Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
March 7, 2021
Fernandina Beach Main Street (FBMS) continues making forward progress despite challenges presented by the Covid pandemic. Executive Director Lisa Finkelstein provided the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) with an update on activities and future goals at the March 2, 2021 FBCC Regular Meeting.
Outreach efforts have included providing updates and resources to local businesses to help them deal with challenges presented by the pandemic. FBMS recently hosted a program to help businesses use social media more effectively to market their goods and services online.
The FBMS Promotions Council recently hosted a “Sip & Shop” that featured 23 businesses and attracted 110 shoppers. 73 percent of participating businesses reported higher sales resulting from this event.
The FBMS Design Council continues to work with City staff on improving the appearance of the downtown business area, inventorying trees and adding bike racks.
Objectives for the next quarter include reaching out to businesses in the expanded Main Street area along 8th Street, completing the installation of regulatory signage, and updating pedestrian wayfinding.