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A convention center is the right thing to attract higher businesses to this region, a great asset for competing with the metropolises of nearby Hampton Roads, VA. Well, here is my vision of the convention center complex. It would be a large enough facility to attract fair-sized conventions of various organizations, but not so large to bankrupt the city or whatever private investors might be backing it. A small Hilton or similar class hotel would adjoin it (approx. 50 rooms and suites).
Since the downtown area's parking capacity would be compromised in the development of the municipal parking lot, a four-level parking garage would be built across a new street from the center. To make things interesting, and to amuse guests, a small Riverwalk-type mall, like those seen in larger cities would be built, possibly containing a few small national chains, an anchor store, a few eateries and the rest leased out to local Mom and Pop merchants. The Riverwalk development would not only serve tourists and locals, but would also be across the street from Mariner's Wharf, giving passing boaters a place to stop.
The convention complex, complete with lodging, shopping/dining and exhibition facilites would be a great boon to Elizabeth City and especially downtown's economy.
