Explaining the Main Street program that towns across Pennsylvania and the nation have used to revitalize their traditional downtowns, a consultant told Narberth’s council earlier this year that the essential first factor is identifying a “critical mass” of community interest and ready volunteers.

If the line out the door at Borough Hall last week is an indication, Narberth could have both in abundance, writes Cheryl Allison for Main Line Media News.

[uam_ad id=”54865″]

More than 100 residents and business and property owners turned out Nov. 30 for a workshop to introduce the Main Street concept as a potential boost for the Haverford Avenue business district.

While Borough Council has not committed to the approach, the 2 ½-hour session was a first step to respond to interest – and some concerns – that have been sparked in the past year, with the closing of longtime downtown fixture Mapes 5 and 10 and anticipated retirements at two other “anchor” stores.

The workshop was led by Donna Ann Harris of Heritage Consulting Inc., who has worked with Ardmore and some other area communities on revitalization and retail strategies.

Participants met in small groups, rotating to different tables, to brainstorm on the strengths and weaknesses of today’s downtown, the obstacles to revitalization it may face, and the opportunities that may exist to strengthen and renew the district while honoring its historic character.

Opening the meeting, council President Aaron Muderick acknowledged the strong feelings residents have about their downtown. “We all moved here because [Narberth] is different from other places,” and the retail district is a part of that distinction,” Muderick said.

Economic Development Committee Chairman Marlene Richmond said the night was the start of a discussion. “This is not a one-time meeting,” she emphasized. “It’s a process.”

for the complete story click here.

[uam_ad id=”54875″]