Volunteers Recognized

The Downtown Wilmington Community Improvement Corporation (DWCIC) gathered Friday morning for their first quarterly meeting of the new year with reports on 2010 accomplishments being shared by committee chairs.  Facilitated by Chairwoman Leilani Popp, a major focus of the meeting was special recognition of volunteer service in 2010 to DWCIC and its Main Street Wilmington program.  Without volunteer support these organizations would not be successful.

Who Benefits from a Revitalized Downtown?

Local Residents/Consumers

• enhanced marketplace (better shopping and the benefits of shopping locally)
• sense of pride in downtown
• social/cultural activities
• opportunities to keep children in town
• sense of hometown community
• historical awareness (preservation of architecture and human history)
• tax dollars stay in the community
• opportunity to participate/volunteer
• better communication
• political advocate
• home values increase

Property Owners

• increased occupancy rates
• rent stability
• increased property values

Why is Main Street Important?

Can malls and discount centers take the place of traditional commercial districts? The answer is a resounding "no." It may no longer be the sole option in the community, but the commercial district is much more than a shopping center. Here are some reasons why Main Street is still important:

Commercial districts are prominent employment centers. Even the smallest commercial district employs hundreds of people, and often the district is collectively the community's largest employer.

The commercial district is a reflection of community image, pride, prosperity, and level of investment — critical factors in business retention and recruitment efforts.

Main Street represents a significant portion of the community's tax base. If the district declines, property values drop, placing more of a tax burden on other parts of town.

The traditional commercial district is an ideal location for independent businesses, which in turn: