Copious Notes

Shops on Main Street in Berea boast numerous arts and crafts offerings that help enhance the city's status as a cultural district. © Herald-Leader staff photo by Mark Cornelison.

The Central Kentucky cities of Danville and Berea were among the first five communities to receive Kentucky Cultural District Certification. The honor, administered by the Kentucky Arts Council and presented by First Lady Jane Beshear and Madeline Abramson, wife of Lt. Gov. Jerry Abramson, is part of an effort to connect cultural assets to economic development.

The Great American Brass Band Festival is one of Danville's annual cultural events. © Herald-Leader photo by Chet White.

The other communities to receive the designation were Covington, Paducah and Horse Cave, all of which are well known for their cultural offerings.

According to a news release from the Kentucky Arts Council, “A cultural district is a well-recognized, labeled, mixed-use area of a community featuring a high concentration of cultural amenities that attract local residents and visitors alike. Cultural districts can be found in any type of community, from small and rural to large and urban. Kentucky’s program is designed to showcase each community’s unique character and assets.”

There were 26 applicants for the first round of designations. The honorees were selected by an independent panel, and the Arts Council says it will continue to work with prospective communities that hope to receive the designation.