Economics of Place
For decades, Jamestown has maintained its identity as one of the quieter, but most picturesque destinations along the Rhode Island coastline. This “sense of place” provides the foundation for a steady, but not overwhelming, tourist economy on the island. The Narragansett Avenue corridor leading to the waterfront has helped to define Jamestown for over a century and maintains a scale of buildings and activity that typifies the traditional “pier area” commercial center that is special to coastal New England. Outside of the commercial center, Jamestown has some of the most stunning coastline and natural landscapes in Rhode Island. As Jamestown looks to the future of a sustainable local and regional economy, access to these unique assets will be essential to maintaining a local economy of place.
Questions to Consider:
1. How can Jamestown attract and support local, year-round businesses that serve island residents?
2. What are the best ways to balance the tourism industry infrastructure with the environment that makes Jamestown an attractive town in the first place?
3. What programs can the Town and other partners use to support sustainable, "green" business and tourism?