Remember the scene in Avengers: Endgame where Steve Rogers (Captain America) gave Sam Wilson the shield? It was a symbolic gesture that represented the end of an era, and the beginning of a new phase in Marvel Comics. Well…they say that “Life Imitates Art,” and most of us are aware of the demographic shift that’s occurring in America. The Falcon felt that handing over the shield was best for America but, our ancestors have charged us with a greater purpose.
Once considered “second class citizens” of America, blacks find themselves in a unique position of holding the keys to its future. This is particularly true in Guilford County where prominent positions on the City Council, Guilford County Commissioners, and even our General Assembly are held by African Americans. Although they share different beliefs, each member’s goal is to provide a promising future for their constituents.
This is why P3’s are vital to the success of East Greensboro. P3’s or Public-Private Partnerships involves an agreement between a public owner and a private sector partner for the design, construction, financing, and often long-term operation of an infrastructural asset. This partnership is a major selling point for businesses and residents alike.
For years, I use to wonder why the citizens of East Greensboro had to drive 15 miles to the other side of town to experience an enjoyable night out. Demographics and discrimination were the easy answers but truthfully, mixed use development requires a coordinated effort from the public and private sector.
As a developer, I know what needs to be done to change the perception of East Greensboro. In fact, I have a few practical, yet innovative ideas that will transform the infrastructure, and attract professional high-end earners to the area. Although we are rich in culture, East Greensboro needs to find a healthy balance to increase its tax base and improve our schools. My previous blog, “Follow the Yellow Brick Road,” https://www.buildingbloxusa.com/post/follow-the-yellow-brick-road, provides a glimpse of these transformative ideas and I hope our officials will take advantage.
NOW is the perfect time for laying the foundation to build upon for the next 50 years. Last week, President Biden spent time at NC A&T and witnessed many of the technological projects designed by our future engineers. I can’t help but to notice a President that’s pushing the GREEN New Deal, stopped in GREENSboro North Carolina, after the announcement of a Green Initiative Project with Toyota a few months ago. It’s funny, but I use to think that our name, “Greensboro” was a hinderance for attracting businesses, but if we’re smart, we could use it to our advantage for recruiting like-minded companies in the future.
The Marvel miniseries, Falcon and the Winter Soldier touched on a few controversial topics involving race. In the end, efforts were made to “correct the mistakes of the past.” I’ve noticed the similarities in our local government. It’s hard giving credit to our former mayors and councilmembers that should be commended for their efforts at a time when the board lacked diversity. Though controversial, I recognize their contributions for our beloved city. But now it’s time to pass the shield and support the citizens that are building a foundation for future generations.
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