As 2020 folds into memory and 2021 emerges, there is so much to reflect on. 

We made it through an extremely difficult year, and there is hope, with the COVID vaccine as a way forward to normalcy. How we respond to setbacks guides our success and it’s been inspiring to see the tenacity and creativity that our business community has shown while facing the challenges of 2020. This strength and ability to look at new ways to do business is being carried forward into 2021. The pandemic is still with us so we will continue to mask up, keep social distancing protocols in place, and wash hands. We ask you to support our local economy in the ways that you can — by getting take-out and dining outside, by shopping in town or ordering merchandise curbside, or shopping locally online. At Main Street, we are grateful for all the partners who have worked together to support our community over this past year. Our members, our sponsors, volunteers, and our partners have all pulled together to help weather this storm. It has been a struggle for everyone, but there are positives that can arise from challenging times. 

I have been asking people two questions: What are you looking forward to in 2021? 

And, what is one positive takeaway that you have from 2020 that you will bring into the new year? 

Here’s a roundup from locals, business owners and employees. 

COUNTY EMPLOYEES AND COMMUNITY LEADERS

I’m looking forward to getting past COVID in 2021.

This past year has given us a new skillset with remote meetings. Our palette of tools has grown and video meetings cut down on travel time—there will be a place for it in 2021.

DOWNTOWN EMPLOYEES

I’m looking forward to reconnecting with community and family in person this year. 

In 2020, I learned how to garden in the Pacific Northwest and that will stay with me and bring joy for many summers to come. 

CITY EMPLOYEES

I’m new to town and I’m anxious to meet people in person in 2021.

During 2020, I was impressed working with local business owners and partners by their drive to survive during COVID, the adaptability of people, and found all they did to make it work inspiring. 

UPTOWN BUSINESS OWNERS

We missed traveling and our family hopes to be able to do that again in 2021.

On the flip side of that, in 2020, we really enjoyed spending more time locally, investing in local community, and exploring all the resources available here.

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS OWNERS

I’m looking forward to a rest in the new year after the busy holiday retail season and then regrouping and getting ready for life again. 

BUSINESS OWNERS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS

2020 made people coordinate more, creating a spirit of working together to get through it. 

So often we operate just in our own sphere, and we can take this cooperative spirit into 2021. 

LOCAL RESIDENTS

In 2020 I was able to work remotely. I want to keep that as a goal and the job I have allows that.

In 2021, the thing I am looking forward to most is being with friends again. 

DOWNTOWN EMPLOYEES

I want to get out and explore more, do more hiking, paddleboarding, and find more ways to be healthier in 2021. 

In 2020, we used online grocery shopping and outdoor pickup and we plan to continue with that.

LOCAL RESIDENTS

This year, I’m looking forward to seeing my friends, sitting inside at a restaurant, and not eating in my car!

I really appreciate that we live in a town that respected the necessary CDC guidelines. I feel comfortable here, and I shopped for everything locally for Christmas and plan to keep that going in the new year. There’s a positive energy in town.

HISTORIC DISTRICTS MARKETING CAMPAIGN

Our nonprofit was successful in receiving a major economic development grant from the First Federal Community Foundation to support the historic districts. These funds are being matched by sponsors, partners and in-kind media support with a total value of more than $80,000. The campaign begins with local marketing and expands out as COVID restrictions lift. Marketing buys, campaign website, self-guided/guided tours and experiences are in the works. Special thanks to First Federal Community Foundation, the Port of Port Townsend, KPTZ 91.9 FM, the Port Townsend Leader, and Windermere Real Estate for supporting this campaign. See more at ptmainstreet.org—search “Love Where You Live.” 

CREATIVE DISTRICT WAYFINDING ART MARKERS PROJECT 

The deadline is Jan. 15. This project is funded in part by ArtWA, matching fund donors and in-kind support from the city of Port Townsend. See more at ptmainstreet.org on the Creative District page.

Subscribe to our enews at ptmainstreet.org or follow our program on social media. 

Here’s to a brighter new year!

(Mari F. Mullen is the executive director of the Port Townsend Main Street Program, a nonprofit organization. Main Street works with businesses and our community to achieve its mission: to preserve, promote and enhance the historic business districts — Uptown and Downtown. The Port Townsend Main Street Program is an accredited Main Street Program, and is one of 34 Main Street Programs across Washington state.)