Downtown Ashland is the heart of Ashland, Virginia. In the epicenter of local commerce, culture, and community, Downtown Ashland Association catalyzes economic growth and placemaking initiatives.
The Association has just been accredited by Main Street America for its tenth year. On this anniversary, we are proud to release a report of the Association’s achievements, events, and community support in 2023.
Business Initiatives: Empowering Entrepreneurs
We cultivate independent local businesses that support the economic development vision of the community. Our goal is to support entrepreneurs and create a resilient downtown economy.
2023 Highlights
$100,000 grant for Entrepreneurship Initiatives
1,672 Downtown Business Updates utilized by business owners
Expansive Marketing Reach: Putting Ashland on the Map
We promote Downtown Ashland as a day trip destination to customers throughout the Richmond regino. Our goal is to attract new visitors who become repeat customers.
2023 Highlights
8 million media impressions earned for Downtown Ashland
2.6 million media impressions for the Secretariat Monument
2 million media impressions for Ashland Train Day
1 million media impressions for Light Up the Tracks
Community-Centric Events: Uniting Ashland's Residents
We work to make our historic downtown the center of community life. We cultivate downtown to be inclusive, authentic, and exciting--just like our community.
Our goal is for residents and customers to be engaged and invested in our shared future.
2023 Highlights
271,000 visits to the Downtown Ashland tourism website
23,000 visitors to Ashland Train Day
18,000 Get Centered newsletters read by email subscribers
Placemaking Projects: Shaping the Future of Downtown
We encourage customers in Downtown Ashland to stay a while with welcoming public spaces and community connection
2023 Highlights
$75,000 grant for Downtown Design Guidelines
5,000 volunteer hours donated by our community
In Conclusion: A Year of Resilience and Progress
As the pages of the annual report turn, one thing becomes abundantly clear: Downtown Ashland Association's unwavering dedication to driving progress and fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
Through strategic initiatives, vibrant events, and thoughtful placemaking projects, the Association continues to position Downtown Ashland as a premier destination for commerce, culture, and community.