As a newly established nonprofit, Urbanna Main Street has hit the ground running. Over the past year, we’ve taken important steps to lay the foundation for a more vibrant, connected, and economically thriving future for our port town. From events that bring the community together to strategic planning and beautification efforts, we’re proud to share some highlights from our journey so far.
What We’ve Accomplished
🕯️ Holiday Home Tours
For two consecutive years, we’ve hosted the Urbanna Holiday Home Tour, a community-driven event that showcases our town’s charm through decorated historic homes and local businesses. It’s become a festive tradition that draws visitors, supports our merchants, and builds community spirit.
📜 Official Nonprofit Status
Thanks to pro bono legal support from Troutman Pepper, Urbanna Main Street became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit—an important milestone that opens doors to grant opportunities and greater impact.
🎄 Holiday Flags Project
We designed and installed custom holiday flags throughout town to brighten our streets and create a welcoming, festive atmosphere during the winter season.
📈 Strategic Planning Session
In March 2025, we held a two-day strategic planning retreat with guidance from an out-of-town facilitator. Together, we refined our mission and vision and set a five-year plan to guide Urbanna Main Street’s growth and role in the community.
🎨 Mural Project
We’re actively working on our first public art project—a mural designed by artist Tommy Fox that will celebrate Urbanna’s history and culture. A digital concept is currently in progress, and we’re preparing for public announcement and fundraising soon.
🔧 Branding Strategy
We’re nearing completion of a comprehensive branding strategy for Urbanna Main Street, ensuring that all of our materials—from signage to social media—reflect a cohesive and compelling identity.
🚶 Wayfinding Grant Application
We’ve submitted a grant application for new wayfinding signs to improve navigation and visibility around town for both visitors and residents.
🌍 Main Street America Conference
In April, two of our board members attended the Main Street America Conference in Philadelphia, returning with new ideas and inspiration for small-town revitalization.
What Guides Us: The Main Street Approach
Urbanna Main Street is proud to be part of Virginia Main Street’s “Exploring Main Street” tier—a key step toward full Main Street designation. The Main Street Approach™, developed by the National Main Street Center, is a community-based model for revitalizing historic commercial districts through local engagement, economic development, and preservation.
At the heart of this approach are four key points:
- Economic Vitality
- Design
- Promotion
- Organization
These principles help towns like ours create a clear, strategic path for growth—one that’s locally informed, collaborative, and deeply rooted in our identity.
Virginia’s Main Street Program, supported by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), has helped open or expand more than 8,200 businesses and generate over $2.3 billion in public and private investment across the Commonwealth. We’re proud to be a part of this movement—and excited to write our chapter.
Looking Ahead
Our next goals include hiring a part-time executive director, finalizing mural plans, launching our new website, and continuing to advocate for thoughtful growth and community engagement in Urbanna. Whether it’s through public art, walkable streets, or stronger local business support, we’re committed to building a Main Street that reflects the heart of Urbanna—where history meets modern charm.
We hope you’ll join us for what’s ahead.
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