The Town of Bedford, Virginia is charting an exciting new course for its historic downtown. Backed by a $50,000 USDA grant, Bedford has partnered with Downtown Strategies, a division of Retail Strategies, to launch a five-year revitalization plan designed to strengthen the community’s core, support local businesses, and attract new visitors.
Why Downtown Matters
Downtowns are more than just business districts — they are the heart of a community. They shape first impressions, foster civic pride, and provide spaces where residents and visitors connect. For Bedford, downtown is central to both its identity and economic vitality.
As Mary Zirkle, Economic Development Coordinator for the Town of Bedford, explained:
“Downtown is the heart of our community, and this plan ensures Bedford continues to be a vibrant place for residents, visitors, and businesses.”
With nearly 40,000 visitors in 2024, Bedford is building on strong momentum to ensure its downtown continues to thrive in the years ahead.
A Holistic Five-Year Vision
The revitalization plan addresses four key pillars of downtown development:
- Policy: Establishing guidelines that align with long-term community goals.
- Design: Enhancing the look and feel of downtown through streetscape improvements, lighting, and public art.
- Tourism: Leveraging Bedford’s unique assets to draw more visitors and strengthen the local economy.
- Economic Vitality: Supporting local businesses and creating a fertile environment for new investment.
Specific projects will include public art installations, improved lighting, expanded use of the Bedford Farmers Market, and stronger visibility tools for small businesses. Together, these efforts aim to create a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere that benefits both residents and visitors.
Long-Term Impact
This initiative is about more than beautification — it’s about economic growth. By strengthening its downtown, Bedford is positioning itself to:
- Attract new businesses that align with community needs.
- Increase sales tax revenues that support local services.
- Create a vibrant sense of place that draws people to live, work, and visit.
Looking Ahead
The partnership with Downtown Strategies is a proactive investment in Bedford’s future. With a clear roadmap and community collaboration, Bedford is taking deliberate steps toward building a downtown that reflects its history while embracing modern opportunities.
By aligning vision with action, Bedford is proving that small communities can make big strides — creating a downtown that will thrive for generations to come.
