HCR 173 Summary

• Requests the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts to conduct a cost-benefit analysis on establishing creative districts in Hawaii.

• Directs the Foundation to identify specific areas in the state most suitable for creative district designation and submit findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2019 Regular Session convenes.

• Defines creative districts as geographically contiguous areas distinguished by physical, artistic, or cultural resources with concentrations of artistic activity, cultural institutions, or arts businesses that promote and preserve community arts and culture.

• Recognizes that creative districts can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, enhance tourism, preserve historic buildings, and strengthen community cultural identity, particularly in economically depressed areas.

• Requests the Foundation propose any necessary legislation to implement creative districts in Hawaii.