Artonomics: How Arts and Culture Reignite Downtowns

Artists are often the first to reclaim forgotten places. Long before major redevelopment occurs, creative communities bring life, identity, and activity back into underutilized buildings and neglected corridors. This session explores how visual and performing arts communities have played a critical role in the revitalization of Downtowns and the reactivation of the Main Street corridor. From galleries and maker spaces to live performance venues and public art initiatives, attendees will gain insight into how arts and culture can function not simply as entertainment, but as an economic development strategy capable of driving foot traffic, entrepreneurship, placemaking, and neighborhood identity.