Community-building “Stars” named by Virginians for the Arts

November 24, 2009

Two Main Street communities pulled top honors in the Virginians for the Arts’ Arts Build Communities Awards. The awards recognize arts organizations that best demonstrate the ability to enhance the community, lift spirits, and build a better quality of life.  The Barter Theatre in Abingdon was named Shining Star:  With 150,000 annual patrons, The Barter Theatre … More Community-building “Stars” named by Virginians for the Arts

Local investment may boost local retail spending

November 24, 2009

The Town of Rocky Mount is working with its Main Street program to invest in an innovative strategy to boost retail spending. The project, coordinated by the Community Partnership for Revitalization (CPR), was branded “5 on us’ by the economic restructuring committee. “5 On Us” will incorporate $5 vouchers redeemable at participating local merchants in the uptown and downtown areas. The cash vouchers are as good as cash toward … More Local investment may boost local retail spending

Virginia Tourism site can send visitors to your Main Street

November 15, 2009

Did you know that Virginia.org receives six million visitors a year?  The goal of Virginia Tourism Corporation is “more people, staying longer, spending more money,” and your community can be a part of this. Check out the city, town and county link to see if yours is listed. No? Reach out to your local tourism center, chamber of commerce … More Virginia Tourism site can send visitors to your Main Street

How green is your Main Street?

November 13, 2009

How green is your Main Street? The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), and Virginia Hospitality & Travel Association (VHTA) have partnered for the Virginia Green program. This is the statewide campaign to promote environmentally friendly practices in Virginia’s tourism industry – and it’s one more opportunity to market your community. Certification is … More How green is your Main Street?

As easy as 1, 2, 3: A downtown market analysis tool at your fingertips

November 12, 2009

A proper market study can be an expensive and complicated pursuit.  It’s a major community project that requires time, commitment, and the active involvement of a group of dedicated people.  And let’s be realistic too. Considering that dedicated group is volunteering their time outside of work and family responsibilities, completing and implementing a market study … More As easy as 1, 2, 3: A downtown market analysis tool at your fingertips

Arts and the economy converge at South Boston conference

October 29, 2009

Economic development and arts professionals convened in South Boston last week to explore strategies for harnessing the “creative class” in their communities. The conference, “Art and the Creative Economy,” featured notable speakers presenting examples of how small towns and cities have enhanced their economies by embracing the arts. The term “creative class,” as coined by Richard … More Arts and the economy converge at South Boston conference

Welcome VMS intern Margaret Barre

October 23, 2009

Virginia Main Street welcomes its newest team member, 2009-10 intern Margaret Barre. Margaret will graduate in 2010 from VCU’s Masters program in Urban and Regional Planning  with a focus on urban revitalization. After growing up in New Orleans, Margaret received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Louisiana, Lafayette. She then  followed a dream of living … More Welcome VMS intern Margaret Barre

The Art of Downtown: Revitalization with an arts and culture approach

October 23, 2009

Download the Fall 2009 Main Street Monitor for a look at revitalization efforts centered on arts and cultural assets around the commonwealth.  The Art of Downtown: Revitalization with an arts and cultural approach features include 10 tips for building on your community’s cultural assets 7 best practices for implementing a mural program 3 elephants, a … More The Art of Downtown: Revitalization with an arts and culture approach

Downtown Lynchburg shines for cabinet community day

October 22, 2009

Governor Timothy M. Kaine, his cabinet and members of his senior staff conducted their sixteenth and final Cabinet Community Day on a sundrenched, autumn Tuesday, Oct. 20 in downtown Lynchburg.  The Governor holds four Cabinet Community Days every year, visiting eight regions of the state twice over the course of the administration.  Executive Director Angela … More Downtown Lynchburg shines for cabinet community day