So, the Roanoke Arts and Cultural Plan met city council’s approval. Have you read the document? Do you think it will be effective? What do you hope will come about because of it? Let me know in comments.

The Roanoke City Council unanimously adopted a new Arts and Cultural Plan at its Aug. 15 meeting, a successful conclusion to months of planning and public feedback.

The 56-page document, available at the city website at http://1.usa.gov/nc2kn3 and on my Arts & Extras blog, is now part of the city’s comprehensive plan that governs neighborhood growth and economic development.

At the meeting, Nathan Harper, chairman of the Roanoke Arts Commission, which spearheaded the process, gave a presentation that sketched the plan’s final form. It’s organized around three goals: contributing to the regional economy, engaging communities and neighborhoods, and creating opportunities for lifelong learning.

Center in the Square President and General Manager Jim Sears, Roanoke Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Beth Pline and Arts Council of the Blue Ridge President Wayne Strickland all spoke in support of the plan.

Councilwoman Anita Price said she appreciated the plan’s consideration of bringing art to all neighborhoods. Councilman Bill Bestpitch said he hoped implementing the plan would mean the city will look to more regional artists when it seeks public art.

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