The focus was on how to revitalize Main Street – the township main streets making up the region of western Chester County. Several townships had displays to show off their future plans.
The speakers were very conscious of the realities of 2013, compared with the past. Kahn demonstrated that township administrations must now be prepared to welcome developers into their midst, with streamlined planning processes, because there are many choices in this economic climate. He also showed that employers want value-added amenities for their staff. Now, more than ever, they are placing their businesses in exciting downtowns, rather than remote locations.
Arnold presented an overview of the Vibrant Streets Toolkit. It can be used by retailers, businesses, merchants’ associations, government agencies, neighborhoods, and community groups to make incremental, measured improvements in their commercial districts to attract shops and restaurants. Also, it’s a great way to assess your business idea, especially retail, before you sign that lease and buy inventory. (Download it at www.vibrantstreets.com)
Krack, Phoenixville Borough Manager, stressed the importance of working collaboratively with your community partners to affect positive progressive change. He works with the local chamber, the state and county economic development councils and the local business associations to bring new businesses to Phoenixville.
The idea for the event sprung from the chamber’s recent Future Focus Study of the area, with other initiatives already completed, and more to come. You can download the study from the chamber’s website at: www.westernchestercounty.com
