Main Street Promise Project celebrates approved design, prepares for construction

VANCOUVER — The Main Street Promise Project, led by the city of Vancouver, will host its final informational open house event from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wed., Nov. 29 at the Vancouver Community Library (901 C Street) in the Columbia Room.

The event will showcase City Council-approved designs for downtown’s Main Street from 5th Street to 15th Street. The project team will also share preliminary construction plans, including timelines and potential impacts. Community input will help inform final construction plans and efforts to minimize impacts on businesses and visitors along the corridor. Construction of Main Street improvements is expected to begin in spring 2024. 

“This is a significant milestone for Main Street revitalization efforts,” said city of Vancouver Deputy Director of Economic Prosperity and Housing Chris Harder. “As we transition from planning to construction, we want to sincerely thank the community for all the time they have dedicated to this project. Together, we are ensuring Main Street meets the diverse needs of our community for the next century.” 

Over the past year, the Main Street design was developed and refined via community input gathered through presentations at more than 20 city and community boards and commissions meetings, five project advisory group meetings, two open house events and two community surveys. The project team also received feedback through numerous online and in-person interactions with property owners, businesses and community members, including those who walk, bike, roll, drive and use public transit along Main Street. 

Supporting Main Street businesses before, during and after construction is a top priority. Michael Lary, owner of the Source Climbing Center at 1118 Main Street, is one of 15 community members who serve on the project’s advisory group. 

“When this project is done, Main Street is going to be a place that’s more walkable and inviting,” said Lary. “I know there will be challenges during construction, but I am optimistic it will be worth it in the end.”

Project information will be available in English, Spanish and Russian during the Nov. 29 open house. If you need interpretation or assistance to participate, please email smallbusiness@cityofvancouver.us or call (360) 487-7940 by Nov. 20.

For more information about the Main Street Promise Project and opportunities for engagement, visit www.beheardvancouver.org/mainstreetpromise.

Information provided by city of Vancouver.