Virginia Main Street (VMS) invites you to participate in an engaging, half-day workshop focused on the essential role that zoning and design play in creating thriving, vibrant downtowns. Whether your community is just beginning to tackle design-related challenges or is looking to take its revitalization strategy to the next level, this session is for you!
Led by Commonwealth Preservation Group (CPG)—a Norfolk-based historic preservation consulting firm and the newest architectural partner for the VMS program—this workshop will center on the intersection of design and zoning, with an emphasis on understanding the inner workings of local government and the pivotal role both elected and appointed officials can play in advancing Main Street revitalization efforts. Attendees will gain insight into how to effectively navigate planning and policy tools to unlock economic potential, evaluate community design assets to enhance sense of place, and guide future improvements. The session will also explore strategies for building productive relationships with local leadership, differentiating among stakeholder groups, and strengthening partnerships to support and champion public realm enhancements.
To make attendance more accessible, this training will be offered in three different locations across the Commonwealth. While the content will remain the same at each workshop, communities are encouraged to register for the session that works best for their schedule:
- Culpeper – Tuesday, Sept. 16 | 10 AM – 3 PM
- Tazewell – Wednesday, Sept. 17 | 10 AM – 3 PM
- Clarksville – Friday, Sept. 19 | 10 AM – 3 PM
Registration is now open, and space is limited—so be sure to reserve your spot soon. We hope you’ll join us this September for a meaningful conversation on how zoning and design can be powerful tools in shaping the future of your downtown.
Special Note
As part of the hands-on learning experience, CPG is asking each participant to bring the following:
- Up to three (3) photos of places in your home community that you find appealing or that you personally enjoy spending time in.
- Up to three (3) photos of places in your home community where you see opportunity for improvement or transformation.
These images will be used during one of the workshop activities, so please come prepared to share and discuss them with fellow attendees.
Image Credit: Coastal Virginia Magazine
Virginia Main Street 