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In the late 1990s, Marion, Ohio, faced physical and economic decline, raising concerns among residents and community leaders about the future of its downtown area. Recognizing the importance of a vibrant downtown for the community’s overall well-being, local leaders and residents began meeting to address these challenges and develop long-term solutions. This collaborative effort led to the formation of a task force called Marion County EnVISIONing the 21st Century. The task force was tasked with creating a comprehensive strategy to revitalize downtown Marion, reclaiming it as a key area for the city and county.
The Formation of the Downtown Marion Advisory Board
The EnVISIONing task force concluded that Marion needed a permanent organization dedicated to downtown revitalization. In response, the Downtown Marion Advisory Board was established in 2000 as a division of the Marion CANDO organization. The board’s mission was to address the issues identified by the task force, working to bring together local citizens, downtown businesses, property owners, representatives from local organizations, churches, and city and county government agencies. The Advisory Board aimed to make downtown Marion a place where businesses could thrive, residents could gather, and the area’s historical significance could be preserved.
Becoming Downtown Marion Inc.
Over time, it became clear that the Advisory Board needed greater independence to fully realize its mission. In 2008, the organization officially incorporated as Downtown Marion Inc. (DMI), establishing itself as an independent entity focused exclusively on downtown revitalization. Early in 2009, DMI achieved nonprofit tax-exempt status, enabling it to expand its initiatives and increase its impact on the community.
DMI’s Vision and Guiding Principles
From its inception, DMI has followed the Main Street Four-Point Philosophy—Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Restructuring. This guiding framework has provided a solid foundation for DMI’s mission to support economic growth and community revitalization in downtown Marion.
DMI’s vision is to make downtown Marion a central hub for both residents and visitors. The organization focuses on leveraging downtown’s existing assets, enhancing its appeal through design and promotion, and building a welcoming environment that reflects the pride and identity of the Marion community. Partnerships with local businesses, government, and organizations have been essential in making this vision a reality.
Impact on the Community
Over the years, DMI’s efforts have encouraged the community to rediscover and invest in downtown Marion, transforming it into a destination for entertainment, educational activities, and social events. As awareness of downtown Marion has grown, so too has participation in its events and activities. Goals set by community leaders in the 1980s and 1990s are now coming to life, as downtown Marion increasingly fulfills its role as the "heart of the city and county."
Today, downtown Marion stands as a testament to what a community can achieve when people come together with a shared purpose. Thanks to DMI’s work, Marion’s downtown is once again a vibrant, thriving area that serves as a focal point for the city’s culture, economy, and community spirit.
Why Invest in Downtown Marion Inc.?
As DMI continues to grow, the benefits of investing in downtown Marion have become increasingly clear. A strong and vibrant downtown supports the entire community, making Marion a more attractive place to live, work, and visit. Here are some of the reasons why investing in Downtown Marion Inc. has a lasting positive impact:
Strong Staying Power: Downtown merchants have enjoyed impressive staying power over the past five years, demonstrating the area’s economic stability.
Increasing Property Values: Over 40 buildings have changed ownership in the last five years, and downtown real estate values have tripled over the past decade.
Growing Appeal to Visitors: Downtown merchants report a significant increase in out-of-town customers, establishing Marion as a regional destination.
Business and Job Growth: Since 2018, downtown Marion has welcomed 42 new businesses—including retail stores, restaurants, educational institutions, and professional service providers. These businesses have created over 350 new full- and part-time jobs, generating over $11 million in wages and salaries.
Cultural Hub: Downtown Marion has become the cultural center of the community, with a wide range of events and activities that attract thousands of visitors each year.
Event Highlights
Third Thursdays: Attracting 2,000–3,000 attendees of all ages each month.
Farmer’s Markets: Offering fresh produce and local goods on a weekly basis.
Monster March Trick or Treat: Drawing over 2,000 children each year.
Loft Tours and Annual 5K Races: Providing unique experiences that showcase downtown Marion.
Christmas Celebrations:
Nighttime Christmas Parade: Drawing crowds of 3,000 attendees.
Annual Tree Lighting: Attended by 500 community members.
Holiday Church Tours: Popular among the community, with large crowds at each participating church.
Santa’s House at Founders Park: Welcoming 400 children annually, each receiving a present.
Secret Shopper Saturdays: Offering two Saturdays of holiday shopping experiences for children.
Taste of Marion: This successful event promotes downtown restaurants, showcasing local cuisine and attracting food lovers from around the area.
Historic Preservation: As of 2022, 108 downtown buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which safeguards Marion’s history and architectural heritage.
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