We don’t yet know what the new normal will be after the COVID-19 crisis winds down. But, we do know that keeping people engaged with places and people throughout the pandemic is a key to keeping them engaged in the future. One way to provide socially distant activities is through guided smartphone-based apptivities, such as … More Creating Interactive Apptivities for Downtowns
While normally Virginians hunker down during the hottest and coldest months, sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic has invigorated within some people a desire to be outside when normally they would have stayed home. Our neighboring Main Street programs in the Northeast, Midwest and Mountain states can offer many ideas that celebrate winter in … More Activating Outdoor Spaces in Winter
A vacant building at the heart of downtown Norton once considered for demolition has gotten a second lease on life. Recent renovations have transformed it into Southwest Virginia’s first cidery. Watch the video to learn more about the project from start to finish! The project to reimagine the former auto repair shop began in 2016 … More Norton’s Cider Success
What started out as a conversation between a tomato producer and hog farmer has blossomed into a regional economic development driver that will having a lasting impact on southern Virginia. The idea of for the Southern Virginia Food Hub was started by Ann Taylor Wright to help local farmers and producers add value to their … More Southern Virginia Food Hub
If you are looking for the holiday spirit, look no further than Virginia’s Main Streets. Whether a holiday shopping promotion, a tree lighting, or a downtown evening carriage ride, there is a special experience just for you and your family. Our partners at #VirginiaTourism make sure you can plan this season’s special moments with the … More Walking in a Main Street Wonderland: Celebrating the Holidays in Virginia
On October 2, 12 – 1 p.m., Virginia Main Street is offering a free webinar focused on encouraging business growth in your downtown and helping existing businesses keep their doors open. One of the of the primary responsibilities of a Main Street program is to boost the economic growth of the business district. With … More Webinar – Business Booster: Recruitment and Retention Tactics for a Vibrant Downtown
Guest Blogger Julie Markowitz, director of Staunton Downtown Development Association, started with Main Street in 2006, armed with 10 years of experience in mall marketing and promotions. Staunton Downtown Development Association is delighted to host the first inaugural Virginia Main Street Downtown Intersections workshop in Staunton, Virginia on July 11-13, 2016. Welcome to Staunton, Main Street … More Tips for a Wonderful Experience at Downtown Intersections, Staunton, Virginia
Inspirational downtown revitalization stories are happening all over the country. The article linked here describes how a small town in Kentucky was able to use a local food movement to bring new business into their struggling Main Street area. The program that they used was through EPA’s Local Foods, Local Places initiative and partners with … More Local foods revitalize downtowns
As of Jan. 28, 2014, with approval of the city council of the city of Harrisonburg, Downtown Harrisonburg has adopted the designation of a Downtown Culinary District. Harrisonburg is the first city in Virginia to receive this designation. Several factors contributed to the recognition of Harrisonburg’s Downtown Culinary District. Many large, food-related businesses, including City … More Downtown Harrisonburg Named Virginia’s First Culinary District
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