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North Bend Downtown Foundation outlines events, business support and Main Street bid
Summary
The North Bend Downtown Foundation presented its annual report May 6, detailing volunteer‑driven events, a downtown bucks gift‑certificate program, mural projects and a push to achieve Washington Main Street designation in 2025.
The North Bend Downtown Foundation presented its 2024–25 annual report to the City Council on May 6, detailing promotions, murals, volunteer programs and an effort to secure Washington Main Street designation.
Brian Davis, foundation president, and Jessica, the foundation’s executive director, told the council the nonprofit has increased social media reach, expanded community events and launched new marketing efforts aimed at keeping visitor dollars in downtown. "We actively build community, support economic development, and champion downtown revitalization," Jessica said during the presentation.
The foundation listed a slate of events and initiatives from the preceding year: a downtown block party that drew an estimated 3,000 attendees and 80 vendors; a "Sip, Suds & Sai" tasting series; a holiday window festival and pop‑up markets; and public‑art projects including completed and planned murals. The group said it is launching a downtown bucks universal gift certificate program to encourage local spending and is helping merchants improve online visibility through a subsidized Google listing campaign.
The foundation said it continues to rely on volunteers and sponsorships, and it noted gaps in organizational capacity and in diversified funding. The group said it has applied for Main Street designation with the Washington Main Street Program and expects to meet feedback requirements by 2025. Council members praised the foundation’s work and asked for a copy of the presentation and more detail on membership and sponsorship structures.
The foundation’s report highlighted partnerships with local organizations including the Snoqualmie Valley Food Bank, North Bend Masonic Lodge and regional tourism groups. Board members said their efforts are intended to boost downtown commerce and make the center of North Bend a place that attracts visitors and supports small businesses.
Council members thanked the foundation for its outreach and encouraged continued collaboration with city staff on downtown projects and communications.
