With our very own business on Main Street (Hannah Grimes Marketplace), we know that Keene’s upcoming downtown reconstruction project is on the minds of business owners and entrepreneurs in our community. Last month, we leveraged our national network to host a Radically Rural Roundtable exploring the impact of similar projects on rural downtowns across the country. View the recording for tips and tricks from community leaders Mary Hodson (Hutchinson, MN), Andrea Powers (Hot Springs, SD), and Mandy Hegwood (Laurel, MS) who have been there, done that when it comes to Main Street construction. Keep reading for highlights specifically relevant to business owners.

Tips & Tricks for Downtown Business Owners

• Think about using back entrances and the updates you’ll have to make for that to be feasible (ADA compliance, aesthetics, wayfinding, etc.).
• Be creative about driving customers to your business. One coffee shop in Laurel, MS delivered coffee to construction crews first thing in the morning, oftentimes resulting in repeat customers throughout the day.
• Work with other business owners. If your business isn’t impacted by construction, host a pop-up for another business that is.
• Host a friendly competition like cardboard sign wars to build community and better wayfinding.
• Post video tours of your parking lots and entrances, especially if they’re impacted by construction. Help your regulars find you.

We hope these insights from experienced community leaders offer helpful guidance as the project approaches. Hannah Grimes is here to support local businesses—don’t hesitate to reach out as you plan ahead.

Written by Program & Development Coordinator, Lillian Chase.