MEGAN BEVINS
Reviving West Virginia ’ s Downtowns
Photo by Downtown Parkersburg .
Photo by Charleston Urban Works .
Photo by Downtown Parkersburg . Photo by RenewAll .
Throughout the Mountain State , revitalization efforts are bringing new life to downtown areas , helping transform them into vibrant hubs of community and commerce . Organizations like Main Street Martinsburg ( MSM ), RenewAll and Charleston Urban Works ( CUW ) are working to better their downtown areas with help from volunteers , sponsors and organizational partners .
Robby Blair , executive director of MSM , says his organization ’ s focus involves utilizing the historic element of Martinsburg to promote economic development in the city .
“ Our mission is to promote the historic preservation , protection and use of Martinsburg ’ s historic downtown area ,” Blair says . “ Our dedicated group of business and property owners , public officials , volunteers and citizens are committed to optimizing every dollar invested in our organization .”
This commitment is evident in the broad spectrum of projects and events that MSM organizes , offering fun-filled activities for tourists and drawing in visitors . While MSM receives funding from city and county municipalities , these events are also a main source of income for the organization .
“ We have many cultural events from concerts on the town square to our seasonal street fest , St . Patrick ’ s Day
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