Bowditch held its 5th Annual Economic Development Summit: Transforming Main Street on November 14 at the AC Hotel, keynoted by Bo Menkiti, founder and chief executive officer of the Menkiti Group.
Menkiti's company has been buying property in downtown Worcester, focusing on the Theatre District. His keynote speech discussed the evolution of his business and how the company looks at Worcester and its strategic location.
Says the article:
He said great cities are made up of great neighborhoods driven by three factors: mixed-income housing, a thriving commercial corridor that creates jobs and recycles dollars back into the community, and a sense of vibrant culture.
He said downtown Worcester's keys to success will depend on several factors. The city must continue to push the idea of an 18-hour downtown, and needs to think of ways to retain the city's robust population of college students after they graduate. He said the city should explore ways to connect downtown to other neighborhoods, and has to engage small businesses. They provide the authenticity and "coolness" factor that makes a neighborhood attractive to a younger, educated demographic.
Continue reading "Menkiti Group founder says Worcester's 'Underdog' complex a draw to investors" on the Worcester Telegram website.