In the heart of Sandusky, Ohio, something remarkable has been unfolding over the past decade. What was once a seasonal tourist town primarily known for Cedar Point has transformed into a vibrant year-round destination with a thriving downtown.

Luke Henry sits down with Eric Wobser and McKenzie Spriggs of the Greater Sandusky Partnership to uncover the strategic vision, practical tools, and collaborative spirit that fueled this renaissance. Their conversation reveals how combining public investment with private initiative created a powerful engine for community revitalization.

"Communities often think their challenges are unique and their assets are common, when the reality is the opposite," Eric shares, highlighting how Sandusky learned to celebrate its stunning waterfront location and historic downtown while addressing familiar post-industrial challenges. Through strategic tax initiatives that dedicated funds specifically for economic development, housing, and infrastructure, city leaders created a financial framework that made renovation of historic buildings financially viable.

McKenzie reveals the critical importance of strategic event programming to maximize business impact. "We chose Thursday night for Party at the Pier. Our businesses are already busy on Friday and Saturday. How do we start the weekend early?" This thoughtful approach to driving traffic when businesses need it most has helped extend Sandusky's season far beyond summer months.

The conversation doesn't shy away from challenges. Navigating resistance to change, balancing downtown investments with neighborhood needs, and developing local talent rather than importing solutions have all been part of Sandusky's journey. Yet through persistent communication, relationship building, and celebrating small wins, the community has maintained impressive forward momentum.

Whether you're a small business owner, local official, or community champion, this episode offers practical insights into how intentional collaboration can transform Main Streets anywhere. Listen now and discover how telling your community's story "from a place of strength" might just be the catalyst for your own local renaissance.

Guest Links:

https://www.facebook.com/GreaterSanduskyPartnership

Main Street Reimagined:

Facebook: facebook.com/MainStreetReimagined

The Main Street Reimagined Podcast, Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqfkmF5bRH0od1d3iiYKs3oEn_gvMYk7N



Henry Development Group:

Facebook: facebook.com/henrydevelopmentgroup

Website: www.henrydevelopmentgroup.com

Developing News Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/33110524eb5c/developing-news


Luke Henry:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/luhenry

Facebook: facebook.com/luke.henry.148

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