Downtown Digest News • Web Extras
When construction comes downtown, the impact on local businesses can be overwhelming. But with careful planning and action — such as clear signage, maintained pedestrian access, communication with business owners, and scheduling work to minimize disruption — communities can protect the economic health of local businesses and the downtown overall. Around the country, local governments,…Continue reading
Downtown Salina, KS, is steadily growing its collection of outdoor sculpture through a combination of annual displays and targeted purchases. Each year between 15 and 25 sculptures are selected and displayed downtown as part of SculptureTour Salina. Residents and visitors may follow a self-guided walking tour to view each piece and to vote for their…Continue reading
Cities and towns across the United States are celebrating the 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the Declaration of Independence. There will be a yearlong series of events and activities including historical reenactments, parades, festivals, concerts, and educational exhibits. As the lead organizer for the event, America250 has set a goal of “350 by 250,” aiming to…Continue reading
In Regina, Saskatchewan, a marketing campaign aims to lure transplants from more expensive parts of Canada. In Rockford, IL, holiday billboards urge those who’ve moved away to come home. In Greensboro, NC, the city is dispelling its "Greens-boring” moniker and trying to bring back former residents. All three are examples of midsized cities aiming to…Continue reading
By any measure, the Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines, IA, is massive. One of the largest markets in the nation, it has grown to span 12 downtown blocks. The Greater Des Moines Partnership aims to attract both established vendors and startups, but the event is so big that it can be intimidating. The solution…Continue reading
A partnership between the Henrico Economic Development Authority and the local online publication, the Henrico Citizen is boosting businesses in the small Virginia city. Funded by the EDA, the Boost program provided small businesses with complimentary, three-month, advertising packages. Nearly 90 percent of Boost participants reported that they were pleased with the program, with most…Continue reading
In the heart of Neenah, WI, an unused bank drive through is being converted into a new public space called, Alta Alley. The project will cost a total of $66,000, and feature children’s play areas, seating, and art. The transformation is funded in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. Alta Resources,…Continue reading
Recruiting new businesses to town might get all the glory, but there’s real value in keeping existing tenants downtown. That’s the philosophy in South Boston, VA, where the Keep Entrapreneurs Program is making an impact. Beginning in 2024, downtown leaders delivered advice and technical assistance to existing businesses, helping them address financial challenges, adapt to…Continue reading
Jefferson, IA, might be a tiny town in a struggling rural region. Even so, it’s accomplishing big things. In one innovation, Jefferson Matters, the city’s nonprofit Main Street organization, has commissioned four rooftop murals with a fifth on the way. Why paint on rooftops in a downtown filled with two-story buildings? The artworks are indeed…Continue reading
Spring is on the way, and it’s time to celebrate — with flowers. Across North America, spring blooms take center stage at a wide range of events that draw visitors and locals alike. There’s everything from large-scale seasonal festivals (like tulip or cherry blossom festivals) and competitive flower shows (like the Philadelphia Flower Show), to…Continue reading
To mark Valentine’s Day and promote downtown shopping, the Greater Easton Development Partnership’s Main Street Initiative, launched Match Made in Easton. The 10-day program has downtown businesses coupling-up to offer unique deals and promotions to customers who present receipts from their partner shops. For example, a customer at Yellow Balloon Consignment can present their receipt…Continue reading
Everyday, across North America, in small towns and big cities, downtown leaders are working to improve the physical, social, and economic conditions in their downtowns. Now, you can get an inside look at what they are doing, and why, with timely articles from Downtown Idea Exchange newsletter. Whether it’s Portland, ME, San Diego, CA, or Morristown, NJ,…Continue reading
