Norfolk’s Vibrant Spaces program helps bring businesses downtown

Published May 11, 2016 by Paula C. Squires

Lamia’s Crepes opened for business at 401 Granby Street in downtown Norfolk this month, the second business to take advantage of a grant through Vibrant Spaces.  The Parisian-style creperie offers freshly made crepes and is the first of its kind in Hampton Roads, according to the Downtown Norfolk Council.

Vibrant Spaces is a council initiative that offers available downtown spaces to businesses.

So far, three applicants have been awarded $20,000, plus half-off market rent for two years with a signed lease. Muddy Paws Downtown opened in early May at 400 Granby Street, and Prince Ink will follow Lamia’s at 433 Granby Street within the month.

Vibrant Spaces will continue to award $50,000 in matching grants to new and existing businesses that create street-level vibrancy.

The committee overseeing the program said it would work with small businesses to identify spaces and encourage landlords to offer incentives to get businesses established downtown.

Downtown Norfolk Council is a private, not-for-profit membership organization comprised of businesses and individuals. The council also manages the Downtown Norfolk Improvement District, a 48-block special services district with enhanced services designed to keep downtown friendly, safe and clean,