USA Today reports that Partners for Livable Communities has selected my hometown of Jackson, MS, as one of America’s Most Livable Communities.
(You’d think such a prestigious award would make the local paper, wouldn’t you? It didn’t. Good thing “an alert and responsive local paper” wasn’t on the list of selection criteria!)
As a resident of Jackson, I frankly found the news stunning. So stunning, in fact, that I set out to discover exactly what the criteria might be for a “Most Livable Community” and exactly how Jackson, MS, qualified.
Happily, the Partners for Livable Communities have posted their criteria on the web. Unfortunately, most of them are expressed in vague, corporate terms, making it difficult to see how a city would or would not qualify (I defy you, for example, to make heads or tails out of the definition given for the Regionalism criteria.)
Still, reading the list offers some surprises:
A City Center. While many Jackson residents work downtown during the day, I know of few who would think of our downtown area as “a second living room” and “a gathering place.”
Most folks I know avoid downtown after sundown — a practice I find extreme, but understandable. I know at least one person who’s been mugged at gunpoint while leaving one of the downtown restaurants. Recently, after we left packages outside the overstuffed mailboxes at the post office, post office personnel called us to say, “Never, ever do that downtown! People will run off with your packages!”
Tourism. When’s the last time you heard someone exclaim: “Honey, I’ve got the week off … let’s go to Jackson!”?
Seriously, since Jackson is one of those cities that makes you appreciate frequent out-of-town travel, I can’t imagine it having much claim to being a tourist mecca.
Leadership. Anyone who’s ever tuned in to our city council meetings on Public Access will have a good giggle over the idea that Jackson has “community leaders who dedicate themselves to improving the quality of life for all residents … [with] innovation, collaboration, and foresight.” (Unless innovation, collaboration, and foresight include petty turf wars and threats of physical violence.)
More shocking, however, is the actual entry on the city of Jackson, which highlights the following items as evidence of our town’s livability:
1. The Multi-Modal Transportation Center. Locals call this the train station. As train stations go, it’s pretty standard … and pretty small.
2. The 74,000 square foot / $17.5 million dollar TelCom Center. This high-tech gem is, according to the Partners for Livable Communities website, “located right in the heart of downtown Jackson.” There’s just one problem. It doesn’t exist.
Our “innovative, collaborative” city leaders have been squabbling over the placement and construction of this boondoggle for the past ten years. The result? Nary a brick has been laid.
3. The $70 million dollar Federal Courthouse. Billed as anchoring the “south end of downtown,” this doesn’t exist, either.
4. The Farish Street Entertainment District. At least there’s some wiggle room here: the listing says this ragged neighborhood is “being transformed into an entertainment district that will rival Beale Street in downtown Memphis.” And maybe it will be … but this, like many of the other items listed, will be features of the future, if they ever exist at all.
Especially since all the language used to describe Jackson’s non-existent amenities seems to be taken almost ver batim from the city’s promotional web site, one begins to wonder if the Partners for Livable Communities have ever even been to town.
Hi Mark. Just dropped by to see your personal site. I must say, your comments on Jackson had me rolling. I was wondering.. did you, by any chance, send this to the newspaper as a response? I particularly like the part about the non-existant amenities. Jackson sounds like my home town, Minden, Louisiana. Needless to say, I live elsewhere now. I’m not saying Atlanta is exactly homey, but hey, at least we have amenities and I no longer have to go out of state to shop. You be sure to let me know if any of your promo brings you to Atlanta sometime. I’d love to see you again!Take care and keep up posting!Robbie Meeks
Oops! Mark off any hope for any future consulting jobs with Jackson. I, like Robbie, laughed out loud.
You really need to chill just because you don’t njoy the City it’s just the same as the other larger cities…… The ad says Most Livable Places then its says This is a highlight from Jackson, MS: one of America’s best places to live, work, and play! LIVE WORK AND PLAY, Do you go out of town every week, how many tags have you notice in the city of Jackson from other states at least 30 a day.Jacksonhas improve over the years especially the last 10 years. We are on the Move and making notice to the other cities and states. All the other cities have crime problem just as Jackson and if you noticed, have not many of the crimes committed usually by someone the victim has known. You just like the news and the new paper, Do you work for them.I have been to every major city in the U.S. and Canada and when I get off the Airplane and land back in Jackson, I feel secure and glad to be back HOME. You may not even be living Jackson the city of Jackson, it did not say Ridgeland and Madsion nor Pearl and if you want to know what other sources say about jackson click here and give it a REST. http://www.inc.com/magazine/20040301/top25.html Read it and Tell your friends.
Actually, I *do* live in Jackson — not Ridgeland, Madison, or Pearl — and I stand by my assessment of the city’s charms (or lack of them).
I enjoyed your link to the Inc. Magazine article, which lists Jackson as one of several medium-sized business that are great “to do business in.” That’s the key phrase, I think: Jackson would be great to visit as part of a business trip … but there’s a difference in being a city that’s great “to do business in” and a city that’s fun, attractive, or exciting to live in.
I’m glad you enjoy Jackson, and hope you’ll continue to do so. Meanwhile: I think it says something that the city’s “best features” — at least those cited by “Most Livable Places” — don’t even exist!
I’m actually quite impressed with the leaps and bounds of Jackson in the last few years. It is evolving, in my opinion, into a very diverse metropolitan community with a strong focus on the creative arts and tech industry.
As well, our downtown area has a very high occupancy rate and is literally one of the safest locations in the Metro area.
The arts and technology are key factors when evaluating the “livability” of a city. Richard Florida, the author of ‘The Rise of the Creative Class’, suggests a city’s success depends on its tolerance (something evidently growing in the Metro area), creatives (you can’t go a day in the city without hearing about or attending some gallery event or experiencing the work of a local artist), technical savvy (wireless hubs all over the city, large telecoms located and re-locating here… plus the future plans of the conference center), as well as an established and flourishing gay community amongst other minority communities.
Everything Richard Florida suggests as key factors of a successful, leading city are under way in Jackson. It’s hard to recognize if you allow the mass-media (C-L and Corp. news outlets) to further taint the face of such a diverse city but they are there. I’d say it’s more evident in the 30 and under crowd that are attempting to re-shape the city into a smart, savvy cosmopolitan area with the help of their elders.
More and more people my age are taking interest in the arts by hosting art events, creating art, and supporting the art community. Those same diverse creatives are definitely supportive and interactive with the gay community which shows a great deal of tolerance blossoming in the city’s next generation. Hell, all you have to do to see this group in action is attend one of the Collective’s events; ask Casey at the vid.store all about it!
Further, there are plenty of things to do for this same generation that will inherit the city. Events occur nearly every night targeting this group (gay/straight/black/white) including concerts, pub trivia, gallery showings, community meetings, indie film screenings and so forth. This same generation is the generation that sees Jackson as *the Bold New City* and understands on many levels what is needed to make that mantra/slogan stick and remain solid.
While many over 30 are fleeing to gated communities and the suburbs, the younger generations are embracing the urban environment and attempting to change it for the better. Crime is dropping; urban neighborhoods are seeing a significant renaissance; more eateries and clubs are (re)locating to the city rather than suburbs.
Anyway, I’ve rambled enough. I love this city and never have a difficult time finding entertainment including concerts, gallery openings, intelligent conversations, watering holes, new eats, etc. I’ve also found myself intrigued by how little I know about Mississippi and Jackson’s history and all the interesting things to do… First thing I had to do was unplug my TV and step out into the city to start recognizing it’s truly diverse beauty…
I’d wage this city is on the verge of a complete renaissance that will surprise most anyone… My friends from Portland were certainly suprised by last night’s Fondren event (multi-racial and plenty of gay couples and individuals!) that included food, drink, music and merriment and especially surprised by the renovations going on in the Business District. As well, they have enjoyed kayaking down are warm southern streams/rivers and traveling the Trace to learn a little more about our diverse history.
I’d quickly say Jackson could be a destination city within the next 10 years if we’d all get off our arses to inspire and be part of the changes rather than beating her up with our negative words and actions inspired by a jaded, misinformed national perception of our state and its people… Afterall, we’re not all hicks or racists with 1st Grade reading levels that still step outside to the ‘out house’ to use the restroom. Many, if not most, are intelligent, creative and savvy individuals ready for change and to be part of it but need a good swift kick in the butt to do it proactively!
If you ever have a hard time finding something interesting to do, shoot me an email… I’d be happy to send a list of some of the more interesting things you could do on a given night.
First suggestion? Head to Brown’s Gallery in Fondren around 7 this evening to have one hell of a sensory overload: food, drink, art and jazz! Our local jazz bands are incredible and the environment of Brown’s is an excellent venue for such an event.
Next, head back to Fondren, again, Saturday to take the pooch for a walk and enjoy the Tour Lefluer or later that evening take in some punk rock along with a skateboard downhill competition (a very refreshing concept this city needed).
Tuesday? Try Pub Quiz at Hal & Mal’s! Excellent food, drink and hilarious trivia… Not to mention cash prizes! And it’s an extremely safe venue to boot.
My personal suggestion would be “Without Sanctuary: Lynching Photography In America” at Jackson State… You’ll leave a changed person after seeing these dark and haunting photos of racially motivated lynchings in our collective past. As well, the Paris Moderne exhibit at the Museum of Art is worth a peek! I can’t say much about the Dresden exhibit but do know quite a few out-of-towners heading to JXN to experience it.
Whenever someone’s opinion differs dramatically from my own — especially when that person is someone I respect for his wit and intelligence! — I pay close attention. Thanks, Knol, for posting a reasoned and detailed comment.
That said: I feel compelled to point out that my original post primarily concerned the criteria used to appoint Jackson a “Most Livable City.” I find it ironic that most of the positive features cited — the telecom center, the courthouse, the Farish Street entertainment district — don’t exist.
Had these been used to appoint Jackson a “Future Most Livable City” or a “City that will be More Livable in 15 Years,” that’d be one thing. The fact that the awarding organization speaks of these facilities as though they exist today is, I think, distressing … and telling.
As for your specific comments about Jackson:
1) I would be very interested in any statistics which support the claim that downtown Jackson has a “very high occupancy rate,” especially given the lack of residential infrastructure (apartments, condos, drug stores, grocery stores, etc.) Can you site some?
2) Based on events you cite, it does sound as though there are an increasing number of events keyed to the under-30 demographic. (Hard to imagine many over-thirties being drawn to a downhill skateboard race scored with punk rock music.) I’m glad to know this is the case.
However, I stand by my assessment that Jackson is lacking access to foreign, art, and alternative cinema … that Jackson lacks a venue for first-tier (or even second-tier, or even innovative alternative-tier) theatre … and that Jackson, in general, is starved for the calibre of social, musical, and cultural events that are standard fare in cities I personally would deem “most livable.”
A weekend in Atlanta or New Orleans makes this point abundantly clear.
Thanks for suggestions, though, regarding some options; I’ll check these out.
3) I’m glad you’re excited about Jackson and that you enjoy living here. I suspect, but cannot prove, that you may be here by choice; the fact that my circumstances are a bit different almost certainly colors my experience and attitude.
I hope you continue to find life here rewarding!
Mark
“Had these been used to appoint Jackson a “Future Most Livable City” or a “City that will be More Livable in 15 Years,” that’d be one thing. The fact that the awarding organization speaks of these facilities as though they exist today is, I think, distressing … and telling.” -Mark
After reviewing their site, many of the criteria seemed to be based on goals for the present in the future. It seemed to be more predictive in nature based on the past, present and attainable future.
Also, the site has not actually posted their in-depth findings. The data about Jackson more than likely came from the VisitJackson.com site or another promotional site. It will be interesting to see what the final release has to say about the city.
Quote from the America’s Most Livable: “This is a highlight from Jackson, MS: one of America’s best places to live, work, and play!
To learn more about the exciting projects, places, and people in Jackson and why it was named America’s Most Livable, please check back on April 20, 2004″
Until then, we’re both merely speculating about their reasoning. Hell, Mr. Barbour might have lobbied for it. 😉
Now to your questions/points.
Mark: I would be very interested in any statistics which support the claim that downtown Jackson has a “very high occupancy rate,” especially given the lack of residential infrastructure (apartments, condos, drug stores, grocery stores, etc.) Can you site some?
Knol: From Downtown Jackson Partners’ website: “Downtown Jackson is business friendly and growing. Downtown Jackson Partners, along with real estate managers in the area, have been actively working to retain and expand Downtown businesses, as well as, to attract new ones. Office occupancy rates in Downtown Jackson recently topped 93%, up from 91% in 2001…. In order to increase the viability of these markets, Downtown Jackson Partners is turning its attention to residential development opportunities. A strong pent-up demand for an urban-neighborhood lifestyle is evident.”
As for residential properties, I know of Belhaven and Mid-Town as two, heavily occupied residential areas just blocks from the Business District. As well, there is Sterling Towers, Magnolia Towers, the Iron Works Lofts, the up-and-coming Entergy flats, the Dickies Factory lofts and a few other places you’d never suspect of hosting homes and residential tenets.
Mark: However, I stand by my assessment that Jackson is lacking access to foreign, art, and alternative cinema … that Jackson lacks a venue for first-tier (or even second-tier, or even innovative alternative-tier) theatre …
Knol: I could not humbly disagree more. Milsaps has a regular indie film review; Flashback has indie and art-house video screenings often; heck, Video Library is one of my favorite places to go for avant-garde, indie and foreign films (especially GLBT). As well, rumor has it the old Capri in Fondren is suiting up to become a major player in the indie cinema circuit… That’s rumor but with credible sources. There’s definitely growing support for this scene.
And what about Crossroads? People from all over the country and films from all over the world? Not only is this inspiring the local film buffs, it’s inspiring a whole new world of film critics, producers, directors and actors in the area and abroad. Film is far from dead in the area.
And NO ONE has forgotten Deville Cinema’s dedication to that arena as well. The younger generations know of it still. It’s legend!
Mark: and that Jackson, in general, is starved for the calibre of social, musical, and cultural events that are standard fare in cities I personally would deem “most livable.”
Knol: That’s a matter of opinion. Alternative, electronica, punk, indie, hip-hop/rap, blues, jazz, country… They’re all playing in the city! Local bands and musicians, as well as otheres from all over the globe, are sharing their sounds in the city every day and evening. Blues and jazz haunt an abundance of night clubs in downtown, among other areas, every night. Indie, alt, electro and punk at Soulshine, Hal & Mal’s and Martins nearly every night. Country at many bars on the south and north sides of the city. There’s even a comedy bar, again!
We could stand a few gay bars though to encourage more diversity in the community.
Socially? I’ve never been to so many art openings or been exposed to so much culture anywhere. This is the home of Eudora Welty, B.B. King, John Grisham and so many other talented and creative individuals and groups that are known worldwide. Can you honestly say we have little-to-no cultural exchange and most go to other metroplexes to get it? Personally, I don’t feel that need. I enjoy sharing cultures and being exposed but there is so much here right now under our own noses. Like I said earlier, I had no clue until I unplugged and began socializing with other like minds.
Mark: A weekend in Atlanta or New Orleans makes this point abundantly clear.
Knol: That’s interesting to me. A friend from Portland enjoyed her time in Jackson and seeing Her sites than she did in New Orleans. She said, “New Orleans has little charm. It’s just like every other big city but it seems to smell real bad… What’s that smell? Oh, and the French influence is cool” About Jackson she said, “I had no clue. I expected gravel roads and hillbillies. You guys have plenty to stay entertained and I’ve met amazing people I would have never guessed lived in Mississipi.” She was awed by the Fondren event and the diverse collection of boutiques. The cost of housing per square foot. She was excited by Farish and could not wait to come back to experience it. She enjoyed the Natchez Trace and the appreciation for our natural environment that is evident in zoning and planning. She badly wanted to visit the Museum of Natural Science and the Paris Moderne exhibit. She loved the Southern architecure that remains abundant while being dismantled in many larger cities. She literally was excited to be in the city and very excited to be welcomed back to Crossroads next year… She also plans to come back for the holidays.
Those comments are not something you’d expect to hear from a punk-rocker from Portland… Maybe a middle-age shop-a-holic seeking outlet malls and cutesy boutiques but not a pierced, red-haired punk chick with a mohawk.
So, I’d argue while some find Mississippi boring, bland and uncultured, many others are finding her appealing and appreciate her unspoiled talents and many hidden gems.
Times are changing for the city and Her people and it’s a great time to experience those changes!
My campany wants to relocate me to Jackson and my friends think it is insane for a single 47 year gay man to live there. Is it safe? Is there life?
Hi, Ken. Thanks for stopping by.
Like all places, Jackson has its plusses and minuses. A lot of what *you* feel about Jackson will have to do with your needs: emotional, cultural, spiritual, and sexual.
In more than a decade of living here, I’ve never once felt threatened or unsafe in any sense. I was out — my partner attended corporate functions, etc. — while working for a very conservative, very Republican telecom firm, and never encountered any issues at all.
There are many religious people in this city who do frown at homosexuality, and the paper is riddled with letters to the editor whining about “those people” wanting to “flaunt” who they are; but in the city proper, people are a bit more savvy.
If the bar scene is an important part of your life or socialization, you’ll be very frustrated by Jackson. I’m not the best person to address these (I was never comfortable in the bars), but younger friends who do enjoy them often complain that Jackson has virtually nothing. You won’t find a gay coffeehouse, a gay bookstore, a gay community center, or even a predominantly gay neighborhood here.
I would imagine that being single in Jackson would be frustrating in the extreme, as the relatively invisible community has no place to meet and greet. There *are* gay people here — lots of ’em. We see them in the aisles of the Home Depot. We see them at local restaurants. We see them in the local video store that stocks gay and lesbian titles. But they’re not organized or unified; everyone is pretty much on his own.
Spiritually, you will also be on your own. We’ve found one or two Episcopal churches that grin at gay members and one Methodist church where we felt relatively welcome. The local MCC and an independent “gay” church have long histories of controversy and spiritual unhealthiness; I can’t recommend anyone attend there for any reason.
On the other hand, you’ll be within three hours of New Orleans, where you can find most of the resources a gay person would want in a city, and, thanks to Southwest and Northwest Airlines, you can get to a number of weekend and international destinations conveniently and inexpensively.
Frankly? I’d advise you to invest in a visit here before making up your mind.
I’m hoping others will chime in on this, as I’m aware my own view is somewhat biased.
Good luck! Let me know what you’re thinking.
Jackson- one of the most livable cities in the US!!!! Have they ever been there? I grew up there- I know. If you are a devout Southern Baptist who likes to have a big church to build your social life around, enjoy hunting and fishing, relish living in a sauna for 7 months a year, like low housing prices since no one who values their personal safety would dream of living south of Madison County, and have no desire to enjoy higher culture of any form, then Jackson is your place. When I grew up there they actually had a good local symphony and opera company, but the symphony now has concerts in churches and no more opera- although Grand Old Opry stars perform there regularly, I am sure. Now Jackson is one of the top ten metro areas in the country with highest crime rate. I was held up in front of the house I grew up in before my parent’s died. On Friday nights one could hear gunshots on the hour from their house. No one in their right mind would drive around inner Jackson at night. Oh, well. Very interesting discussion.