A few weeks ago I attended part of CreateHere's third Spring Board class graduation. As members of the first class, two of my classmates and I came to show our support for the program and see what was going on with the newest batch of SpringBoarders. While there, I spoke with a young out of town intern about the Main Street transformation and what it means for me as an artist.

Having just moved back to Chattanooga after being gone for almost a decade, I have to admit that the welcoming, supportive arts community was like taking a "breath of fresh air." Compared to Austin, TX where I had lived for the last three years the Chattanooga arts scene is much more conducive to my attitude about life and my art: positive, encouraging, engaging and supportive instead of dog-eat-dog. I was welcomed with open arms and quickly immersed myself as much as possible.

Part of that immersion meant a visit to CreateHere on Main St. where I learned about who they are and what programs they have to offer. I lucked into taking the first SpringBoard class - a class and resource center for artists and creative entrepreneurs that focuses on sustaining arts based enterprises. From that experience I gained a wealth of knowledge and met some amazing individuals whom, I'm glad to say, I still get together with often. Being surrounded by other artisans in such a positive environment was just what I was looking for. The vibe on Main Street is intoxicating, and I've thoroughly enjoyed watching the street come to life.

Mary Helen Robert, KCRW research assistant

....in 2006 KCRW was hired by the Lyndhurst Foundation in Chattanooga to conduct an intensive planning charrette for the Main Street district east of Market Street in downtown. Lyndhurst wanted to engage the wide mix of community stakeholders to jump-start the redevelopment of this formerly warehouse and light industry district adjacent to the Chattanooga Choo Choo and to older neighborhoods ready for new investment. The challenge was to build on the city's attraction to young artists and creative entrepreneurs. The transformation has been remarkable with new sidewalks, public art and on street parking, new businesses such as Niedlove's Bakery and Bluegrass Grill, new art studios and gallery space and dozens of new energy efficient condominiums, town houses and single family houses...close to downtown and a neighborhood elementary school.