It’s hard to deny the positive feeling surrounding downtown Wheeling. The new streets and sidewalks were one piece — an important piece — in what appears to be a renaissance on Main and Market streets. But don’t dismiss the private investment that’s taken place.

For many, the buzz downtown is stronger than it’s been for the past two decades. What used to be a vacant downtown after 5 p.m. now is showing real signs of life. Restaurants are open; shows are taking place; live music has returned.

The best part? The public has noticed.

Head down to the waterfront on a Friday night and you’ll see the excitement there. Stop at the Bridge Tavern and enjoy great company. Matt Welsch, Wheeling’s Vagabond Chef who just this past week received glowing praise in a regional publication for his unique creations at the Vagabond Kitchen, continues to whet local appetites. A new Christmas-themed pub has opened for the holidays right next to the Wheeling Suspension Bridge. And, as we saw last month when Robert Plant kicked off his latest tour in Wheeling, the Capitol Theatre continues to be the city’s centerpiece.

That’s just a piece of what’s happening downtown. River City Restaurant, DiCarlo’s Pizza, Fabio’s just across the Main Street Bridge, Avenue Eats, the Wood Fired Pizza Co. … folks now have a reason to come downtown in the evenings. That’s been great to see.

As family and friends gather this holiday season, don’t hesitate, if you’re looking for something special to do, to visit downtown. There’s plenty of eating and entertainment options throughout our city, but it’s good — and, if we want a future of growth in our region — that our downtown has made its way back. A strong city has a strong downtown, and for too many years, Wheeling’s suffered. Let’s make sure that chapter is closed.