Wayfinding System Design
Community Assessments
CommunityBrand™ Action Plans
CommunityBrand™ Graphics Package
Downtowns
Speaking Engagements and
Boot Camps
Multi-Day Programs |
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Downtowns
The heart and soul of every community, besides its people, is its downtown. It is the litmus test for anyone looking to relocate a business or family to the area, and can be the primary driver for tourism spending. The top diversionary activity of visitors is shopping, dining and entertainment in a pedestrian-friendly, intimate setting: your downtown. This is also where most of the tourism spending takes place. But if locals don’t hang out in your downtown, neither will visitors.
A vibrant downtown, filled with people shopping, eating, meeting, relaxing, or simply enjoying themselves, is a healthy downtown. Success depends on a number of factors such as business focus, critical mass, beautification, retail signage, wayfinding, gathering places, gateways, and amenities. Creating a concept of downtown as a true destination – giving it boundaries, a name, and developing its unique brand – are all elements of the downtown development process.
Working with downtown organizations, property owners, merchants, as well as city officials and other local groups, you’ll have a well-rounded action plan with community buy-in. Including step-by-step instructions, to-do-lists, timelines, and possible funding sources, DDI’s plans are also easy to implement. A revitalized downtown is not only a primary destination for visitors, but provides the community with a focus, a sense of identity, and a source of pride. |
