Area businesses and neighbors are joining forces to raise money for community projects around The University of Memphis. University District Inc. (UDI), a new non-profit community organization, kicks off fundraising efforts with their inaugural Spring Fest on Saturday at 11 a.m.
The festival, taking place on Walker between Brister and Highland will feature food, music and family oriented activities until 10 p.m. Bands scheduled to perform on the main stage include Herman Green and the Green Machine, Mini-van Blues Band and Freeworld.
"UDI is a collaborative of neighborhood associations and businesses around The University," said Austin Baker, vice president of UDI. "Our idea is that we're putting our minds together to make our lives better."Baker said the group hopes to market the area in a way similar to what Cooper-Young has done with their neighborhood and business district.
"We want to brand the district as a great place to live, learn and work," he said. "With this inaugural festival, we're raising money to help get more police support in the area."
Baker said his organization is trying to push forward with the creation of a police substation on Highland.
That substation may arrive sooner than later, according to David Cox, UDI board member and Shirley Raines' executive assistant for partnerships and administration.
"For a good educational experience, students need to be in a good environment," Cox said. "The neighborhoods and businesses surrounding us are a part of that environment."
Cox said many universities around the country haven't paid attention to the neighborhoods and environment around them.
"It detracts from the students and everyone at a university," Cox said. "This collaboration allows The U of M to become involved early so that we won't see those consequences."
Cox said The University and other involved parties are close to completing the goal of putting a police substation on Highland.
"We're going through the final stages of approval with the city to increase police presence in the area," he said. "I'd look for that to happen very soon."
Shirley Raines will open Saturday's Spring Fest with remarks about University District Inc. and community projects.
The free festival will include local artists displaying their works and singer songwriters performing all day before the afternoon main stage lineup.
"This year we're trying to grow visibility for the area and create an identity," said Nita Black, owner of Memphis Originals and co-chair of Spring Fest. "We want to build an awareness of all the talent in and around The University of Memphis."
Black said she envisions the area around Highland and Walker becoming a sort of entertainment destination.
"We could manage this area in a way that serves families, neighbors and students," she said. "I would also like to see a small arts district in the area."
Hosting organizations for the first Spring Fest include MO's, Strings N Things, YMCA, Newby's, RP Tracks and The U of M Creative Department. The Memphis Grizzlies van and The U of M mascot, Pouncer, will be at the event Saturday afternoon. Admission to Spring Fest is free, but all money raised from sponsors will benefit community projects around The University of Memphis.
"Highland and Walker," Black said. "It's a crossroads where people in the area can enjoy commonalities."
