The new Rite-Aid that opened in March 2015 on Main Street was the first phase of the Centre City Project, which also includes a parking garage and hotel downtown.

So how does the city of Butler, and more specifically downtown Butler, play a part in Butler County? Our history and established infrastructure.

I believe we are at the tipping point for the next great resurgence in city living.

Butler Downtown was established in 2007 to promote the value of an established city center. Our concentration was Main Street from Penn Street in the north to Wayne Street in the south, east to McKean Street and west to Washington Street.

Our organization has received a number of accolades throughout the years and continues to evolve.

We focus on uniting our businesses for success, establishing fellowship for our residents and creating a welcoming environment for visitors to the city.

The Centre City Project, encompassing a hotel and tier parking garage, is the catalyst for the next phase of that resurgence. We've already seen a number of young entrepreneurs establish new businesses and begin to actively take part in reshaping Butler.

Unlike other municipalities, the majority of the area within our borders is already developed. With the notable exception of the Centre City Project, we are finding ways to highlight the value of repurposing the old versus building new.

Pop up shops designed to allow businesses to try out a space allow for experimentation. The facade grant program allowed business property owners to give a fresh look to old structures.

Natili's Pizza Shoppe, Cornerstone Commons and Cycle Warehouse are prime examples of how a redesign can welcome new visitors to the city.As the county seat, our central location makes it convenient to get to all points north, south, east and west. Our public transit system, walkable neighborhoods, historic architecture and affordable housing costs are giving the next generation the ability to become part of a larger community.Eclectic smaller shops, art centers, restaurants and pubs offer a diversity of choices, all coupled with a hometown feel.City life has its conveniences.The decline in Butler's population and economy did not occur overnight. It was a slow process, occurring over nearly four decades.With a little effort, we've seen remarkable improvements in the past 10 years. It requires patience and perseverance, but things are moving in the right direction.Butler Downtown is remanufacturing the urban experience.

Tom Graham, president of Butler Downtown