City officials participate in ‘Nourishing Downtown’ training

Waynesboro Councilwoman Nancy Dowdy and Waynesboro Downtown Development, Inc. Director Kimberly Watters participated last week in a Virginia Main Street training program in Culpeper focusing on how food-based enterprises play a role in downtown revitalization.

The ‘Nourishing Downtown’ program promoted the idea of downtown restaurants and farmers’ markets aiding in revitalizing downtown areas.

Todd J. Barman, an expert on economic restructuring with the National Trust Main Street Center was the keynote speaker.  Alisa Bailey, president and chief executive officer of the Virginia Tourism Corporation, followed with an introduction to Culinary Tourism, a new opportunity for visitors to experience local food and personalities.  Melissa Wiley with the Piedmont Environmental Council closed the training with a powerful tool to promote local foods through “Buy Fresh, Buy Local” marketing campaigns.

“The Nourishing Downtown training had many direct, helpful take-aways that stressed the importance of food-based businesses on the economic health of downtown, while also providing the tools to support and attract them.” said Diane Logan, executive director of Culpeper Renaissance, Inc.

Currently there are 21 designated Virginia Main Street Communities and more than 70 DHCD Commercial District Affiliates.  Waynesboro received its Main Street designation in 2000. 

“Main Street trainings are always worthwhile for new ideas and networking about revitalization strategies,” Watters said. “With our new farmers’ market, this training was particularly timely.  It was excellent for Ms. Dowdy to attend and see just how valuable the Virginia Main Street program is.”