Economic Development:
We believe in creating a strong, neighborhood based economy. Where those who live in the neighborhood, can also work in the neighborhood. Where our historic commercial buildings are open and active, bring both vibrancy and local job opportunities to our city.
What We’ve Done:
Business Facade Program: This program works to revitalize and rehab our vacant, blighted or underused historic commercial buildings in the City, with a focus in West Newport by offering a matching $5,000 grant towards exterior facade construction. To date, we have funded 12 commercial buildings in Newport, bringing new commercial space and local jobs to the city. If you are a commercial building or business owner in Newport looking to learn more or apply to this program, click here. For a list of past projects funded by this program, click here.
Expanded Outdoor Dining: During the Covid-19 Pandemic, it became clear how vital outdoor dining is in an urban area. Working with our partners at Devou Good Foundation, we were able to raise funds to purchase brand new outdoor dining furniture for dozens of our local restaurants and establishments to help them keep customers safe, bring vibrancy to our streets and help their businesses grow. We are actively working with the City and business owners on adopting new, equitable guidelines for permanently expanded outdoor dining.