Committees

The Better Bennington Corporation is the lead organization which coordinates public and private efforts to maintain Downtown Bennington as the commercial, cultural and governmental heart of the community.

The BBC uses the National Main Street Program four point approach of Design, Economic Development, Marketing and Promotion and Organization. Each part of the strategy strengthens the downtown's economy, fosters the continued use of existing commercial buildings and promotes and preserves downtown Bennington's unique assets.

BBC also has three additional committees to work towards the mission. Those are the Recruitment, Retention and Arts & Entertainment Committees.

BBC Mission

A membership-based community wide organization, the BBC partners with Town Government and numerous other organizations through its Board of Directors and Executive Director to achieve its Mission to coordinate and direct resources - human and financial, public and private - in support of a vital downtown. These efforts are made to advance the Vision for Bennington Downtown - Vermont's Main Street Experience: the Place for Vermont products, crafts and antiques; a Hub for recreation and entertainment; a Home for artistic and cultural activities; an Experience rich in American history and hometown heritage; a Center for business, civic activity and downtown living.

Design

An attractive, functional and safe downtown are the goals of the design strategy. The BBC oversees ongoing implementation of a comprehensive streetscape plan including lighting, street furnishings, informational signage, sidewalk improvements, promotional banners and holiday decorations. The BBC's Bennington in Bloom is a community supported program of floral planting throughout the downtown. The BBC administers a Design Assistance Program to support facade improvements within the Design Review District. BBC also consults with the Town to design and implement traffic and parking improvements. More information about the Design Committee.

Economic Development

Full occupancy, re-use of existing historic buildings and a vital community center are the goals of the economic development strategy. BBC actively supports the retention of existing businesses and the recruitment of new businesses by coordinating and publicizing educational programs, maintaining a downtown space inventory and providing a business recruitment package with current market information. More information about the Economic Development Committee.

Marketing & Promotion

Effectively promoting downtown is the goal of the BBC marketing strategy. The BBC maintains an information Kiosk at Putnam Square and a web site; sponsors and/or promotes special events. The Marketing & Promotion committee also promotes new, expanding or relocating businesses. More informaiton about the Marketing & Promotion Committee.

Organization

Providing the structure and coordination for the effective and efficient implementation of the downtown revitalization strategy is the organizational goal. Collaboration with public and private sectors through expanded partnerships is a critical part of fulfilling this goal. More information about the Organization Committee.