Cabarrus Today

The City of Concord and the Concord Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC) have established a new quasi-public partnership aimed at boosting downtown revitalization efforts and providing support to small business owners. This agreement, effective since January 25, 2021, integrates the CDDC into the City of Concord Planning and Neighborhood Development Department.

Steve Osborne, Planning and Neighborhood Development Director, commented on the merger: “The merger between the City of Concord and the CDDC comes at a great time for Downtown with the current private and public investment that is underway or starting soon. Being able to work as one team will only enhance project coordination and build on this momentum, creating new opportunities and growth for business owners and the community.”

The collaboration was mutually agreed upon by both the City Council and CDDC's Board of Directors. Employees from CDDC have transitioned into equivalent roles within the city administration. Meanwhile, the Board will continue its role in overseeing fundraising activities and event sponsorships.

Johnson Bray, Downtown Development Manager, explained: “Only a handful of downtowns in the state operate as separate non-profits; most Main Street communities have moved towards becoming a City Department or the quasi-public model that we have recently adopted. This model allows us to utilize the tools associated with public and private management of the Main Street Program to have the most positive impact for Downtown.”

For over three decades, CDDC has managed Downtown Concord's Municipal Service District (MSD), adhering to guidelines from both national and state Main Street programs. Since 1990, these efforts have attracted more than $220 million in investments while creating nearly 1,000 full-time jobs.

Funding for benefits provided through this program comes partly from a nominal tax levied on businesses within MSD by the city. Previously directed to CDDC, these funds will now be channeled through city coffers but remain dedicated to district use as per North Carolina state mandates. Under this partnership structure, while retaining its non-profit status, CDDC will continue organizing events, seeking grants, and promoting local businesses.