“As evidenced by the recently adopted Vision and Mission statements, the Buda Main Street Advisory Board is committed to promoting Downtown Buda while enhancing the overall “Main Street” experience,” Main Street Advisory Board Chair, Matthew Wright said.
The Buda Main Street Advisory Board defined their role in downtown revitalization efforts by adopting a vision and mission statement for the organization at their last meeting.
Vision Statement: A vibrant downtown that connects community, visitors, and business
Mission statement: Enhance Downtown Buda while maintaining its historic roots
The vision statement will guide the organization as it identifies transformation initiatives for Downtown Buda. The mission statement represents what the community loves about Downtown and will focus on enhancing it by supporting smart growth initiatives.
“As evidenced by the recently adopted Vision and Mission statements, the Buda Main Street Advisory Board is committed to promoting Downtown Buda while enhancing the overall “Main Street” experience,” Main Street Advisory Board Chair, Matthew Wright said. “We look forward to a lasting partnership with Buda residents, business owners, and visitors as we continue working to make Buda a destination for all.”
In May, the Main Street Program conducted a Design Your Downtown survey to obtain feedback from the community about priorities for the program. The survey’s respondents felt the small town charm, historic buildings, parks and heritage trees were some of Downtown Buda’s greatest assets. They also felt that the board should focus on the restoration and preservation of Downtown Buda’s historic buildings, and enhance pedestrian access by improving sidewalks and crosswalks.
Based on these findings, the board designed the core focus of the organization. The Advisory Board will begin with four key projects that align with the four-point approach utilized by Main Street programs across the country.
- Create a grant program that prioritizes resources for the restoration and beautification of historic downtown buildings through a partnership with the Buda Economic Development Corporation.
- Focus on Bond Proposition 3 (street improvements) and the future design of the streetscape. This may include placement of planters, types of trees, benches and bike rack design.
- Create an event specifically centered in downtown, work with existing events in and near downtown, and conduct clever social media campaigns to draw visitors to the downtown area.
- Focus on partnerships necessary to create a more vibrant downtown. This group will assist in building partnerships, finding volunteers and connecting with individuals, businesses and organizations to enhance the downtown area.
Main Street Program Manager, Maggie Gillespie said, “Downtown revitalization change is incremental by nature. In Downtown Buda, we are seeing something spectacular; there is a buzz around the future of downtown that we are all excited to be a part of.” “In the month of August, six new businesses have opened or will open by the end of the month and a couple more are expected to open in the fall. “We welcome these new businesses to downtown,” continued Maggie, “They each offer something unique while collectively with the existing businesses and events are creating more memorable experiences for everyone.”
The full work plan for the 2017-2018 fiscal year will be determined at the September Advisory Board meeting. Community members who are interested in sitting on one of the project committees and would like to offer input are encouraged to email the Main Street Program office at mgillespie@ci.buda.tx.us or by calling 512.523.1075.
Volunteers should live or work in Buda and must want to create a more vibrant downtown together.