Strategy
Goal #1: Make downtown Erie a popular place
Through public relations, marketing, and advocacy Erie Downtown has created a new awareness of the downtown's culture and entertainment district int he Erie community and among tourists.
To accomplish this goal so far we have:
- Launched an information website for Erie Downtown with an interactive map of the downtown area, featuring all the important entertainment and business landmarks.
- Created a walking map for downtown.
- Hosted the 2006 Pennsylvania Downtown conference.
- Hosted and organized cultural and entertainment events such as the Bike Nights, Buggin's State and the Block Parties.
- Advocated for safety in downtown.
Goal #2: Improve Business Climate and Commerce
To attract more business to downtown we have:
- Introduced the Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) designation, that will bring millions of dollars in grant opportunities to entrepreneurs locating their business in Erie Downtown. Learn more about the Keystone Innovation Zone designation.
- Decreased the percentage of vacant storefronts and residential units.
- Redeveloped properties for increased density.
Goal #3: Urban Design and Environment
We have transformed the downtown landscape by cleaning it up, beautifying its image and adding street amenities that prevent littering. We are the winner of the 2006 Pennsylvania Downtown Center Safe & Clean Award. Here are some of the changes that we have introduced:
- Regular cleaning of downtown sidewalks, alley ways and parks using state of the art machinery.
- 24 hanging baskets full of petunias and vines.
- Flowers in empty planters by the newly refurbished State Street Bridge and the parking Authority's Ramps and surface lots.
- 40 receptacles and 10 cigarette urns on the streets to prevent littering.
- Good Neighbor policy to facilitate discussion between bards and neighboring businesses.