Over 100 attend NDD annual meeting, first look at promotional video unveiled

NEWPORT — More than 100 residents, business owners and community stakeholders packed The East Side Restaurant & Pub on Thursday evening for Newport Downtown Development’s annual meeting, reflecting strong public interest in the organization’s downtown revitalization efforts.

The September 25 gathering marked one of the organization’s largest turnouts, according to Felicia Updyke, associate director of Newport Downtown Development.

“Seeing over 100 people dedicate their time to our downtown is profoundly encouraging,” Updyke said. “It reinforces our belief that a strong downtown is a collective effort, and the energy in the room was palpable.”

The evening’s centerpiece was the premiere of a new promotional video designed to attract visitors and businesses to Newport. The video, which will serve as a cornerstone of the organization’s marketing strategy, received enthusiastic applause from attendees.

Stephanie Clarke of White and Burke delivered a presentation on strategic planning for downtown economic development, outlining actionable steps and collaborative models intended to strengthen the local commercial landscape and promote sustainable growth. The firm has been working with Newport Downtown Development on a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) feasibility study, according to the organization’s annual report.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the nonprofit to showcase its accomplishments from the past year, including a 201% increase in revenue to $541,300, driven largely by grant funding that jumped from $83,200 to $427,800.

Key projects highlighted in the organization’s annual report include approval of a new Master Plan by the Newport City Council, installation of 11 illuminated sculptures designed by North Country Career Center students throughout downtown, and coordination of $200,000 in Vermont Outdoor Recreation Committee grants distributed to 10 local organizations.

The organization also reported progress on housing initiatives, expansion of community events including the Winter Saturdays Series and Forage & Flourish Festival, and continued work on the East Main Street house project being renovated by career center students.

Newport Mayor Rick Ufford-Chase, who also serves as executive director, acknowledged in the annual report that while strategic planning is advancing, visible downtown transformation may take five to ten years. He emphasized immediate priorities including filling vacant storefronts and supporting existing businesses with workforce challenges.

Newport Downtown Development operates as a 501(c)3 organization working to revitalize historic downtown Newport as an economic hub and community center. The organization’s full annual report is available at discovernewportvt.com/about-newport.

The nonprofit is supported by sponsors including a $25,000 lead gift from The Pomerleau Foundation, along with contributions from Galvion, Community National Bank and numerous local businesses.