"Reconstructing the Tapestry of Rural Community Centers”

Across the high plains region of West Texas and Eastern New Mexico many small communities face a crisis in economic and social development. Brought about by dwindling profits from agricultural production, and the resulting diminishment in population and services, many small communities are struggling to find new approaches to ensure a livable and stable future. A constant theme throughout this region is the decline of the traditional downtown center and the growing interest of many community leaders, stakeholders, and citizen organizations in revitalization initiatives that attempt to strengthen the economic potential and cultural stability of the traditional “main street” and courthouse square. Texas Tech University has undertaken the role of assistance and support to these communities through service, research, and human and technical outreach to address the current situation. The College of Architecture has created a Community Design Studio that for the past five years has direct