The non-profit Grants Pass Towne Center Association (GPTCA) works to improve and develop the Grants Pass, Oregon, area’s downtown. Since its founding in 1985, the association has played a significant role in transforming Grants Pass into a thriving center of trade and culture in Southern Oregon.
By offering grants and funding to assist small businesses in expanding and improving, the association has significantly contributed to the revitalization of the downtown area. The Grants Pass Towne Center Association is also in charge of a number of annual community programs and events that draw tourists to the region.
The First Friday Art Walk is one of GPTCA’s most well-liked events. Every month, on the first Friday, the event brings together downtown establishments and regional artists. Businesses stay open late and put on displays of local artists’ work during the Art Walk, resulting in a lively and busy atmosphere in the center of Grants Pass.
The Christmas Parade is one more noteworthy occasion that GPTCA puts on. The parade, which takes place every year on the first Saturday in December, brings a large crowd to Grants Pass’ downtown. Santa Claus himself, as well as holiday-themed floats, marching bands, and other attractions, delight both kids and adults.
Small businesses in the downtown area can also receive grants from GPTCA to aid in their expansion and improvement. The association has in the past offered grants to businesses so they could upgrade their storefronts, add outdoor seating areas, and put up new signage. These enhancements not only benefit specific businesses but also add to the downtown area’s overall appeal and vibrancy.
The association has also been crucial in advancing local tourism. The lovely Rogue Valley area of Southern Oregon, where Grants Pass is situated, is well-known for its breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. In an effort to draw tourists to the area and strengthen the local economy, the association has worked to promote attractions and events there.
Utilizing its website and social media platforms is one way the GPTCA advertises travel. A business directory, an events schedule, and a list of nearby attractions are all available on the association’s website. In addition, the association keeps up with local news, upcoming events, and company promotions on social media.
Additionally, GPTCA has taken part in a number of downtown community development initiatives. One noteworthy undertaking was the restoration of the historic Rogue Theater, which had lain empty for a while. The association raised money for the renovation, which included the installation of new sound and lighting systems and the restoration of the theater’s famous marquee, by working with neighborhood businesses and community members.
A cultural center for the downtown area, the renovated theater now hosts performances, plays, and movie showings all year long. The project’s success is evidence of the value of intercommunity cooperation and the commitment of the Grants Pass Towne Center Association to the revitalization of the downtown area.
Overall, Grants Pass Towne Center Association is essential to the growth and improvement of Grants Pass’s downtown. Due to the association’s efforts, Southern Oregon now has a thriving center of commerce and culture. The GPTCA is a key player in the ongoing revitalization of the downtown area, helping small businesses, promoting tourism, and fostering community growth.
