ROCK SPRINGS — The Economic Restructuring committee of the Rock Springs Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency (URA) recently announced a new program to help promote Downtown Rock Springs – The Downtown First Awards.
The Downtown First Awards recognize businesses, organizations and individuals who put downtown first through their commitments of time, advocacy and resources. The community is invited to nominate businesses, organizations, and individuals deserving of recognition. An independent selection committee reviews nominations and selects winners in each award category. Winners will be announced and the awards will be presented at our annual volunteer recognition event in April.
Nominated businesses, merchants or organizations must be located in the Downtown Rock Springs focus area and nominated individuals must live, work or volunteer in the focus area. Categories include:
- Outstanding Large Business
(with 10+ employees)
This award is presented to a business located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that has 10 or more employees.
- Outstanding Small Business
(with fewer than 10 employees)
This award is presented to a business located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that has fewer than 10 employees.
- Outstanding New Business/Merchant
(opened in 2014)
This award is presented to a business or merchant located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that has opened or relocated to the district in 2014.
- Outstanding Nonprofit Organization
This award is presented to a 501(c)(3) organization within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area.
- Better Rock Springs Beautification Award
This award is presented to a business or property owner within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that has made improvements to his/her property or who has otherwise contributed to the beautification of Downtown Rock Springs
- Outstanding Individual
(within a Company or Organization)
This award is presented to an individual who, as a representative of his/her company or organization, serves to enhance the downtown experience.
- Outstanding Volunteer
This award is presented to an individual or group whose volunteerism within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area enhances the downtown experience
Nomination forms, along with a map of the Downtown focus area, can be found on the Downtown Rock Springs website at DowntownRS.com (under the “Get Involved” heading) or in person at the Rock Springs Main Street/URA office, 501 S Main Street. The Rock Springs Main Street/URA can be reached at 307-352-1434. Nomination forms are due by March 15, 2015.
The Rock Springs Main Street/URA is charged with the redevelopment of Downtown Rock Springs. As part of their mission, there are four standing committees – Economic Restructuring, Organization, Promotions and Design.