Writing Sample
This is a newsletter I crafted for the Asheville Downtown Association, which was sent to 4,000 subscribers. It details the annual Downtown event, highlights key findings from the stakeholder survey, and advocates for local policy changes through the establishment of a business improvement district.
Elevating Downtown Asheville:
Insights from the State of Downtown Event
The Asheville Downtown Association recently hosted the annual State of Downtown event, revamped to reflect Asheville's vibrant energy. Sponsored by the Grove Arcade Public Market Foundation and held at Burial Beer Co., the event drew a diverse crowd, including citizens, business owners, and city leaders, all eager to explore the state of Downtown.
Before the presentations began, attendees savored offerings from Asheville's culinary scene, including Good Hot Fish, Bear’s BBQ, South Slope Cheese, and La Bodega by Cúrate. DJ Molly Parti's lively beats added to the atmosphere, ensuring high spirits all around.
Distinguished guests like Police Chief Michael Lamb and Fire Chief Michael Cayse underscored the community's role in fostering a safe downtown environment.
Executive Director Hayden Plemmons kicked off the event by revealing Asheville Downtown Association's dynamic new branding, signaling a fresh direction for the organization. Plemmons wasted no time delving into insights from the annual Stakeholder Survey, which garnered an impressive 410 responses, indicating the community's strong commitment to shaping downtown Asheville's future.
Survey findings highlighted top concerns among Downtown stakeholders, with 'Safety and Reducing Criminal Activity' leading the list, followed closely by 'Cleanliness & Public Health' and 'Parking.' Plemmons noted a shift in priorities compared to last year, with reducing homelessness and improving access to resources ranking higher. Despite improvements in safety and cleanliness perceptions, less than 25% of respondents rated Downtown's cleanliness as "Good."
"We’d like to be at 'Excellent'," Plemmons emphasized.
In response, Plemmons advocated for a Business Improvement District (BID) to enhance public safety and cleanliness, aligning with the Asheville Downtown Association's vision for a multifaceted approach.
Mayor Esther Manheimer and Buncombe County Commissioner Brownie Newman also shared insights on Downtown growth and initiatives, highlighting collaborative efforts with local authorities to address safety concerns and improve amenities.
Survey results underscored the urgent need to address homelessness and housing insecurity. Commissioner Newman detailed plans for short-term shelters and affordable housing initiatives, emphasizing the importance of mixed-use developments for downtown employees.
The keynote address by Gerren Price, CEO and President of DowntownDC Business Improvement District, showcased the transformative impact of BIDs in urban revitalization efforts. Drawing parallels with Asheville's challenges, Price highlighted the essential role of collaboration between BIDs, authorities, businesses, citizens, and other stakeholders.
Price emphasized DowntownDC BID's influence, citing positive impacts like improved maintenance, perception of public safety, and relations with city police. He highlighted the role of BID ambassadors in connecting the city’s vulnerable population with homelessness services and resources. He reiterated that these initiatives enhance rather than duplicate existing city services.
“There’s so much possibility when you have a Business Improvement District that is invested in your community,” concluded Price. “BIDs can really be helpful partners for cities to move mountains, do the difficult work, and help clear the deck for good things to happen.”
Gerren Price's enlightening remarks, paired with the findings of the stakeholder survey, underscore the potential impact that a Business Improvement District could bring to our community.
As we reflect on the annual State of Downtown, we extend our gratitude to The Grove Arcade Public Market Foundation, YMCA of Western North Carolina, First Bank, and McGuire Wood & Bissette for their unwavering support. Their contributions made this event possible, serving as a testament to the collective commitment to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Asheville.
Show your support by signing the petition at www.downtownashevillebid.com/support and encourage city council members to approve a Downtown Business Improvement District. Together, we can shape the future of Downtown Asheville!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our attendees, sponsors, and stakeholders for their unwavering dedication and commitment to our shared vision for the voice of Downtown Asheville!