The coronavirus recession devastated downtown retailers. But some intrepid merchants survived — and their success stories offer hints at how small businesses can bounce back and thrive in the future. Retail expert Jon Schallert says creative merchants figured out a number of ways to stand out from the crowd. He offered these suggestions — which…To read more — login/subscribe
As downtown merchants recover from the pandemic, they need to rethink how they lure customers. That’s according to Nicole Leinbach Reyhle, founder of Retail Minded. She says retailers and downtown leaders will need to find ways to bring customers back to physical storefronts. “Whether we like it or not, consumers have gotten way too comfortable…To read more — login/subscribe
Reallocating Street Space During the Pandemic Many cities have responded to the COVID-19 crisis by creating more space for people outside. Which of the following, if any, have you implemented in your community? Do you anticipate any of these changes becoming permanent? Source: Urban Parks and the Public Realm: Equity & Access in Post-COVID Cities…To read more — login/subscribe
Chicago’s downtown district and its North Side are thriving, but its South and West sides continue to struggle. In response, Mayor Lori Lightfoot kicked off Invest South/West, a three-year plan that seeks to invest $750 million in dormant and struggling retail areas in 10 neighborhoods, including Austin, Auburn Gresham, New City, and Bronzeville. The city’s…To read more — login/subscribe
“Live music, kayak clubs, kid-friendly events, close the street happenings, and experiences.” That’s just one of the many resident suggestions for activities in the new town square in downtown Riverside, NY. The city has acquired several underused parcels and is working to create a new town square with direct access to the nearby Piconic River.…To read more — login/subscribe
The Flatiron District in Manhattan is home to dozens of restaurants, bakeries, and cafés. Despite the wide range of options, diners needed a little extra push to order food for delivery or pick-up during the pandemic. The solution: Offer a year of free meals. The contest was simple, participants enjoy a meal from their favorite…To read more — login/subscribe
In April, Troubadour Thursdays brought live music to downtown Tucson, AZ, and encouraged diners to visit their favorite outdoor dining spots. Each of the five nights of music featured a different local band, playing everything from Gypsy Jazz and Desert Rock to Bluegrass and Americana Folk. The music started at the downtown Fox Tucson Theater…To read more — login/subscribe
After a one year hiatus, the annual Riverhead Cardboard Boat Race is returning this summer to the Peconic River in downtown Riverhead, NY. The race is one of several popular events that was canceled due to COVID-19. The annual event draws hundreds to the city center to participate and watch as some 30 boats, made…To read more — login/subscribe
Following the lead of similar successful projects, Kuna, ID, will launch its own retail market village in June. The village will consist of 12 small shops in re-purposed garden sheds. The sheds will surround a central green space with room for food trucks and small gatherings. Lisa Holland the city’s economic development director tells the…To read more — login/subscribe
