Community Placemaking

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Whether temporary installations or permanent fixtures, public art adds beauty and uniqueness to downtowns.  Informal concerts, Grants-in-kind, Gallery displays, Murals, Art in Public Places Codes and Master Plans and incentives are just a few of the tools. 

Understanding the captive audience market -- what local residents, downtown employees, and nearby visitors want-- combined with demographics, new construction, and national trends help position cities for activity, investment and fun. 

Sidewalks, streets, public parks and open spaces provide areas for the public to convene and enjoy whether managed by the City or private entities.  A place to people watch, relax and connect (or disconnect) are some of the reasons downtowns are thriving. 

Building brand identity and  authentic and compelling experiences  add energy and foot traffic to downtowns. Wellness events, farmers markets, art nights, walking tours, festivals and tastings are quick to develop and easy to manage while creating activity different hours and seasons.

Every downtown has a story worth telling and buildings worth saving.  Discover the proper balance between  new and old, traditional and avante garde, cutting edge and cutting ribbons.  Consider a historic tourism program with historic markers, founders day events and self-guided walking tours and other programs. 

Whether creating a Community Redevelopment District, a Business Improvement District or a simple assessment district, downtowns need funding sources and boundaries of focus.  They also need simple architectural design codes and maintenance standards to maintain investment and garner attention.