Downtown Savannah is a bit contrary.

It refuses to follow the trend of so many small towns across the Midwest. Instead of empty buildings and closed up shops, Savannah's downtown is a thriving business district. The elegant Andrew County Courthouse presides in the center of a downtown district that has been skillfully refurbished with brick sidewalks and aesthetic streetlights.

Now, Savannah has garnered more accolades by being designated a DREAM community. By participating in Downtown Revitalization and Economic Assistance for Missouri, the city can access economic development funds for improving downtown's outlook. Other cities in the region - St. Joseph, Maryville, Chillicothe and Trenton - already have made good use of DREAM incentives to enhance their downtown districts.

Savannah leaders said DREAM projects will focus on extending pavement, sidewalk and lighting improvements to the second ring of businesses surrounding the square. The vision, however, sees beyond bricks and light bulbs. City Manager Mike Fisher also wants to help make local businesses more competitive, an essential ingredient for making dreams for any downtown come true.

Savannah has excelled by accepting its new position as a bedroom community for St. Joseph, yet also retaining its rural roots and small-town charm. We congratulate the community for earning the DREAM designation, while recognizing the hard work is just beginning. Look for more success stories to come out of this contrary downtown.