The city's Main Street Association just issued its first newsletter publicizing some of the people and events happening in the city center. Now, its director Erin Rodgers talks about the nonprofit:
What is the purpose of the East Point Main Street organization?
Erin Rodgers: The East Point Main Street Association (EPMSA) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization made up of nine board members who are residents or business owners. The board’s mission is to “To preserve and enhance the downtown area as the heart of East Point, communicating a sense of place, community pride and heritage, while providing for a successful business and residential environment.”
What are the strengths of the city's downtown and how is the organization building on them? What does the organization envisions as success for downtown?
ER: One of the strengths of the city’s downtown are the historic buildings we have and the amount of available land that allows for future expansion. Many city’s downtowns have a limited number of buildings or available space, however, our downtown boasts a large footprint and therefore, endless future possibilities. The ultimate success for downtown will be when it “fills out” to its full potential and becomes a thriving downtown district full of businesses, residents and visitors alike.
What challenges do you face in promoting the downtown area? How can residents help overcome those challenges?
ER: Currently, one of the biggest challenges for downtown East Point, like many cities, is the current economy. As I mentioned above, we have a tremendous supply of available buildings and land for new businesses/developments, we are located just 5 minutes from I-75/85, I-285 and the busiest international airport in the nation and we are only 9 miles from downtown Atlanta – we have so much going for us! However, new businesses and developers are being very cautious these days and they want to see figures/numbers that support bringing their business to East Point (density figures, income levels in the area neighborhoods, etc.- so be sure to fill out your 2010 census!!) and they want to see incentives to take that risk in this volatile market. As residents, you can encourage others to be patrons of our downtown area businesses, show a potential home buyer the area, show your support by attending events downtown. . .basically just get involved! The better our current businesses do, the more attractive downtown becomes to potential new businesses.
What type of establishment does downtown East Point need at this point?
ER: Well that is the purpose of the new neighborhood survey on the www.downtowneastpoint.com website- if you haven’t already, send one in today! A few of the most requested establishments are as follows: Grocery Store, Theatre/Performance Hall, Indoor Farmer’s Market and Coffee House.
Can you tell us a little about the survey? What will it be used for?
ER: The survey will be used to prioritize what residents feel are the most important downtown issues that need to be addressed. Your opinion matters! Send one in today.
If you haven't already, take a few moments and fill out this four page survey to help guide the development of Main Street. Email your responses or mail the completed survey to:
East Point Main Street Association
Attn: Main Street/Downtown Development Manager
1526 East Forrest Ave., Suite 400
East Point, Georgia 30344
