Traveling Through Nebraska's Hidden Gem: Blair Historic Downtown Association
The Blair Historic Downtown Association (BHDA) is a community-driven organization operating in Blair, Nebraska, which is located in the northeastern part of the state near the Missouri River. Blair's downtown district comprises scenic Main Street, located near the Junction of U.S. Highway 75 and the 30th Street, surrounding neighborhoods, and spans roughly 20 square blocks. Since its establishment, the BHDA has been working tirelessly to promote the local businesses, preserve and revitalize historic buildings and preserve the area's cultural heritage.
At the heart of the BHDA's mission lies a deep dedication to community revitalization through Historic Preservation, Historic District and Downtown Tax Increment Finance (TIF) efforts. BHDA board members and community stakeholders collaborate to guide the vision and growth strategy for revitalizing the area. By bringing together economic development, public policy makers, local government officials, downtown stakeholders, historians, and preservationists, the collective group acts as catalyst for shaping downtown development.
Additionally, the Blair Main Street Revitalization Plan developed by the BHDA - which was approved in July 2013 - sets high ambitions for overall revitalization, addressing some aspects like storefront renovations, new streetscape architecture and general restructuring to prepare Blair downtown to grow commercially in the future. Community-wide input played a crucial role in envisioning what every resident hopes their city would become.
BHDA utilizes promotional campaigns, seasonal decorations and downtown revitalization grants to engage and educate the public about local landmarks. Moreover, organizing various themed events such as festivals, downtown art exhibitions and farmers markets creates new financial opportunities for entrepreneurs and smallscale businesses, all while building awareness about conservation efforts.
Renovations achieved through revitalization include rebricking of sidewalks and resurfacing the streets along the historic downtown area. BHDA also distributes brochures and local attractions maps at historical sites to inform tourists about unique locations found in downtown Blair. By integrating these strategies, BHDA has significantly transformed Blair's historic downtown area into a more distinctive and lively district that celebrates the region's history.
Inaugurated July 2018 as part of the revitalization efforts, the historic Downtown Blair Billboard showcases banners recognizing Blair residents. They celebrate regional first responders, student achievements and entrepreneurship displays a sense of unity, appreciation and spirit that propels the community forward.
Further collaborations between BHDA leadership and citizens are foreseen as part of long-term infrastructure vision plans now centered in response to regional aspirations. Currently however, a major commitment and progress is still seen on the one-block promenade renovation located between the Blair Post Office Building, Mary Elizabeth Richert Historic District housing, and the Washington County Courthouse - where renovation works completed thus far demonstrate ambitions expressed through revitalization that BHDA follows and adheres to passionately, exhibiting steady and enduring spirit long shaping Blair town visions and attractions distinctively.
Local and volunteer collaboration, including that with the General Federation of Women's Clubs of Nebraska - Blair, provide more inspiration towards promoting local downtown experiences and area museums through the Blair Downtown Walking Tour. By embracing old heritage and history, the community forges unique Downtown Blair experiences.
At the heart of the BHDA's mission lies a deep dedication to community revitalization through Historic Preservation, Historic District and Downtown Tax Increment Finance (TIF) efforts. BHDA board members and community stakeholders collaborate to guide the vision and growth strategy for revitalizing the area. By bringing together economic development, public policy makers, local government officials, downtown stakeholders, historians, and preservationists, the collective group acts as catalyst for shaping downtown development.
Additionally, the Blair Main Street Revitalization Plan developed by the BHDA - which was approved in July 2013 - sets high ambitions for overall revitalization, addressing some aspects like storefront renovations, new streetscape architecture and general restructuring to prepare Blair downtown to grow commercially in the future. Community-wide input played a crucial role in envisioning what every resident hopes their city would become.
BHDA utilizes promotional campaigns, seasonal decorations and downtown revitalization grants to engage and educate the public about local landmarks. Moreover, organizing various themed events such as festivals, downtown art exhibitions and farmers markets creates new financial opportunities for entrepreneurs and smallscale businesses, all while building awareness about conservation efforts.
Renovations achieved through revitalization include rebricking of sidewalks and resurfacing the streets along the historic downtown area. BHDA also distributes brochures and local attractions maps at historical sites to inform tourists about unique locations found in downtown Blair. By integrating these strategies, BHDA has significantly transformed Blair's historic downtown area into a more distinctive and lively district that celebrates the region's history.
Inaugurated July 2018 as part of the revitalization efforts, the historic Downtown Blair Billboard showcases banners recognizing Blair residents. They celebrate regional first responders, student achievements and entrepreneurship displays a sense of unity, appreciation and spirit that propels the community forward.
Further collaborations between BHDA leadership and citizens are foreseen as part of long-term infrastructure vision plans now centered in response to regional aspirations. Currently however, a major commitment and progress is still seen on the one-block promenade renovation located between the Blair Post Office Building, Mary Elizabeth Richert Historic District housing, and the Washington County Courthouse - where renovation works completed thus far demonstrate ambitions expressed through revitalization that BHDA follows and adheres to passionately, exhibiting steady and enduring spirit long shaping Blair town visions and attractions distinctively.
Local and volunteer collaboration, including that with the General Federation of Women's Clubs of Nebraska - Blair, provide more inspiration towards promoting local downtown experiences and area museums through the Blair Downtown Walking Tour. By embracing old heritage and history, the community forges unique Downtown Blair experiences.
