Work
Community Revitalization
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we have been dedicated to community revitalization and historic preservation for the EDGE District. Our work has centered on planning, promoting and advocating for the district. Our committees and programs focus on Organization, Design, Economic Vitality and Promotion, and we work in partnership with our local businesses and government.
Foundational Plans
We formed in 2014 because our district was blighted. We used the Main Street approach to implement an ambitious revitalization and preservation plan. We started by:
• Rebranding the district as the “EDGE” – as an acronym for Entertainment, Dining, Galleries & shops, and Etcetera, and to reflect our character and industrial heritage;
• Spearheading creation of the EDGE District Improvement Plan to guide future development and district projects;
• Starting the EDGE District History Project to collect and preserve the history of the district.
We have continued to work on projects serving all of these original initiatives. Today, the EDGE is one of the most desirable places to live, work, and play.
Advocacy
Our work includes a large focus on advocacy. Representing the EDGE District, our staff serves on a number of local and regional committees. We advocate for the district on a variety of matters that impact us, from regulations, to development impact, to funding, building preservation, environmental improvements, parking & transportation, utility management, and business assistance. Our successful advocacy includes:
• the EDGE District Improvement Plan
• the 10-year extension and amendments to the Intown West CRA Plan
• increases in district public parking
• the new EDGE District Public Parking Garage (completion 2023)
• the Baum Avenue shared compactor stations
• the EDGE District Gateway Sculptures
• the 11th Street Roundabout Sculpture and Improvements
• new district banners
• new street furnishings
• the preservation of 900 Central (our oldest district building)
• EDGE District Specialty Center status (for managed open-carry events)
Our Committees
Organization
This committee provides support for our members, volunteers & staff, and helps with friendraising and fundraising.
Promotions
This committee identifies key district assets to promote, creates district-wide events, and helps with other promotional campaigns.
Design
This committee spearheads district design planning, implementation, and encourages improvements in private and public district spaces.
Economic Vitality
This committee monitors the district’s economy, and provides business networking and educational opportunities.