Dirty streets, strange smells and abandoned buildings have been the staples of the Northgate area. All that is changing.The area has a rich history but has not always had a face to match it. Inga Kim, owner of Inga’s Subs and Salads, said the new wave of businesses has inspired a tidier presence both inside and out.”Chimes Street has had its ups and downs,” Kim said. “But now it has cleaned up a lot.”Newcomers, like Koi Japanese Cuisine and Reginelli’s, are housed in renovated buildings with clean lines.”I’m pretty excited about all the new businesses,” said Elizabeth Harvey, owner of Storyville and University alumna. “I’m not worried about competition because business around here is good for everyone.”Jared Loftus, owner of The Tiger District and president of the Northgate Merchants Association, said he would rather “have competition than an empty building.”Fresh paint and new sidewalks have become the norm, but those familiar with the area should be pleased with the atmosphere.”The new developments have to have the same funky aesthetics,” said Mark Goodson, community planner for the Center for Planning and Excellence. “They can’t stick out like a sore thumb.”Goodson said CPEX does not regulate businesses that come or what they do, but makes sure the architecture is constant.”We’ve had a lot of success thus far,” Goodson said.This regulation is quite important to entrepreneurs in Northgate.”Alumni come back and expect to see what Chimes used to be,” Kim said. “We want people to have good memories of the area.”CPEX has a program called the Commercial Facade Improvement Grant, which offers businesses assistance in remodeling.”It was started in May, and we hope to award businesses a few times a year,” Goodson said. “Inga’s was recently awarded the grant to fix up their curb appeal.”The new additions will include new windows and outdoor seating. However, the hot new addition has definitely been the sidewalk.”Finally, people can walk,” Kim said.Lighting for the walkway has yet to be installed, but most renovations should be complete by Northgate Fest on Nov. 14.”The festival is going to be great,” Harvey said. “It really celebrates the neighborhood and spotlights our uniqueness.”Businesses scheduled to open soon are Akasha Market and Chinese Combo King. Property is still available for purchase.—-Contact Ashley Norsworthy at [email protected]