not gained the designation yet . RenewAll is unique , however , because despite being an ON TRAC community , it hosts a full-time staff , owns property in the district and has a broad focus on the West Huntington neighborhood .
“ The West Huntington neighborhood features the Central City Business District , a historic industrial town that is now part of the City of Huntington ,” Kemp says . “ RenewAll aims to bring new resources and connect people so that development projects benefit local people and contribute to a better quality of life .”
RenewAll recently transformed Central City Gazebo Park from a barren lawn into a lush public space equipped with trees , café tables and upgraded utilities for running food trucks . It is also putting the final touches on a public art installation , supported by a T-Mobile Hometown grant and featuring two kinetic sculptures by artist Becky Borlan .
The organization also supports local businesses through coordinated promotions and support of events and improvement projects . In 2020 , it opened the Central City Museum , which highlights the area ’ s history and preserves its artifacts .
To help bring awareness to small businesses , RenewAll hosts a weekly newsletter as well as media to introduce them to potential guests .
“ West Virginia has the potential to grow , and RenewAll is working to strengthen the West Huntington community so people have great places to live , work and visit ,” Kemp says . “ Through a combination of entrepreneurship and tourism development , RenewAll is making an impact on West Virginia ’ s economy .”
In Charleston , CUW , which emerged after a rebranding of Charleston Main Streets to better reflect the needs of small businesses , serves the East End and West Side business districts . CUW focuses on four objectives : business development and advancement , marketing and development , public space enhancement and increased engagement . Each of these categories contains its own working group .
CUW is currently working on the West Side Gateway Lighting Initiative , which will revolutionize public lighting in the area with funding from several foundations and the Appalachian Regional Commission . The organization also focuses on enhancing public spaces and supporting business development through initiatives like its new business and property owner survey , which will help shape long-term work plans and goals through 2027 .
Ric Cavender , executive director of CUW , emphasizes the economic impact of its events , which draw visitors from across the country and generate substantial revenue for local businesses through increased tourism .
“ Our fundraising events have brought in people from 24 states since 2015 — these people spend a lot of money on hotels , local restaurants , breweries and retail sites ,” Cavender says .
CUW received municipal funding from the City of Charleston , as well as through fundraisers Foam at the Dome , OktoberWest and the Capital Crawl . CUW also works with over 100 corporate sponsors and receives grant funding .
As these organizations ’ initiatives continue to develop , they paint a promising picture for the future of West Virginia ’ s urban sector . •