DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Downtown Readied for Revitalization Have a favorite local spot for shopping, dining or services in Lebanon? Chances are you might know the owner or an employee personally; they’re a neighbor, friend or family member, or you’ve been going there for so long you’re not even sure how you first met. There are a number of intriguing places in Downtown Lebanon. Many of these small businesses have been around for years, some for decades, and new places are popping up and quickly gaining popularity with local residents and neighboring communities as well. Cities, large and small, have increased in popularity in the U.S. over the past few years, especially with millennials and Gen Z, who have a tendency to appreciate the minimalist trends and economical opportunities of living and/or working in the city. Lebanon city’s population is 26,814, per the U.S. Census Bureau, and its downtown boasts a collection of historic buildings, quaint housing, and a plethora of diverse businesses, from coffee shops and hair salons to restaurants and hobby shops. There are churches, banks, furniture stores, specialty boutiques, cafés, a brewery, farmers market and more. What else makes Downtown Lebanon special? “It’s the community,” answered Pam Shirk, Main Street manager for Downtown Lebanon. “We have great business leaders, nonprofits, and community support …it’s a beautiful city with some amazing architecture. It has so much potential.” A feature story from The Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University, by William Fulton, suggests that post pandemic cities may look different; noting that bigger cities are out and small cities are in as they are less expensive and perceived to be places of opportunity. The article also notes a probable increase in city residents and meeting places. This is good news for small continued on page 6
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Lebanon Valley Chamber of Commerce
