Topeka ? Topeka has difficulty attracting new businesses because it is an unattractive place that does not have a strong identity, according to a consultant’s report.

The consultant, hired by the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce/Go Topeka, said the city’s problem goes beyond the proliferation of commercial signs, deteriorating storefronts and unattractive architecture.

“From an outsider’s perspective, the community does not show well and does not present a strong sense of place and identity,” according to the report. “While (the roads leading into the city) contribute to this impression, it is the city’s lack of a strong city core that is the biggest challenge. There is no sense of vibrancy and no center of gravity that a new-urban center of arts, entertainment and housing would provide.”

The report from Competitive Strategies Group said the city would impress executives more if it began beautification efforts, including landscaping and removal of dilapidated structures. The report does not address how the changes could improve life for residents.

The consultants express particular concern with the lack of available “class A” office space downtown, saying that while some firms might want to use older spaces, “this is usually found in an area with a dynamic urban core and revitalized downtown area. That appeal is not associated with these properties,” the report states.

But Susan Mahoney, executive director of Downtown Topeka Inc., said the consultants were not aware of improvements made downtown since 2000, including new parking garages and $1.5 million in grants to encourage market-rate loft apartments, building facade improvements, retail businesses and new dining and entertainment establishments.

The city’s $1.5 million has generated $9.5 million in private investment, she said, but she acknowledged that more needs to be done.