Downtown Association establishes a community engagement platform
New system to help the community voice suggestions and ideas
KOKOMO, Ind. (Mar. 3, 2025) – The Greater Kokomo Downtown Association is making it easier than ever for businesses and residents to play an active role in shaping the future of downtown Kokomo. Through a new community engagement platform, residents can share ideas, recognize positive contributions, and help keep downtown vibrant and welcoming.
Community members can now submit ideas, report concerns, or celebrate successes through an easy-to-use online form accessible via QR codes on contact cards distributed at downtown businesses by the Greater Kokomo Downtown Association. The form is also available at GreaterKokomo.com.
Through this form, anyone can submit an idea, ask a question, request a connection, offer a compliment, or highlight an issue within downtown. For example, residents can highlight a well-maintained storefront that enhances downtown’s appeal, suggest locations for new public art, or report maintenance issues such as broken streetlights.
The Downtown Association and its experienced Downtown Council will establish connections that address the matters presented and engage the respondent and/or the community in possible solutions.
“This initiative reinforces that the Downtown Association is the go-to source for all things downtown,” said Susan Alexander, downtown initiatives manager for the Greater Kokomo Alliance. “We want to serve as a clearinghouse for information, a hub where businesses and residents can come with questions, ideas or even small issues — like weeds that need to be pulled — so that we can all work together to keep downtown thriving.”
A thriving downtown is an essential driver of economic growth. It attracts businesses, visitors, and investment while fostering community pride. Investors and developers often assess a community based on the condition of its downtown, making its vibrancy crucial to long-term success.
“Because downtown is the most widely held representation of our entire community, a vibrant and well-maintained city center is crucial to a community’s economic success,” Alexander said.
Downtown revitalization isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s a key component of an economic development strategy. Placemaking efforts, from small beautification projects to large-scale arts initiatives, help create a sense of community, attract visitors and encourage business investment.
“The Greater Kokomo Alliance exists in large part to support a strong, growing and connected community,” said Lori Dukes, president and CEO of the Alliance. “Through the Downtown Association, Chamber of Commerce, Inventrek Tech Park and Visitors Bureau, we work every day to help businesses and individuals succeed. Whether you need a connection, have a challenge to solve, or just want to celebrate something great happening in Kokomo, we’re here as a resource to make good things happen for Kokomo and Howard County.”
The cards are now available at downtown businesses. Organizations and businesses are invited to request a stack of cards. The Downtown Association invites all residents and businesses to get involved today by picking up a contact card, scanning the QR code, and helping shape the future of downtown Kokomo.
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About the Greater Kokomo Downtown Association
The Greater Kokomo Downtown Association is a network of individuals, volunteers, and businesses committed to preserving, promoting, and enhancing the vitality of downtown Kokomo through economic development, design initiatives, and community engagement. The Association’s goal is to create a downtown ecosystem where businesses thrive, residents flourish, and visitors explore in a harmonious community atmosphere.