Over the past decade or so, Bowling Green has seen extensive growth in its Hispanic population, a group that adds to the diversity of our population.

The neighborhood off Clay Street is populated not only by Mexicans, but by many people from Central America as well.

They are making quite an impact on a neighborhood that had quite a few dilapidated and boarded up buildings. The area, once a predominately black neighborhood, is now referred to as Little Mexico.

The area includes a general store, a taco shop, a tortilla factory and a restaurant. There are also several churches in the area that serve the Hispanic community.

It is positive to see these immigrants becoming a part of the economic system as they establish businesses that reflect their cultures.

Celia Lopez, director and founder of La Esperanza, a Hispanic resource center on Kentucky Street, estimates that 5,000 to 8,000 Hispanics live in Bowling Green, a number considerably higher than the last Census report.

&#8220I think they’ve added to the community – they’re family-oriented people,” said Ronald Cowles, who co-owns the Cowles Barbershop, located in the neighborhood.

People familiar with the neighborhood have noticed an overall improvement in appearance with people taking better care of their property.

The city and residents involved should not only be commended for improving the appearance of the area, but for looking at ways to provide more recreation and traffic safety measures.

Another encouraging aspect of our growing Hispanic population is their attempts to become homeowners.

Under a seminar offered by Kentucky Housing Corp. called &#8220Yes You Can,” residents in the community learn from local professionals from the Housing Authority of Bowling Green on how to become successful homeowners.

After completing the seminar, families will receive a certificate allowing them to get a mortgage with a competitive interest rate from the Kentucky Housing Corp.

It is a good sign to see so many Hispanic and other ethnic families participating in this worthwhile program.

We commend the residents of Little Mexico and other ethic groups on their progress in becoming a part of this larger community.