The city of Watsonville, CA, with a population of just over 50,000, reports a total of $8,879,604 in direct economic activity generated by local arts and culture organizations. This includes an average of $30.49 spent per person attending an event. That data is from Americans for the Arts. Every five years, the nonprofit takes an…Continue reading

 

Just a few months after Mishawaka, IN, enacted a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), the city council voted in December to expand the boundaries of the drinking zone. Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter reports that Mishawaka’s experience with public drinking mirrors that of other cities across the nation. First, state lawmakers, seeking to help downtowns recover from…Continue reading

 

Cities across the country have cracked down on disruptive electric scooter programs. Now Columbus, OH, is reining in its chaotic fleet. Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter reports that Columbus’ pool of bike and scooter rental services will be replaced next spring by a single vendor. Veo, the new provider, operates a variety of traditional bicycles and e-bikes,…Continue reading

 

In September, the Downers Grove [IL] Downtown Management Corp. hosted its annual women’s shopping event. Like similar events, the goal is a fun-filled shopping experience especially for women. But, as Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter reports, it’s also a fund raiser for local Parent Teacher Associations. Downtown shops and restaurants offer special giveaways, discounts, and demonstrations for the…Continue reading

 

As record temperatures gripped the nation this summer, downtown leaders looked to increase shade by expanding the tree canopy. But shade is just one of many benefits of trees, says Chelsea Craig chair of the Morenci, MI, Downtown Development Authority. By creating a green and vibrant environment, the DDA aims to increase foot traffic, attract…Continue reading