Did you miss the first Lofts of Vicksburg? Don’t worry. Organizers are hoping for a second — and that’s a good thing.

Last Saturday, downtown residents opened their doors for the Vicksburg Main Street-sponsored showcase event. The tours featured former department stores, such as The Valley and Sears, that have been transformed into lofty living spaces.

Downtown living was a plan started under the Laurence Leyens mayoral administration, and it has continued during Paul Winfield’s term. The hope is to attract residents — and commerce.

The turnout last Saturday — more than 325 people in two tours — shows downtown living is gaining traction.

The cost was $15 for an afternoon tour and $25 for the evening. The money raised will head right back downtown, to spruce up buildings.

Revitalization is not a new thing. Cities larger, such as Hattiesburg, and smaller, Clarksdale, have made concerted efforts to bring people back to where it all started.

Our downtown is bursting with history. The waterfront, the murals and two in-the-works museums will only enhance the atmosphere. For the 25th annual Riverfest in April, the main stage will be at the old Levee Street depot, providing a magnificent backdrop. The Vicksburg Farmers’ Market is a big draw, and the riverboat cruises planning to make overnight stops in the River City will bring tourists and money. A vibrant downtown, with people and businesses, will enhance the experience.

We applaud Main Street for the Lofts of Vicksburg. We applaud the more than 300 who took the tours. We hope the next round is of equal success.

Downtown is waiting to explode.

Be a part of it.