Community Invited to Shape Plan for Downtown
The community is invited to lend their ideas and feedback as we create a strategic vision for Winston-Salem’s future, together. The time has come for public input in the strategic action planning process for the Imagine Winston-Salem plan.
A new survey asks residents, business owners, workers, and visitors to share their thoughts and aspirations for the Downtown core. This is the first of two public surveys that will help shape and inform the final strategic plan. Community input will play a critical role in identifying priorities and opportunities for growth.
“This plan gives us the opportunity to align around a shared vision for economic growth, talent development, and quality of place,” says Mark Owens, President and CEO of Greater Winston-Salem Inc. “The only way to build a strategy that truly reflects Winston-Salem is to ensure everyone is involved in the process and that the outcome carefully reflects what they want to see next.”
“The amenities that make Winston-Salem a premier destination for visitors are the same ones our residents enjoy every day. A vibrant Downtown fuels our hospitality industry, supports local businesses, and enhances the long-term success of our entire community. We want to know what residents and visitors want from their Downtown experiences,” says Stephanie Pace Brown, President and CEO of Visit Winston-Salem.
“The strength of Winston-Salem has always been its people and their willingness to engage in shaping our shared future,” says LaTida Smith, President of the Winston-Salem Foundation. “This survey is an opportunity for every voice to be heard. By working together, we can build a strategy that reflects our community’s values and creates lasting impact for generations to come.”
Imagine Winston-Salem is a planning process sponsored by Greater Winston-Salem Inc. and Visit Winston-Salem, in partnership with the Winston-Salem Foundation. The more than 12-month long process is being facilitated by Kimley-Horn and Clarity of Place.
The plan will produce a unified strategy that supports economic development, enhances Winston-Salem’s destinations, and improves the overall experience for residents and visitors. It will identify key opportunities, outline priority actions, and provide a clear implementation structure for advancing the City’s long-term goals. The process will emphasize connecting community assets, strengthening the Downtown core, and elevating the city’s role as a destination for business, talent, and tourism.