Myrtle Beach Nurtures Growth of Arts & Innovation District
New businesses and developments are revitalizing downtown Myrtle Beach
In a push for growth and economic development, the city of Myrtle Beach has initiated several new projects in its Arts & Innovation District. This move is expected to bring in new businesses to the central region and promote local culture, according to city spokesperson Mark Kruea.
Projects in Pipeline
New constructions across Broadway Street and the rise of new businesses are part of this rejuvenation process which city leaders have been planning for over a decade. “Over the next three or four years, you’ll see a whole lot of change,” said Kruea. “We’ve got a stormwater pond being built on Broadway Street, underground conduits being laid for utilities, and streetscape work starting on 9th Avenue North and downtown — it’s about to explode downtown.”
Excitement and Anticipation
The city spokesperson also shared the excitement of seeing their vision come to life and the anticipation felt by the public. “They could see that vision back when we rolled it out a year and a half ago,” he observed. Furthermore, Le Manna International Bakery which opened recently, is the latest in a string of local businesses making their mark on downtown Myrtle Beach.
Future Plans
Despite these positive growth trends, there are still areas that require attention according to city officials. Devin Parks, Director of Economic Development for Myrtle Beach, expressed his wish for a residential uplift. He stated, “As we continue to redevelop the Arts district, I’d love to see some more residential contributions. We want to highlight the vibrant culture here in Myrtle Beach.”
Creating a Neighborhood Culture
Lisa Lee, co-owner of the upcoming local hotspot, The Tasting Room on Ninth, shared her joy about the area’s revitalization. “The fact that they have decided to revitalize this area, we couldn’t be more thrilled,” she said. “Part of being in this downtown community is becoming a neighborhood spot where locals gather. We want our space to feel like home.”
What to Expect Next?
City leaders have confirmed that more construction work will be seen in the downtown area, with costs estimated at around $32 million. The future of Myrtle Beach’s Arts and Innovation district looks promising as city leaders continue to make plans and bring them to life, enhancing the local culture and economic landscape.
In Conclusion
The city of Myrtle Beach is showing strong commitment to revitalizing its Arts & Innovation District, welcoming new business while also planning for further development. The ongoing transformation is expected to bring numerous benefits to the area, including increased business activity, employment opportunities, residential offerings, and a vibrant neighborhood culture.
Reporting for Here News Network, this is Here News.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
