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
Seeking to fill vacant commercial spaces as quickly as possible, the city commission in Miami Beach, FL (est. pop. 83,264), in February unanimously approved an ordinance that slashes red tape for restaurants and other tenants. “We’re temporarily deregulating and streamlining approvals to make it easier for live entertainment and quality restaurants to make a comeback…To read more — login/subscribe
This year, 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,”…To read more — login/subscribe
Ambassadors ensure participation in engagement efforts The goal of the Clarkston Greenway Feasibility Study was to develop new pathways connecting parks, green spaces, and popular destinations to make it easier for residents and visitors to move around the City of Clarkston, GA. One of the challenges facing the project team was ensuring input from the…To read more — login/subscribe
