Kennedy Street Business and Development Association Launches – “tremendous potential for Kennedy Street to thrive”

Photo of Taqueria Distrito Federal at 805 Kennedy St, NW by PoPville flickr user rockcreek

“Dear PoPville,

We know you’ve hosted conversations about new developments on Kennedy Street NW in the past, so we thought you might be willing to share an update about some exciting movement on the street:

We’ve recently formed the Kennedy Street Business and Development Association (KSBDA), an all-volunteer, grass-roots movement of current and prospective business owners, as well as a handful of residents with interest in commercial development on the street.  We’re still in the early stages of forming our identity, but we have all come together because we see the tremendous potential for Kennedy Street to thrive, and we think that together we can make it happen.  The KSBDA hopes to create a unified voice for those interested in seeing Kennedy Street grow; to lead promotions that draw attention to the street’s current businesses and make Kennedy a more walk-able and vibrant strip that attracts new businesses; and to help mobilize resources and expertise that aid existing businesses to better respond to the desires of the community.

Last week, about a dozen members made it to the first meeting, which was graciously hosted by Culture Coffee at 709 Kennedy Street NW.  The folks who came contributed their thoughts, needs, and vision for the street and what KSBDA should focus on; a core team that had done door-to-door visits to businesses in advance also shared input from those who could not attend in person. This initial gathering of opinions found that entrepreneurs are excited about the future, and there is room for lots of positive growth.  The current business owners involved noted that sales have increased in recent years after the hardest part of the recession, and that crime is down, making this a great time for Kennedy Street to fulfill its potential.  We’re optimistic that with the attention and resources that the city is devoting to improving the street, along with energy and commitment from businesses and residents, great things can – and will – happen.

Interested residents can check out our Facebook page to see the latest developments, and we’re inviting anyone who tweets about Kennedy-related news to use the hashtag #KennedyStreetNW.  Anyone with an interest in volunteering or contributing to KSBDA’s efforts can sign up here.  Perhaps most importantly, we’re launching a resident survey, which should help to collect some vital data on what residents near Kennedy Street need and want, so that business owners can make informed decisions when investing.  We’d love for all of your interested readers to fill out the survey, which can be accessed here.”