Clayton, North Carolina
Strategic Success
Selfies, Signage & Social Districts
Project Scope
Downtown Clayton, North Carolina has seen remarkable progress since partnering with Downtown Strategies to strengthen and revitalize its downtown core. The partnership included developing a 5-Year Strategic Action Plan and providing two years of implementation support, funded in partnership with ElectriCities of North Carolina. Through a practical, action-oriented approach, Clayton gained a clear roadmap that laid the groundwork for visible improvements and lasting success.
From Plans to Action
Deliverables & Technical Assistance
- Delivered a Property Owner Training & Toolkit (window signs, downtown flyer)
- Facilitated the development of a custom branding package with Arnett Muldrow & Associates
- Worked with DDA Design Committee on the development of a “selfie wall” mural to showcase updated branding.
- Worked with the DDA Organization Committee to develop a Volunteer Toolkit
- Provided monthly technical assistance and support calls to our Point of Contact
- Facilitated monthly 30/30 Meetings with two Action Teams during the planning and jumpstart phases of their projects.
Impacts & Outcomes
- Installed custom streetlight banners
- Developing an updated wayfinding signage system
- Created a variety of Downtown Clayton merchandise featuring the updated branding package
- Updated Façade Grant to include vibrancy elements like signage and outdoor dining.
- Launched a Vibrancy Grant
- Developed branded sandwich board signs as part of the Vibrancy Grant
- Installed sidewalk stickers as a wayfinding and tourism tool
- Established a downtown social district
- Hosted a seasonal storefront decorating contest to encourage the activation of downtown storefronts
Partnership Timeline
Partnership Began
July, 2022Strategic Visioning Workshop
September, 2022Market Analysis Delivered
November, 2022Strategic Action Plan Delivered
November, 2022Implementation Support
March, 2023 - July, 2025A Vibrant Downtown
We've Been in Your Shoes
The partnership between Downtown Strategies and Clewiston has transformed a dormant CRA into a proactive force for downtown revitalization. Through strategic planning and hands-on support, the community is on track to unveil a selfie wall mural in Summer 2025, celebrating its agricultural roots and inviting visitors to experience “America’s Sweetest Town.” This success demonstrates the power of small-scale, community-driven projects to spark lasting change.
We are a team of former practitioners.
- Main Street Director
- Tourism Director
- Community Development Director
- Main Street Board of Directors Chairperson
- Tourism Board of Directors Chairperson
- Design Committee Chairperson
- Volunteer
- Planning and Zoning Commissioner
- Board of Directors Member
- Downtown Association Member
