WORKING TO REVITALIZE
Business leaders attend economic workshop
The Taylor Economic Development Corporation is attempting to help local businesses thrive and bring new energy into the city’s business districts.
The group held a Downtown Revitalization Workshop at the Taylor Independent School District Event Center Monday, Sept. 25. Attendance was open to all local commercial property and business owners, managers and entrepreneurs.
“Ensuring a thriving downtown is not just a goal, it’s a commitment to ensuring the prosperity of our local businesses and enhancing the overall quality of life for our residents,” said Regina Jo Carlson, TEDC program manager.
Lorie Vincent, president of economic development firm Acceleration by Design, presented tips for downtown improvement at the event.
Vincent will work with the city over the next year, providing information on a customized Taylor page inside of her company’s website.
The speaker has been working with cities to improve business districts for 32 years and has worked with over 200 towns. She said Taylor already has a good downtown area in place but cannot stand still.
Vincent’s recommendation of action stems from competition from other towns. According to her presentation, there are about 18,000 cities in the country with a population of under 25,000 residents.
While Taylor doesn’t have to match up with big cities for customers, Vincent said the city must become attractive to stand out from the pack.
“You can’t rest on your laurels, you can’t be apathetic and think that people will come no matter what,” Vincent said. “You have to have a plan and vision and work at it.” One major highlight from Vincent’s presentation was focusing on the city’s first impression and how to enhance it. She said things like abandoned buildings, damaged roofs and old paint jobs are all it takes for a potential customer to not consider shopping in a city.
Local business owners view Downtown Revitalization presentation at the Taylor ISD Events Center. The event was hosted by the Taylor Economic Development Corporation. Photos by Hunter Dworaczyk
Lorie Vincent, Acceleration by Design president, speaks on the 40 critical factors that customers weigh when choosing where to shop or move.
Knowing this, Vincent said any improvement to a downtown area should start with an honest assessment portion. While she acknowledges funding can be limited, she says any improvements made to one’s own business will benefit the entire business district.
“As you’re driving through town, people are taking first glances and first impressions,” Vincent said. “We will want to talk about what type of first impression you are making.”
Another tip given during the presentation was to ensure there are reasons for everyone in the community to shop.
Vincent describes the “3/3/3” downtown success formula, which suggests that you need a minimum of three businesses open during the morning, afternoon and evenings. She explained this method serves both early risers wanting to get coffee and teachers wanting to get errands done after school dismisses.
No matter what method Taylor chooses, Vincent said downtown revitalization will have to come from doing the work themselves.
“Do not wait for a white knight to come in and save you, you can save yourself,” Vincent said. “That’s what every vibrant community has done.”
Rachael Westerman, the Taylor Chamber of Commerce’s membership and operations director, said they are looking at forming a working group to decide on a list of things that can get done next year.
The workshop was co-hosted by the Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce and the city of Taylor Main Street Association.
