Title
Resolution Supporting the Phoebus Partnership and the Goals of its Main Street Program
Purpose
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND:
City staff, in collaboration with the Phoebus Partnership, are seeking City Council approval for the designation of the Phoebus community as an Accredited Main Street community under the Main Street USA program. Phoebus is currently recognized as an Affiliate member of the program, and this designation will help to elevate its status, enabling greater access to resources and support for downtown revitalization.
Phoebus Partnership board members have been leading efforts to advance this designation since 2019 when they completed a strategic planning process facilitated by the Community Development Department. Over the past year, the Phoebus Partnership has hosted the Main Street USA team as they conducted a comprehensive assessment of the organization's progress. Phoebus has also received funding from the Hampton Roads Retail Alliance to support local businesses, as well as additional funding from the Virginia Department of Housing & Community Development for the creation of a small area plan that will guide future connectivity and commercial revitalization efforts in Phoebus.
Discussion:
The designation of Phoebus as a Main Street community offers numerous benefits to the local economy and community well-being. The Main Street program is a proven framework for economic development, preservation, and community engagement, which will help Phoebus capitalize on its unique historical and cultural assets. This designation is intended to further enhance the vibrancy of the area, attracting new businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and increasing foot traffic, thereby boosting local commerce and tourism.
The City’s primary role will involve ongoing support and collaboration with Phoebus Partnership, Inc., and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the Main Street program.
Impact:
The proposed designation of Phoebus ...
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