Our Work

Accomplishments you can walk past today

More than two decades of projects - restored landmarks, reimagined spaces, brighter streets. Completed doesn't mean finished: every one of these requires ongoing care, which your support makes possible.

2000 → 2016

Factory Court

Originally a one-way outlet to North Main Street, our volunteers converted Factory Court into a pedestrian walkway with iron archways and a small performance stage. In 2016 we handed the baton to Revolution Taproom & Grill, who transformed it into one of downtown's most beautiful summer destinations - a perfect example of Main Street reimagining underutilized space and the community taking it to the next level.
2010

Parson Main Restoration

For years the Parson Main statue in Central Square was a weathered green copper sculpture. Our volunteers worked tirelessly to improve Central Square and restore and bronze Parson Main - work that earned a NH Preservation Alliance Award.
2022

Welcome to Downtown Sign

We installed the "Welcome to Downtown" sign in Central Square, right in the heart of downtown. Its letter board now promotes community events year-round.
2022

Riverwalk Bistro Tables

We lined the Cocheco Riverwalk with tables and chairs for residents and visitors to enjoy - for relaxation, outdoor dining, and reading by the river.
2023

Wyndotte Alley Deck & Archway

We contracted Houle Deck Builders to construct a deck over an underutilized garden bed, creating a space for live entertainment and outdoor dining. Volunteers added an iron archway at the North Main Street entrance, public art on the boarded windows, and graffiti-resistant coating on the accessible ramp.
2023

Downtown Speed Limit

We advocated before the Rochester Public Safety Committee for a reduced speed limit in the downtown corridor. The committee agreed and quickly installed several 25 MPH signs throughout the district.
Ongoing

Main Street Lights

In collaboration with the City of Rochester's Buildings and Grounds department, we installed Edison lights along North Main Street - making people feel more comfortable after dark, highlighting businesses, and adding vibrancy downtown.
Ongoing

Public Art

As fiscal sponsor for the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, and with the City's annual public art fund, we've helped install numerous murals and sculptures around downtown, adding variety and vibrancy to the visual landscape.

Project upkeep matters as much as project launches

Downtown improvements need ongoing care to stay safe, welcoming, and effective. The Wyndotte deck, murals, light strands, benches, planters, and decorations all face normal wear - and New England weather. Supporting maintenance protects past investments, shows funders and sponsors that completed projects are thoughtfully managed, and keeps downtown vibrant for years to come.

Support project upkeep