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Marietta businesses hope to fill store fronts with new projects in the city

The article from WTAP, published on June 20, 2025, titled "Marietta businesses hope to fill store fronts with new projects in the city," delves into the revitalization efforts and economic development initiatives in Marietta, Ohio. The piece provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of local businesses, the challenges they face, and the strategies being employed to attract new enterprises and stimulate growth.

Marietta, a historic city located at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers, has long been a hub of commerce and culture in the region. However, like many small towns across America, it has faced economic challenges in recent years, including the closure of several businesses and a decline in foot traffic in its downtown area. In response, local leaders and business owners have come together to devise a plan to breathe new life into the city's commercial landscape.

One of the key initiatives discussed in the article is the "Fill the Fronts" campaign, a collaborative effort between the Marietta-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Marietta Main Street organization, and the city government. The campaign aims to attract new businesses to the vacant storefronts that have become all too common in the downtown area. To achieve this goal, the organizers are offering incentives such as rent subsidies, marketing support, and streamlined permitting processes to entice entrepreneurs to set up shop in Marietta.

The article features interviews with several local business owners who have expressed their support for the "Fill the Fronts" campaign and shared their own experiences of navigating the challenges of running a business in a small town. One such owner is Sarah Johnson, who operates a boutique clothing store on Front Street. Johnson explains that while the past few years have been difficult, she remains optimistic about the future of Marietta and believes that the new initiatives will help to draw more customers to the area.

Another business owner featured in the article is Mike Thompson, who runs a popular restaurant on Second Street. Thompson notes that the closure of nearby businesses has had a ripple effect on his own establishment, as fewer people are coming downtown to shop and dine. However, he is encouraged by the city's efforts to attract new enterprises and believes that a more vibrant commercial scene will benefit all local businesses.

The article also highlights the role of the Marietta-Washington County Port Authority in the city's economic development efforts. The Port Authority has been working to identify and secure funding for projects that will help to revitalize the downtown area and create new job opportunities for residents. One such project is the redevelopment of the former armory building, which is set to be transformed into a mixed-use space featuring retail, office, and residential components.

In addition to the "Fill the Fronts" campaign and the armory redevelopment project, the article discusses other initiatives aimed at boosting Marietta's economy. These include the creation of a new business incubator to support startups and entrepreneurs, the expansion of the city's popular farmers' market, and the launch of a "Shop Local" campaign to encourage residents to support Marietta businesses.

The article also touches on the importance of tourism to Marietta's economy and the efforts being made to attract more visitors to the area. The Marietta-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau has been working to promote the city's rich history, scenic beauty, and unique attractions, such as the annual Ohio River Sternwheel Festival. The bureau has also been collaborating with local businesses to develop new tourism-related products and experiences, such as guided walking tours and themed packages.

Throughout the article, the challenges facing Marietta's businesses are acknowledged, including the impact of online shopping, the difficulty of attracting and retaining young professionals, and the need for more affordable housing options. However, the overall tone of the piece is one of optimism and determination, with local leaders and business owners expressing their commitment to working together to overcome these obstacles and build a stronger, more vibrant community.

The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of community support in the success of Marietta's economic development efforts. The author encourages residents to get involved in the "Fill the Fronts" campaign, to shop at local businesses, and to participate in the various events and initiatives aimed at revitalizing the city. By working together, the article suggests, Marietta can overcome its challenges and create a thriving commercial landscape that benefits all members of the community.

In summary, the WTAP article provides a detailed and nuanced look at the current state of Marietta's business community and the efforts being made to attract new enterprises and stimulate economic growth. Through interviews with local business owners, discussions of key initiatives such as the "Fill the Fronts" campaign and the armory redevelopment project, and an examination of the challenges and opportunities facing the city, the article paints a comprehensive picture of Marietta's economic landscape and the path forward. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and community support, Marietta's leaders and residents are working together to build a brighter future for their city.

Read the Full TheNewsCenter Article at:
[ https://www.wtap.com/2025/06/20/marietta-businesses-hope-fill-store-fronts-with-new-projects-city/ ]