This week marks the halfway point of the City of Waltham’s 100 Day Challenge campaign. This initiative is a result of collaboration between the City of Waltham Mayor’s Office, City Departments, Downtown Waltham Partnership, local business leaders, Waltham Chamber of Commerce, and other civic organizations. It calls upon local residents to support the city’s small businesses and restaurants in the final 100 days leading up to 2021. Residents are encouraged to shop local, buy local, and dine local during a time in which thousands of businesses have been suffering nationwide.
Inspiration for the 100 Day Challenge stemmed from the success of outdoor dining on Moody Street earlier this year and the year prior. The closing of Moody Street last fall served as a trial run to test if businesses could draw in more foot traffic. Because this event was successful, the city granted restaurants the opportunity to serve patrons on the sidewalks and street last spring. Ward 8 Councilor and supporter of the 100 Day Challenge Cathyann Harris remarked, “They [Moody Street restaurants] used their creative energy and really tried to make it an attraction and all that energy came from them and that’s what drew everybody into the downtown.” Harris hopes that this type of energy picks up during the 100 Day Challenge and into the year of 2021.
The 100 Day Challenge has helped the city plan upcoming changes to the city’s infrastructure. Residents have provided feedback that the number of handicap-accessible parking spots should be increased. “It’s transformational when we can all work together towards a common goal,” stated Harris.
Be sure to check out the official City of Waltham social media pages and website to view a directory of over 125 small businesses in the area. Waltham’s COVID community level was upgraded to red, or high risk, on October 13. If you do choose to support local businesses, you are encouraged to do so while following all COVID guidelines and requirements.
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