Join us for this episode of #LocalGovMatters, where we discuss “Revitalizing Wisconsin’s Downtowns” with Errin Welty, Downtown Development Program Manager with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC).

As our guest says, downtowns are not competing with the town next door anymore, they’re competing with a couch and Netflix. In our conversation with Errin, we learn that there are a lot of things that communities can do to be successful.

From parklets to pop-up shops to yoga in the park with mimosas (yes, we are looking at you Mayville!), and from a community supported hotel, patio cafes, farmers markets and a mall conversion, Errin talks about public-private partnerships, government investment in public spaces and more that has made a difference across the state. Decline is not inevitable – especially if you are a community of “yes.”

Is your community mentioned? If it is, share this episode! If not, and you have a story to share, let us know at our contact information below and we will share it with our listeners!

Resources:
Wisconsin Main Street
Connect Communities
WEDC Regional Economic Development Directors (By Region)
Community Vitality & Placemaking Team
UW Extension First Impressions Program

Show Ideas?
Contact #LocalGovMatters hosts Michelle Thompson of the Wisconsin Counties Association or Gail Sumi of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities with show ideas.

A special thanks to Jackie Johnson for sound editing and to Ann Marie Austin for her technical support. This episode was recorded on January 27, 2020.

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