Some people walk by abandoned bank buildings and see the past. Apparently, Arnold Duke walks past them and sees opportunity.

Duke purchased the former Key Bank Building on the corner of Second and Main streets a couple of years ago. That building is in the midst of a facelift for its new future as the Jamestown City Center, a project that includes eight residential apartments, office space for a corporate tenant and commercial and community service space that will be used for a variety of activities. Lori Galster of Galster Enterprises Inc. has been working with Duke on the project and recently told The Post-Journal that the project will also include a live dinner theater company with rights to do sketches from the Carol Burnett Show.

Earlier this week, Duke announced the purchase of the former Key Bank Building on the other corner of Second and Main streets. Plans for his newest acquisition are less concrete, but Duke has formulated plans for an emporium that will host several retail business vendors and Duke’s jewelry store, the International Gem and Jewelry Show. It is the sort of venture that could be perfect to extend visitors’ stays downtown after visiting the National Comedy Center. And, kudos to Duke for buying some pieces of the former Prendergast Library art collection and keeping them local. Some of the pieces will be on display Friday and Saturday in the Key Bank Building.

Arnold Duke has called his local enterprise The Duke of Jamestown. If he is able to turn two empty bank buildings into successful enterprises, he will have truly earned that title.