We’ve witnessed a growing embrace of tourism as a key contributor to the local economy thanks in no small part to the lasting impact of vineyards and mountain biking trails.

They are the pioneering pillars of our tourism economy. Now, local officials view tourism as a way to offset losses from a shifting retail landscape. Today, visitors are as likely to come to the Grand Valley to play as they are to shop. That means giving people more stuff to see and do.

For downtown merchants that means pandering to a more tourist-centric marketplace. Over time we would expect to see more restaurants and bars, more art galleries, more development along Colorado Avenue and more nightlife. When downtown businesses are staying open until 9 p.m. because there’s foot traffic to warrant extended business hours, we’ll know we’re close to realizing our full potential as a tourist spot.

Read more at The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.