Village Development

A vibrant and successful Stowe is dependent on a host of elements, including economic development. This vital part of Stowe Vibrancy’s mission helps to ensure the economic success of the Village and community as a whole. Our Board works with the Town of Stowe, the State of Vermont, local business leaders, partner organizations, and invested community volunteers to create and develop opportunities for such growth. Through coordinated town and state efforts, we champion Main Street and Village infrastructure improvements and beautification, greater access to designated downtown funding, increased communications and connectivity for our neighbors and visitors, and enhanced cultural and social opportunities. This important work helps elevate Stowe as a world-class vacation destination and high-quality community.

Downtown Designation

Stowe Village is now considered by the State of Vermont as a Designated Downtown. Municipalities that receive this designation collaborate with local non-profit downtown organizations supporting efforts through funding, staff, partnerships and volunteers. The downtown program utilizes the Main Street Approach which is a proven strategy that encourages communities to take steps to enact long term change, while also implementing short term, inexpensive activities that attract people to the downtown and create a sense of enthusiasm and momentum about their community. Stowe Vibrancy, Inc. initiates and manages the programs in Stowe that are part of this statewide effort.

–News release–

STOWE VILLAGE EARNS DOWNTOWN DESIGNATION STATUS

Stowe’s Lower Village Earns Village Center Designation

April 26, 2016 – Stowe Vibrancy, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Town of Stowe application for Downtown Designation has been approved by the Vermont Downtown Development Board.

Presenting its application on Monday, April 25th to the Downtown Board, Tom Jackman, Stowe’s Town Planner, and Brian Hamor, Stowe Vibrancy Board Member and Chair of its Economic Development Committee, explained in detail why Stowe deserves this important designation. 

Jackman and Hamor made clear that Stowe’s historic downtown is the gateway to the community of Stowe, and the entire community is committed to it.  Significant investment has been put into it – both public and private investment – to ensure its success, and the Stowe community simply wants to continue that work and build upon it.

“This is really exciting for the Town of Stowe, and our downtown,” said Jackman.  “It is critical that the village remain a vibrant and vital downtown in order for the entire community to be successful, and this Downtown Designation and extension of the Village Center Designation for the Lower Village will be key components as we move forward.”

“Stowe Vibrancy began its quest for Downtown Designation a number of years ago, and while it has taken some time to get to this point, we couldn’t be more pleased,” added Hamor.

“We look forward to continuing our important partnership with the Town of Stowe, and now an even greater one with the State of Vermont, its Downtown Program, and all of the entities needed to move us forward.”

According to the Vermont Department of Housing and Community Development, the Vermont Downtown Program “works throughout the state to bring resources (tax credits and grants) and training and technical services to help affiliated or “designated” downtown organizations preserve and revitalize historic downtowns and create strong communities.” 

For Additional Information, Contact Gary Holloway, Vermont Downtown Program Coordinator
Gary.Holloway@vermont.gov
(802) 828-3220