Many cities are jumping on board to trade in vacant lots and abandoned buildings downtown.

If there were a buzzword for 2018, I would say it's "downtown." Anywhere I go, I find myself wanting to visit downtown. If it's in small town, I want to see the historic buildings, the character the town, being utilized in a brand new way. If it's in a big city, I want to see innovative ideas and activities within walking distance. To me, the pulse is happening in downtown in 2018.

Apparently I'm not alone.

Plenty of cities and towns are jumping on board with "urban renewal." This is a term (I believe coined by Thrillist) used to describe the revitalization of the hearts of these cities. No more abandoned buildings or vacant lots... It's all about turning them into something new like a bar, restaurant, gallery, etc.

Thrillist recently compiled a list of "8 Cities Making Big Improvements in 2018."

On that list was Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The city is revitalizing the Mid-City neighborhood. Many people have been moving to the area and there are several attractions already in place, but Thrillist said it lacks a nucleus. That's set to change with the opening of Electric Depot.

The website describes Electric Depot as follows...

The unique social space, a revitalization of the old Entergy power plant, will include 16 1-bedroom apartments, bowling, live music, a brewery, a full-service restaurant and bar and space for private events, meetings, parties.

It's a $20 million project, but it looks amazing! It's got me wanting to take a road trip as soon as that baby opens its doors. And think of the possibilities for fans during football season.

Do you think somewhere in the Ark-La-Tex could use a little "urban renewal"? Tell us your ideas in the comments below.

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