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2. Past investment in and ongoing use of the Colfax Cultural Center, Tippecanoe Place, and <br />homes that have been moved into the area have a positive impact on the Near Westside <br />area and improve its ties to downtown. <br />General improvements and development efforts downtown are also perceived as having <br />a positive impact on the study area. Projects mentioned include the Century City <br />convention conference complex, rehabilitated industrial buildings for commercial use, <br />and a planned new residential development along the river. <br />4. Some respondents feel that all available land downtown has been developed, and that the <br />Near Westside is an ideal "spillover" area. The demand for Class B-rehabilitated <br />office space seems to be high, and the existence of some commercial office space in the <br />Near Westside could provide the encouragement new investors need to come into the <br />area. Also, the positive economic trends, throughout the city may provide the climate to <br />make investment possible in commercial office space. <br />5. Some respondents believe that the Near Westside neighborhood could also provide both <br />retail and recreational activities for downtown employees whose demand for these items <br />is currently unmet. These must be within walking distance of downtown. Suggested retail <br />establishments include a convenience grocery, adry-cleaners and a hair salon. <br />6. In reference to housing in the study area, one respondent feels that realtors are <br />contributing to the negative impression of the Near Westside by not marketing it <br />universally. This individual expressed a clear need for acity- or county-run Fair Housing <br />Agency. The primary task of this agency would be to educate realtors about all <br />perceptions versus realities of various areas within South Bend, including the Near <br />Westside neighborhood. <br />• <br />