Overview
What is a Cultural District?
A Cultural District is a specific area of a city or town identified by the municipality that has a number of cultural facilities, activities and/or assets–both for profit and nonprofit. It is a walkable, compact area that is easy for visitors to recognize. It is a center of cultural activities –artistic and economic. It is a place in your city/town where community members congregate, and visitors may enjoy those places that make a community special. Because each community is unique, each Cultural District will look different.Where can I find the Connecticut legislation that enables Cultural Districts?
An Act Concerning the Establishment of Municipal Cultural Districts (effective October 2019)
Reasons to Establish a Cultural District
- Market arts and culture attractions to visitors
- Promote and encourage artists, entrepreneurs and creative businesses
- Promote tourism and increase visitation
- Improve the quality of lifefor residents
- Strengthen distinctive character of communities
- Create a plan to drive economic growth and expand tax base
- Support Sustainable CT certification https://sustainablect.org/actions-certifications
- Contribute to Connecticut’s cultural assets
- Highlight culture and history of your community
Determining Municipal Readiness
Cities and towns should assess their readiness to establish a Cultural District.
- Assess the inventory and location of cultural assets in the municipality.
- Confirm if your city or town is eligible by reviewing the Standards & Criteria.
- Submit a letter of intent to establish a Cultural District to your Designated Regional Service Organization (DRSO).