Why do communities with neglected downtowns struggle to attract businesses? How can small towns compete with manufactured lifestyle centers? Economic development expert Sean Hughes reveals the connection between downtown vitality and overall community success in this eye-opening conversation.

Drawing from over a decade of downtown revitalization experience, Hughes challenges conventional thinking about economic development. "Companies evaluating your community will inevitably visit your downtown," he explains. "If they see crumbling buildings and vacant storefronts, they immediately question: 'Why would you take care of us when you can't even take care of something that's been here for 200 years?'"

Hughes shares transformative strategies that turned Delaware, Ohio from a downtown with low-rent, subsidized spaces to a thriving district commanding triple the commercial rent rates. The secret? Treating each storefront as a strategic project, engaging building owners in the vision, and creating pathways for new investment.

Most provocatively, Hughes argues successful downtowns should flip traditional thinking: rather than relying on local residents for 70% of business, communities should target 70% from visitors and tourists. This approach injects new money into local economies while creating amenities residents love.

For community leaders, developers, and entrepreneurs, this episode offers a roadmap for downtown success that goes beyond beautification projects. You'll discover how "soft infrastructure" attracts workforce talent, why both young professionals and empty-nesters seek the same downtown amenities, and how to overcome the perennial "parking problem" by curating experiences that make walking enjoyable.

Whether you're reimagining your own Main Street or seeking insights on community development, this conversation provides both practical strategies and the inspiration to turn downtown potential into economic reality.

Guest Links:

https://www.facebook.com/CityofPowell

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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