Culpeper, VA (est. pop. 20,794), is about to embark on its fifth annual edition of a unique event aimed at engaging residents and visitors, deepening relationships with downtown merchants, and supporting Culpeper County’s shop-local initiative. Be A Culpeper Local Week has grown not just in spending but also in days on the calendar — it’s…To read more — login/subscribe
In Montpelier, VT (est. pop. 8,014), 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. The effort is part of the capital city’s recovery project after the 2023 flood, and it…To read more — login/subscribe
The Monmouth Independence Trolley, known as MI Trolley, began operations in 2023. The service connects the Oregon cities of Monmouth (est. pop. 11,428) and Independence (est. pop. 38,532). “A group of local leaders decided Monmouth and Independence needed a more accessible, reliable, and fun way of getting back and forth between the two cities, whose…To read more — login/subscribe
In 2025, the City of Oakland Park, FL (est. pop. 44,682), 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 city sold the old city hall property to South…To read more — login/subscribe
When construction comes downtown, the impact on local businesses can be overwhelming. Road closures, noise, dust, and reduced parking can discourage customers from visiting the area. 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…To read more — login/subscribe
Local businesses provide clean, safe toilets The London Borough of Richmond upon Thames launched its Community Toilet Scheme in 2004, making it London’s first borough to provide public access to toilets in local businesses and buildings. In 2008, the scheme was expanded and promoted nationally by the UK government. Toilets in the scheme are free…To read more — login/subscribe
A West African restaurant tests the waters at the Downtown Farmer’s Market. By any measure, the Downtown Farmers’ Market in Des Moines, IA (est. pop. 212,421), is massive. One of the largest markets in the nation, it has grown to span 12 downtown blocks. The 50 year old market routinely draws 300 vendors and 40,000…To read more — login/subscribe
In Regina, Saskatchewan (est. pop. 226,404), a marketing campaign aims to lure transplants from more expensive parts of Canada. In Rockford, IL (est. pop. 147,521), holiday billboards urge those who’ve moved away to come home. In Greensboro, NC (est. pop. 307,372), the city is dispelling its “Greens-boring” moniker and trying to bring back former residents.…To read more — login/subscribe
Rendering of The Canopy, Orlando, FL. City officials in Orlando, FL (est. pop. 334,871), in February approved $160 million in bonds to fund a variety of downtown construction projects aimed at boosting walkability and attracting new investment to the area. The upgrades include revamping an uninviting area under Interstate 4, which runs through downtown. The…To read more — login/subscribe
