This second time
is a real charmer
Sometimes the planning process works as it is designed to do.
We’re not at the end of the road yet with the saga of the Quonset Development Corporation and its designated developer, New Boston Development Partners LLC. But it was heartening to see the group come back to the R.I. Statewide Planning Commission last week with a new concept for the Quonset Point Gateway plan – a concept that responds to the criticism leveled against its earlier incarnation.
The original plan made public in December, which included a Kohl’s and Lowe’s Home Improvement, had suburban sprawl written all over it. North Kingstown and state planners were not happy and asked for changes.
After consulting with local and state stakeholders, the QDC has come back with a much better plan. It is more pedestrian-friendly and public transportation-friendly and has more of a village feel to it. The buildings are closer to the streets, and parking is hidden from view. It is also more densely developed with more office space. All of those features fit into the smart-growth ideals that the state believes lead to better development.
And just as important, it still includes the Kohl’s and Lowe’s components, albeit on a smaller-than-standard scale, and thus retains the $144 million in private investment. No public money is being requested and none will be needed to complete the project, according to the developers. Well done!
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Politics is not alone
in effective blog use
Blogs have been part of the political culture at least since the turn of the century, generating interest around certain candidates and issues.
It only makes sense that businesses would eventually figure out how to use the medium to create enthusiasm and forge relationships with their customers.
Shortly after opening Bellani Maternity in Warwick last November, Shannon Georgio and Kelly LaChance-Guertin began a blog called “Behind the Bellani Women.” Clearly the owners hope it has a promotional impact, but the site is only obliquely about marketing. Rather it offers a highly personal account of young motherhood, as well as providing insights, tips and news of interest to parents and parents-to-be.
And because it is available 24 hours a day, parents can log on after the last feeding or whenever it fits into their often chaotic schedules.
Business blogs do not come without drawbacks, as discussed in the story about Bellani and blogs in this week’s Providence Business News, but many entrepreneurs are finding that the risks are worth the special relationships that they are able to create with customers.
Success takes commitment, creativity, and a willingness to reach customers where they live. And more and more businesses are finding that blogs are the tool to do just that. •
