Since June, 2008, the Charlestown Business Climate Committee has continued working to create more vibrant retail shopping districts in Charlestown:

1. Along with the Charlestown Preservation Society, the Charlestown Historical Society, the National Park Service, and other groups, members have drafted a historic walking map and retail guide for Charlestown. The new map will feature retail businesses, combined with walks through the historic areas of town, not only those featured on the Freedom Trail, but also some of Charlestown’s hidden gems. This effort is designed to put Charlestown on the map, since the complete neighborhood is rarely identified in most Boston maps and is intended to entice Freedom Trail users and other visitors to extend their stay and encourage more patronage of our retail business districts. A first version will be published in time for the Charlestown Preservation Society House Tour on September 27. A second version will be published subsequent to receipt of comments and corrections on Version I.

2. Members are also working on an inventory of all retail businesses and open space in Charlestown’s business districts and a “How to Start a Retail Business in Charlestown” checklist, based on the experience of several new businesses and at least one prospective business.

3. The Committee is investigating getting involved in the City of Boston’s Community Change program. As the year progresses, CBA members can expect to hear more about this program!

4. And the Committee continues to work with not-for-profits in town, including the Charlestown Business Association, the Charlestown Mother’s Association, the Charlestown Waterfront Coalition, the Charlestown Substance Abuse Coalition, and the Friends of the Charlestown Navy Yard, to ensure we address the community’s needs for more retail businesses and to ensure we are all working together and developing synergies. We see our efforts as a collaboration of groups and individuals who are eager to make Charlestown a more vibrant community with first class retail districts.

The 2008 Historic House Tour will showcase homes representing the full range of 18th and 19th century styles Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate and High Victorian for which Charlestown is famous. This event is organized by the Charlestown Preservation Society a CBA Member.

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