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Ottawa Main Street credits downtown events and historic tax credits for rising activity
Summary
Ottawa Main Street told Prince County commissioners that its 'Third Thursdays' events boosted vendor participation and foot traffic downtown, that the group has placed a half-page in the state tourism guide, and that four historic tax-credit approvals now total more than $1 million in downtown project investment.
Ottawa Main Street reported to Prince County commissioners that its seasonal 'Third Thursdays' events and partnerships are increasing downtown activity and enabling building rehabilitation projects funded in part by historic tax credits.
Sarah, representing Ottawa Main Street, said the events — held April through October — produced steady growth in vendors and shopper foot traffic and that organizers have begun adding themed months and coordinated walking tours with the historical society. She noted two vendor months during which sponsors covered meals for attendees and said "we fed over 400 people" in each of those months.
The presentation highlighted efforts to market the county in the state's tourism guide (a half-page placement on page 26 this year) and to work regionally to attract day trippers. Sarah said the group is planning to add music and other attractions in 2026 and to update the downtown business listings and the tourism website to better capture visitors.
On economic incentives, Sarah reported recent progress using historic tax credits and loans to help building owners complete projects. "We just had our fourth approval and just hit over $1,000,000 in approvals through tax credits," she said, describing tax credits stacked with grants and a county 0% loan fund that county staff has been distributing for remodels. She said the program has reduced barriers for projects such as roof replacements that can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Commissioners asked about restaurant impacts when meals are provided and about continued promotion; Main Street said they limit food vendors to avoid direct competition with local restaurants and are working to expand listings and programming next year.
The update included plans to continue coordinating regionally — including with nearby communities — and to pursue additional grant and marketing opportunities as they prepare the calendar for 2026.
