The Vitality of West Virginia’s Downtowns

Introduction

Like many places across the country, downtowns in West Virginia have experienced years of decline. But they are now on the upswing as more and more municipalities recognize the economic and social value of their downtowns as commercial, civic, and government centers.

People in small towns and cities across the state are beginning to realize that the unique identity and sense of place their downtowns represent are worth preserving and developing. Unlike the homogenous, placeless, retail sprawl created by malls and big-box retail areas, a distinctive downtown has the opportunity to become a place where people can connect with their heritage and find a sense of community.

In municipalities across the state, local government leaders, nonprofits, and civic organizations are initiating downtown revitalization projects aimed at improving the economic climate of their downtowns, attracting new businesses, and creating an attractive, interesting environment where people feel comfortable and safe; in short, a place where they are willing to visit and spend time in addition to just doing business.

The Downtown Revitalization Team at West Virginia University Extension Service conducted a statewide survey to gain a more comprehensive outlook on the economic conditions, revitalization projects, services provided by municipal government, tourism activities, business development and promotional activities, issues, and training and organizational needs of downtowns.

The findings contained in this report provide a summary of those conditions and a roadmap for future program development to help facilitate downtown revitalization initiatives and to address the needs of downtown revitalization organizations. The findings also provide a snapshot of some of the impacts resulting from downtown revitalization projects across West Virginia.

Download the The Vitality of West Virginia’s Downtowns Survey Report (816KB PDF)

If you have questions about the report or would like more information, please contact Alison Hanham via e-mail at ACHanham@mail.wvu.edu or by calling (304) 293-6131, ext. 4207.