Revitalizing the Rock Road
Commercial District
A Stronger Downtown. A Stronger "Around Town." A Stronger Glen Rock.
Attracting new businesses and restaurants to our commercial district is essential to both our local economy and our residents’ community experience. A vibrant downtown enhances quality of life, provides gathering spaces, and helps keep Glen Rock thriving. And, a similar focus "around town" will ensure those sometimes overlooked businesses on Maple, Lincoln, Harristown, Broad and Prospect are thriving as well. We need to make it easier for businesses to choose Glen Rock -- and for residents to enjoy all it has to offer.
Jon, Seth, and Elizabeth are committed to revitalizing the Rock Road commercial district with thoughtful improvements, smart policy, and a clear focus on what makes Glen Rock special.
Supporting Local Business
Small businesses are the heart of any thriving downtown. We want to make Glen Rock a destination for both business owners and the people who support them.
We will:
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Streamline the approval process for new businesses to reduce red tape and delays
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Promote Glen Rock to prospective tenants and entrepreneurs seeking a community-oriented customer base
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Explore tax and fee structures that encourage long-term occupancy and stability
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Support events, promotions, and partnerships that drive foot traffic to our downtown and around town businesses
Attracting Dining, Culture & Retail
Residents want more options -- places to eat, shop, and spend time with family and friends. Rock Road can be more than a pass-through; it can be a gathering place.
We will:
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Actively recruit restaurants, cafés, and service businesses that meet community needs
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Encourage mixed-use spaces that blend retail, culture, and everyday services
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Work with property owners to attract the right tenants and bring vacant storefronts back to life
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Support thoughtful zoning and outdoor dining policies that keep our commercial core lively and accessible
Improving the Downtown Experience
A successful commercial district needs to be inviting -- not just for cars, but for people.
We will:
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Improve sidewalk infrastructure, signage, lighting, and crosswalks to make Rock Road safer and more walkable
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Enhance downtown aesthetics through landscaping, seasonal displays, and clean, well-maintained public areas
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Ensure parking is accessible, clearly marked, and efficiently used—without sacrificing pedestrian flow or safety
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Promote events and programming that bring residents together and activate the streetscape
Supporting our Around Town Businesses As Well
The business community extends beyond just Rock Road and we want to make sure each business district is positioned for success and recognized for their contributions to the community.
We will:
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Ensure all businesses voices are heard and given the same level of attention in decision making
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Work collaboratively to identify which types of businesses might thrive in specific areas
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Collaborate on improvements to struggling areas (e.g., Harristown extension)
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Ensure barriers are removed and town and businesses are swimming in the same direction
Coordinated Planning for Long-Term Vitality
We know revitalizing downtown isn’t just about short-term fixes. It requires vision, collaboration, and sustained effort.
We will:
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Work closely with the Chamber of Commerce, property owners, and local organizations and boards to align goals and priorities
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Seek grants and outside funding to reduce the burden on taxpayers
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Incorporate community feedback into planning and design efforts
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Make Rock Road part of a larger conversation about Glen Rock’s identity, growth, and future
Glen Rock deserves a commercial district that reflects the energy, diversity, and creativity of its people.
Jon, Seth, and Elizabeth are ready to work with businesses, residents, and regional partners to bring new life to Rock Road -- while keeping Glen Rock’s charm, character, and community spirit front and center.