West Chester, PA: A Thriving Downtown

Nestled in the heart of Chester County, Pennsylvania, the borough of West Chester has emerged as a shining example of what a vibrant and successful downtown should be. This charming community, with a population of 18,461 as of the 2010 census, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, thanks in large part to the tireless efforts of its dedicated citizens, business owners, and local organizations.

West Chester’s rich history and stunning Victorian architecture provide a picturesque backdrop for the bustling activity that fills its streets. The borough’s commitment to historic preservation has ensured that over 4,200 structures are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, giving the town a unique character and sense of place that is hard to find elsewhere.

In the 1980s, West Chester faced the challenges that many small towns across America encountered – the rise of shopping malls and the decline of family-owned businesses. However, the community refused to let their beloved downtown fade away. Instead, they came together to reinvent and revitalize the area, planting the seeds for the thriving downtown we see today.

One of the key factors in West Chester’s success has been the implementation of the Main Street Approach, a comprehensive strategy for downtown revitalization developed by the National Main Street Center. The community customized this approach to fit their specific needs, focusing on four key areas: economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization.

The West Chester Business Improvement District (BID) has played a crucial role in the downtown’s revitalization. Property owners within the district pay an assessment that supports the BID’s efforts, which include attracting new businesses, providing grants for façade improvements, and organizing events that draw people to the area. The BID’s business attraction committee works closely with entrepreneurs, guiding them through the process of opening and establishing a successful business in the downtown.

The results of these efforts are clear. West Chester now boasts a thriving economy, with around 10,000 to 12,000 employees working in the borough, most of them right in the downtown area. The commercial buildings, particularly the historic ones, feature living quarters above the first floor, creating over 300 market-rate apartments that allow residents to live and work within walking distance. This walkability is a key feature of West Chester’s success, with a walkability score of around 97 that puts people on the sidewalks and creates a vibrant, lively atmosphere.

West Chester’s commitment to historic preservation has been another essential element in its revitalization. By preserving and adapting historic buildings, the community has maintained its unique character and charm. The Warner Hotel, for example, was once a beloved theater that had fallen into disrepair. Instead of demolishing the structure, the community rebuilt it, blending new construction with the historic lobby to create a beautiful and functional space that feels like it has always been a part of the town’s fabric.

The borough’s success has not gone unnoticed. In 2017, West Chester was named the winner of the Great American Main Street Award, a prestigious honor that recognizes exceptional Main Street communities across the nation. This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and vision of the people who have made West Chester’s revitalization a reality.

Today, West Chester is a thriving, vibrant community that offers the best of both worlds – the amenities and opportunities of a city, combined with the charm and character of a small Victorian town. Its success story serves as an inspiration to other communities looking to revitalize their downtowns and create a better future for their residents.

As West Chester continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to the principles and strategies that have brought it this far. With its strong sense of community, dedication to historic preservation, and focus on economic vitality, there is no doubt that West Chester will continue to thrive and serve as a model for other Main Street communities across the country.