Editorial

The Cullman Planning Commission is wading into territory that could have a positive impact on the downtown commercial area.

At Tuesday’s meeting, the commission approved recommending to the Cullman City Council a change to its loft apartment ordinance. The change would eliminate the 50/50 rule where half a building’s floor space has to be dedicated to commercial purposes and the rest residential. The proposal would also require business only on the first floor, while residential living could be on the second and third floors.

City of Cullman Building Inspector Rick Fulmer also noted buildings with basements should be considered as part of commercial area of the structure, per the amended ordinance.

Fulmer said it is difficult for an investor to make 50/50 numbers because the second story won’t rent for enough to justify the construction. Loft apartments become easier to finance with a second level of lofts bringing in revenue.

The idea of loosening the restrictions, or expanding potential, is excellent for Cullman because interest in the downtown is especially high among potential investors.

Some key points should come into play when the City Council considers amending the ordinance. The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce, through research in its five-year development plan, notes that downtown living is a highly-desirable lifestyle for young professionals. If the community wants to retain locally-raised young professionals and attract others to the area, downtown is a scene that matters.

Also, creating an environment that provides investors with more options will bring a greater variety of businesses into the area. While corporate-owned chains may target the high-traffic areas of U.S. 31 and Alabama 157, downtowns are an oasis for unique shops and restaurants that can draw local shoppers and visitors.

And the fact is revived downtowns are highly in demand for shopping, dining and entertainment. Cullman has maintained a steady, successful base of locally-owned businesses for many years. That foundation ensures a strong position for more growth and diversity.

Evaluations of downtowns that are on the way up suggest that diversity is a major factor is longterm success. Restaurants are important, but so is a varied selection of retail stores to keep people in town and spending money. The bottom line is to create a multi-dimensional experience for local shoppers and visitors so that word spreads about the local appeal.

We encourage the City Council to make the changes recommended by the Planning Commission, and to continue to look at additional changes that encourage investments and growth while maintaining safety and the integrity of a vibrant downtown.

As these changes and developments continue, city leaders will also have to take a closer look at traffic patterns and business trends to make certain Cullman continues to prosper in the years ahead.