Workshops

"Scott Day was really helpful because [he] commented on the [store's] name and about how it should convey a more fun, colorful, kid sound. He also talked about what we could do to change our windows and that we shouldn't have all of our bestsellers right as you walk in. As a result, sales have gone up in the last few months, especially for toys and books." Robin Hendrix Co-Owner Totally Kids, Winstead CT

Working With Local Zoning and Building Codes

Often new construction or building rehabilitation is dictated by building zoning codes that are set up for development occurring outside of downtowns.  This technical assistance visit looks at such things as:

• Surface parking requirements;
• Allowing residential development on second floor and prohibiting it on first floor;
• How downtown's sign guidelines are different from suburban guidelines;
• Retaining the commercial edge to the streetscape; and
• Prohibiting auto-oriented businesses such as drive-through banks, car washes, etc., from encroaching upon the pedestrian, commercial streetscape. 

Downtown has a special set of design considerations for proper in-fill construction and building rehabilitation.  These design criteria need to be reflected in the local codes to insure that new construction is compatible and downtown retains its sense of place.