The Town of Barnstable has a long-established commitment to making arts and culture an important facet of the town’s economic development strategy as the Arts are often undervalued for the contribution they play in a stable, well educated, vibrant community.  The benefits of state designation are numerous.  In addition to state wide and national marketing opportunities, the Hyannis HyArts Cultural District and the Barnstable Village Cultural District work with the MCC and community partners to further develop current arts related economic development strategies, including encouraging business, job growth and expanding tourism.