GSA Daily Staff Report
Published June 15, 2010

Often city leaders choose to visit other communities to see their successes and hear about the lessons they have learned. Recently, Greenville was selected and visited by a group from Clarksville, Tenn.

"The mission of the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce is to represent the interests of the business community and its membership by advancing community development, promoting the business and economic environment, and improving the welfare of the community by enhancing the quality of life in the region", said Melinda Shepard, vice president of the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce.

The recent "intercity visit" was made with those interests in mind. By observing the strategic plan of Greenville, the trip participants were able to develop and identify potential growth opportunities for Clarksville, Shepard said. Specific areas of interest included the city’s downtown revitalization, public-private partnerships and the parks and recreation system.

The growth demands on infrastructure, housing and education were also discussed, she added.

"It's flattering that Greenville was chosen. We are always proud to introduce visitors to our great city," said Hank Hyatt, vice president of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce.

During their visit, the group learned quite a bit about successful downtown revitalization as well as about managing infrastructure issues resulting from significant population and economic growth, Hyatt said. The group stayed in local hotels and ate in local restaurants.

The Clarksville chamber chartered a flight through Special Services Corp., headquartered at the Greenville Downtown Airport. More than 20 business and community leaders utilized the business aircraft.