SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve the Downtown Development Board (DDB) 1st Friday Lunchtime Market, a recurring community activation event scheduled for the first Friday of each month, from October 2025 through February 2026, for a total not to exceed $15,000, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
Downtown Clearwater continues to work toward its revitalization and economic development goals as outlined in the Cleveland Street Activation Plan, the Downtown Development Board’s priorities, and the City of Clearwater’s Strategic Plan. Despite notable public and private investments, weekday foot traffic-particularly during daytime hours-remains low, limiting the success of local businesses and the vibrancy of public spaces. This program is designed to address that gap by providing regular, accessible, and engaging programming that activates downtown streets, supports small businesses, and draws workers, residents, and visitors to the area. With major construction projects on the horizon, it’s especially important to maintain and grow momentum downtown. The Lunchtime Market offers a flexible format that can easily shift locations in response to construction impacts-examples include the 500 or 600 block of Cleveland Street or Station Square Park-ensuring consistency and continued visibility for local vendors and community engagement throughout the construction period. CRA staff anticipate spending a minimum of $15,000 on the program including city fees, rentals, and marketing. If program plans need to be adjusted, the program budget of $15,000 includes contingency spending of $4,500.
The timing of the lunchtime market series is critically important to the success of existing businesses with major construction activity impacting the immediate area around these businesses. Private investments such as Hotel Tapestry and Bluff Development, and public investments such as the Osceola Parking Garage, Osceola Street Improvements and the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority combined will create an environment of excitement with the opportunity for disappointments without mitigation strategies such the lunchtime market series.
CRA staff conducted an informal survey of the businesses on Cleveland Street to get feedback on lunchtime market idea, below is a recap of the responses;
"Clear Sky - Scott Sousa”
Yes, we are in support of the lunchtime market to help drive traffic. I will try my best to be at the 7/7 meeting. Thank you for all your support."
"Chiang Mai Soney and Nola”
This is a fantastic idea. Chiang Mai would be taking part in making these lunchtimes an "event!" We've already mapped out our plans!"
"Downtown Pizza - Dan Mahoney”
Foot traffic and a REASON to come to Cleveland Street (a draw) are, in my view, the keys to helping spur business. I will be there."
"Nash Keys”
Thank you for reaching out and including us.
We love the idea of a market on the 500 Block. We would really love to see it as a farmers market on Sunday lunches to drive more people to our block for our brunches on sunday which are already starting to catch on! If we want to drive more action on the weekdays for Downtown, maybe having it during the week (Tues, Wed or Thurs) in the evening is a better option as three out of five businesses are closed during lunch and only open in the evening. For vendors we would love to see it more as a farmers market, fresh produce, flowers, honey, local craft vendors primarily. I like the idea of no vendor fee but a raffle donation, will make it easier on vendors! Thank you for hearing us out, we look forward to bringing back Downtown."
"Olive and Thyme”
This sounds like it has a great opportunity to grow and bring in new people or help the current people of the downtown area "use it" more. Here are a few of my thoughts- hope this helps!
1. Theme Suggestions
I think that it would be great to follow the months with the holidays/seasons, since it will be aligned so well
Sept- End of Summer/Last Days of Summer or a play around that with the weather being rather warm
Oct- Fall themed/Halloween- there is so much to do with that a kick off to fall
November- Possibly a kick-off to the holiday season/ gift giving
Dec- Christmas/Winter Wonderland
Jan- Fresh start- yoga- wellness"
Program Outline:
The DDB 1st Friday Lunchtime Market (program) is a recurring community activation event designed to enliven Downtown Clearwater’s 400 block (with future expansion to the 500 block) on the first Friday of each month from 9 AM-2 PM, October 2025 through February 2026. The market will spotlight local merchants offering lunchtime specials and host 10-12 rotating retail vendors. This initiative aims to boost foot traffic, support small businesses, and enhance the downtown experience during workday hours.
Staff is requesting funding in an amount not to exceed $15,000 for:
• Special event fees per event: $100 (no dumpster fee; vendors would be responsible for their own trash removal)
• PD/mitigation fees: $1,300 - 4 cars per event (5 hours)
• Restrooms: $200 per event
• Marketing materials: $2,500 for the entire program
• Contingency budget allocated specifically for adjustments, including any necessary mitigation if the location changes or expansion of the program: $4,500
Total Funding Request: $15,000
The goals and objectives of the program are the following:
Increase Weekday Foot Traffic Downtown
• Key Performance Indicators:
• Track average foot traffic counts on market days using pedestrian counters or manual counts.
• Target: 15-20% increase in pedestrian activity compared to non-market Fridays.
Support Local Economic Activity
• Key Performance Indicators:
• At least 3 downtown businesses participate in lunchtime promotions per event.
• Minimum of 10 vendors per event; aim for 50% repeat participation across the series.
• Collect merchant-reported sales or foot traffic data post-event (voluntary).
Expand Community Engagement
• Key Performance Indicators:
• Reach 500+ impressions per event through digital marketing (email, social media, etc.).
• Grow event page attendance/interest by 5% month over month.
The request aligns with both the DDB’s mission and the City’s Strategic Plan. Staff recommends approval in an amount not to exceed $15,000 for city fees and eligible direct costs.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funding for this grant will be available in FY 25/26, Cleveland Street Activation line of the budget - 1829411-558700.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
2.1 Strengthen public-private initiatives that attract, develop, and retain diversified business sectors.
2.2 Cultivate a business climate that welcomes entrepreneurship, inspires local investment, supports Eco-friendly enterprises, and encourages high-quality job growth.
2.3 Promote Clearwater as a premier destination for entertainment, cultural experiences, tourism, and national sporting events.