GREENSBORO BEND – Creation of a community center was the most requested re-use of the building by those responding to a Bend Revitalization Initiative (BRI) survey about redevelopment of the old Methodist Church in Greensboro Bend.
Approximately 90% of the survey respondents said they visit the Bend frequently, giving BRI a good understanding of local needs.
Survey respondents were entered into a raffle and on March 26th, BRI presented the prize of a $50 gift certificate donated by Smith’s Grocery to Nan Perron.
The BRI will use results from the surveys and information collected at a community dinner last fall to inform the redevelopment of the old Methodist Church in Greensboro Bend.
The top events and activities people hope to see when the building is reopened are community meals, educational programming and free classes, live music as well as game, book and craft clubs.
The most requested services were more kids activities, a community center and more housing, as well as better or free internet.
The creation of a community center was by far the most requested re-use of the building. Other top responses for re-imagining the old church were a coffee shop, retail, overnight B&B and a children’s library.
BRI members now plan to get to work on making the space a reality. A July event is being planned to celebrate the community, share plans for the building and hear feedback
Kaziah Haviland is director of the Village Trust Initiative
