for Downtown Plano.

The Texas Commisision on the Arts (TCA) recently announced the designation of seven new cultural districts, including the Downtown Plano Cultural District. Approved districts are special zones which harness the power of cultural resources to stimulate economic development and community revitalization by generating business, attracting tourists, stimulating cultural development and fostering civic pride. The outcomes of cultural districts extend beyond the arts and benefit all members of a community.

Photo by Jim Miller

“We are very excited to be recognized as an official cultural district,” said Michelle Hawkins, Arts, Culture & Heritage Manager, City of Plano. “Many people worked long and hard to create the activities and energy in Downtown Plano, and being recognized for it is such an honor. This tells us we’re on the right track!”

There are 35 designated cultural districts in Texas approved by the TCA. Cultural districts create a hub of economic activity which contribute to the community being an appealing place to live, visit and conduct business. A thriving cultural scene helps an area to prosper when consumers drawn to cultural attractions patronize other nearby businesses. This can result in the creation of new economic opportunities and jobs.

Photo by David Downs

The establishment of a cultural district provides a focal point for celebrating and strengthening a community’s cultural identity. Cultural districts highlight existing cultural amenities and work to recruit and establish new artists, cultural industries and organizations.

About The Texas Commission on the Arts

The mission of the Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) is to advance our state economically and culturally by investing in a creative Texas. TCA supports a diverse and innovative arts community in Texas, throughout the nation and internationally by providing resources to enhance economic development, arts education, cultural tourism and artist sustainability initiatives. For more information on TCA and its programs, please visit arts.texas.gov.

Want more on Downtown? Find the best restaurants, retailers, arts venues, events and much more at planoprofile.com/category/downtown-plano