In San Francisco’s Yerba Buena district, the organization once budgeted a significant sum to host splashy events. But like many downtown organizations, the Yerba Buena Partnership learned that when it comes to attracting visitors, bigger events aren’t necessarily better. “We were spending half a million dollars and not necessarily seeing a return,” says Jill Linwood,…To read more — login/subscribe
Early in the pandemic, San Francisco’s United Nations Plaza had devolved into one of the least welcoming public spaces in the city. Drug use, drug dealing, and overdoses were commonplace. Illegal vendors set up stands to sell stolen goods. When city inspectors showed up to cite the vendors, some of the public employees were attacked.…To read more — login/subscribe
Many downtown leaders have developed a love-hate relationship with dogs and their owners. On the downside, pet waste can pose a smelly nuisance and a source of constant complaints. But on the upside, dog owners help activate public spaces. After all, dogs need to be walked multiple times per day, so dog owners are out…To read more — login/subscribe
Denver micro community includes, 54 sleeper units, 3 hygiene units, and 2 laundry units. The tiny homes crammed onto a downtown lot near Denver’s police station are an example of how the city is tackling the issue of homelessness. The so-called micro community was built as part of an emergency declaration from Denver Mayor Mike…To read more — login/subscribe
Hosting downtown events for kids or including a children’s element in a larger event can boost attendance and help ensure that the next generation will have fond memories of downtown. But with so many demands on children’s time, it takes unique and innovative activities to attract the whole family. From simple and low cost trick…To read more — login/subscribe
The City of Thomasville, FL, received a $20,000 grant for upgraded safety barriers. The goal was to enhance safety and to preserve the atmosphere at traditional downtown events. Major Shane Harris explains: “If you’re having a Victorian Christmas, and you’ve got a trash truck at an intersection blocking so nobody can enter, I think that…To read more — login/subscribe
Temporary gathering space becomes permanent The North Mulberry Street Plaza in Fruita, CA, has received a top award from the state’s downtown association. The plaza was born during the pandemic, when a section of the street was temporarily transformed into outdoor seating. The temporary space proved so popular that the city moved to make it…To read more — login/subscribe
Gateway sign in Hapeville, GA. In Holly, MI (est. pop. 5,971), a grant was used to replace trees destroyed in a fire. In Columbia, TN (est. pop. 43,971), grant funds were used for streetscape improvements. In Pontiac, MI (est. pop. 61,689), a grant will support creation of a garden-shed retail village. In Bowling Green, KY…To read more — login/subscribe
Four years after Toledo, OH (est. pop. 265,306), launched a program to attract businesses to blighted buildings, the initiative is still going strong. Since Toledo unveiled its Vibrancy Initiative in 2021, the programs have leveraged more than $109 million of private sector investment, assisted 30 existing businesses, attracted 21 new businesses, and created and retained…To read more — login/subscribe
