Summary Main Street Marketing
In December, the CRA hired the communications firm R.B. Oppenheim and Associates to assist in the beginning steps of branding Main Street. Through a process of several public meetings, the CRA approved a brand name (Main Street Alachua), a slogan (Discover the Good Life), an elevator speech, written messaging content, a logo, and a style guide to follow to create branded marketing content.
Since the completion of the final phase of the Main Street Beautification improvements last month, the CRA is now ready to further develop the branding and marketing program by hiring a photographer to take professional photos of Main Street, businesses, and patrons at area businesses and engaging in activities on Main Street. After this step, Staff will create a Main Street Alachua website and social media accounts. Attached to this agenda item is a marketing guide for CRA staff to follow, based upon the recommendations listed in the CRA Market Study and Economic Development Implementation Plan.
Third Thursday on Main Update
Third Thursday on Main has continued with the most recent event taking place on June 21st, with an estimated attendance of 150 people. After encouragement from local business owners and enthusiasm from the public, the Art and Craft Walk is planned to become a monthly component of Third Thursday. There are several Main Street business owners who sell their own art and craft work in their shops, and these businesses will be highlighted in the Artwalk Brochure. The next event will take place on Thursday, July 19th from 5 p.m - 9 p.m.
Business Facade Grant
Staff has continued to develop the Policies and Procedures, Application, and Rating and Ranking Sheet for the Business Facade Grant.A handbook is also being prepared to serve as a user-friendly guide for interested parties. These materials are under final staff review, and will be presented to the CRA Advisory Board for review in the near future.
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