The DDA (Downtown Development Authority) in Windsor and Colorado Main Street worked together to conduct an Entertainment District Study. Through the results, Windsor was able to identify that restaurants located at the Windsor Mill were seeing the viability of implementing an entertainment district within the 300 block of the DDA boundaries. The study also provided background research and conceptual ideas that could expand streetscape enhancements, wayfinding improvements, and identify community needs that would build the entertainment district.
Although the momentum of revitalizing the Windsor Mill was beneficial for Windsor, challenges did appear. Windsor has a very unique downtown where two highways bisect the downtown district. A railway corridor creates a physical barrier, and a lake and park are located adjacent to the district. These features create tremendous opportunities for the entertainment district but also challenges when navigating the downtown area. With the help of Main Street, Windsor was able to reference the overarching vision presented in this study to move forward with individual component action steps.
Tip: It is important for any destination to have a safe, attractive, and inviting environment. Work with residents, visitors, and downtown businesses and property owners to identify needs through surveys and studies.