In suburbs around the country, data centers have become a point of contention. But for downtown leaders struggling to fill empty buildings, they could provide a welcome source of new tenants and a boost in property values. Downtown data centers are much smaller than centers being pitched or built in the suburbs. But they command…Continue reading
A 1905 building in downtown Ripon, WI, was set to be torn down and replaced with a surface parking lot. The historic space had been empty for years, and the building was problematic because of a mold infestation and structural issues. Instead of adding parking, the City of Ripon, the local Main Street program, and…Continue reading
In April, the Flatiron NoMad Partnership in New York City notified BID members of an upcoming film shoot in the district. The BID has been the site of several movie and TV productions in recent years. Filming a movie downtown can bring significant economic, cultural, and promotional benefits, often injecting substantial revenue into local businesses…Continue reading
Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper (LQC) placemaking projects are low-cost, short-term, and often temporary installations that can quickly improve a space before investing in permanent solutions. The term, coined over 40 years ago, continues to influence downtown development with projects ranging from quick low-cost approaches to pedestrian safety to creating green gathering spaces when and where they…Continue reading
In 2025, the City of Oakland Park, FL, moved from its long-time city hall location into leased space in a new downtown office building. The move provided the city with both modern office space and an opportunity to bring new housing downtown. The building is being demolished to make way for 311 apartments, with 10…Continue reading
In Montpelier, VT, the downtown is recovering from a natural disaster that struck more than two years ago. One linchpin of the rebound is the illumination of 10 downtown bridges over the river that inundated the city. Beyond the lights themselves, downtown leaders worked to establish a new identity for the capital city as The…Continue reading
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
