A look at the new Park Avenue Apartments project in downtown Ironton should start a few economic development minds clicking in Lawrence County.

Monday, July 24, 2000

A look at the new Park Avenue Apartments project in downtown Ironton should start a few economic development minds clicking in Lawrence County.

The historic charm of the building, which is going to provide low-cost housing for area seniors, has been preserved by the developers, adding a nostalgic feel to what could easily have been simply an eyesore downtown.

The Marting Hotel has a rich history, in spite of its rather dingy recent past. To see the structure restored to its former glory is a sign that there is plenty of room for second chances in the historic downtown business district.

Along with the high-tech craze sweeping the country, there is also a nostalgia boom. People will pay anything to relive the comfort moments of their childhood and are seeking out ways to show their children what life was like before video games and MTV.

Ironton could easily capitalize on that boon – and the remodeled Marting could be one of the first steps toward that goal.

This is not a new idea, but it is one that seems to never be fully developed.

With the recent closing of the plants, Ironton has a chance to take a new direction.

Perhaps the city should look back – then forward.