The Most Pivotal Time of the Year

Downtown Businesses in Troy are hanging on by a thread.

Today marks Small Business Saturday, a nationwide initiative urging us to support independent and local stores. Although it's ideal to back these businesses year-round, the significance of Small Business Saturday shines brighter as we enter the holiday season. It's a crucial step in fortifying our local economy, especially vital in the current challenging times.

Why Shop Local?
Spending locally is more than a purchase; it's an investment in our community. Research reveals that a substantial part of every dollar spent at local businesses stays within our economy, unlike expenditures at larger chains. This money bolsters our economic foundations, making our community more prosperous.

The Power of Local Networks
Small businesses often collaborate with other local entities, creating a robust economic network. This synergy not only sustains jobs but also enhances the stability of our job market.

Adding Character and Appeal
Beyond economics, small businesses imbue our community with uniqueness and charm, making it an attractive destination for tourists and potential residents. This diversity enriches our community's culture and economic health.

Personalized Services and Innovations
Small enterprises are known for their adaptability and customer-focused approach, offering personalized services and innovative products that larger chains may not.

A Critical Time for Support
Our local businesses, particularly in Downtown Troy, face unprecedented challenges due to a prolonged closure of West Main Street. This closure in particular has drastically reduced traffic and, consequently, customer footfall, severely impacting these businesses' revenue.

The latest data from the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission starkly contrasts with the observed decline in traffic. According to the MVRPC, as many as 18,000 vehicles per day travelled the intersection of West Main Street and Cherry Street. With the Main Street closure, that number has been dramatically reduced.

The reduced customer base has led to a dire situation, with many businesses experiencing a significant drop in sales. The looming threat of closures is real, and vacant storefronts could have lasting negative impacts on our community's vibrancy and stability.

A Call to Action
In the wake of these challenges, it's imperative we rally behind our small businesses. As we undergo significant infrastructure developments downtown, supporting these establishments becomes even more crucial. They are not just stores; they are the pillars of our community's identity and economy.

This Small Business Saturday, let's pledge to extend our support beyond just one day. Let's make a conscious effort to frequent these local businesses regularly. They need our support now more than ever to survive and thrive.

Thank you for engaging with today's Civic Capacity Newsletter. Please share this message to spread awareness and encourage others to join in bolstering our local economy.

Of course, please feel free to share your ideas and insights in the comment section.