Welcome to our blog, your go-to source for all things Downtown York. From the latest happenings and upcoming events to exciting news and developments, we keep you informed and connected.
The Downtown Inc and York County Economic Alliance teams just wrapped up an energizing week in Philadelphia for the 2025 Main Street Now Conference — and we’re returning to York inspired and full of ideas for the future of our historically edgy downtown.
A total of $18,000 in grant funds will be allocated in 2025, with $3,000 earmarked for events in Foundry Plaza, for events taking place from May 1, 2025-May 1,2026 in the City of York.
February is the month of love, and whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or just looking for fun ways to celebrate love, Downtown York has something special for every couple, single, and best gals.
Looking to make the most of the holiday season in Downtown York? Use this holiday calendar of events blog post to be your guide to all the festive fun! From shopping local and exploring seasonal markets to dining in cozy spots and experiencing nostalgic traditions, Downtown York has everything you need to create special memories with loved ones. Let the holiday magic begin!
Downtown Inc, the organization committed to driving, enhancing, and encouraging investment in Downtown York is proud to announce two new faces joining the York Business Improvement District Authority Board of Directors.
Downtown Inc is excited to announce the launch of its newly revamped Downtown Ambassador Program, designed for community members passionate about enhancing and promoting the vibrant culture of Downtown York.
Downtown Inc is excited to welcome York College of Pennsylvania students, families, staff, and alumni to experience all that Downtown York has to offer during October’s First Friday on October 4, 2024! This festive weekend coincides with York College’s Homecoming Fall Festival, making it the perfect time to explore the heart of York with special deals and discounts from local merchants.
Major New Holiday Event Launches at WellSpan Park
Downtown Inc is pleased to announce the winners of the 24th Annual Downtown First Awards, held at Keystone Kidspace on the evening of Thursday, August 8, 2024.
Downtown Inc is thrilled to celebrate and show our appreciation for the incredible successes of the ABM Clean & Green Team in their first 9 months serving Downtown York. ABM Janitorial was chosen for this important role because of their proven track record in downtowns nationwide and their unwavering commitment to serving the communities in which they work. The ABM Clean & Green Team hit the streets in October 2023, and their impact has been nothing short of remarkable!
OUR MISSION: To drive, enhance, and encourage investment in Downtown York. Our historic downtown has been a thriving hub of commerce and trade since its founding in 1741.
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Director, Downtown Inc
Sarah O’Brien joined the York County Economic Alliance as Director of Downtown Inc in April 2024.
Sarah boasts over 20 years of experience in downtown revitalization and Main Street organizational leadership. Throughout her career, she has worked for City governments, Main Street organizations, travel and tourism non-profits and has served various leadership capacities across Texas, including having served as a two-time past President of Texas Downtown. Sarah believes community engagement is the singular purpose that connects each role and can inspire transformational change.
Sarah moved to the City of York in December 2023 with her two chihuahuas Boomer & Betsy. A native Texan, Sarah has roots in York County, where her ancestors roamed the streets of Downtown York almost two hundred years ago.
Urban Revitalization Manager
Bronley joined the York County Economic Alliance and Downtown Inc team in June of 2023 after seven years with the Pennsylvania House of Representatives at the office of State Rep. Carol Hill-Evans of York. During this time, he worked closely with the Representative and House Leadership to bring development funding to Downtown York and York County.
Born and raised in YoCo and a York City resident for over five years, Bronley is deeply committed to the success and vibrancy of our City and County and builds on his relationships across government, business, and community leaders to implement innovative solutions to continually make York a better place to live, work, and play. Bronley carries out Downtown Inc’s urban revitalization strategy, which includes “clean and green” activities, historic preservation, redevelopment, public art and mural installation and management, wayfinding, bike and pedestrian improvements, and public safety as well as working across the YCEA organization to advance strategic economic development initiatives.
Bronley is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and recently received his Masters in Public Policy and Administration from York College of Pennsylvania.
Marketing & Merchant Engagement Manager
Hannah joined our York County Economic Alliance and Downtown Inc team after three years at the York County SPCA developing and implementing fundraising campaigns, marketing and communications plans, and community outreach.
Hannah has become known by many through her avid support of our Downtown merchant community, her energy and enthusiasm at business ribbon cuttings and announcements, and her commitment to celebrating the success of our York community. Hannah organizes and leads the First Friday committee, manages the Welcoming Communities Grant Program, and is a lead for the Bloom Grant outreach and communication for the Downtown Inc team.
Born and raised in York County, Hannah is a graduate of York College of Pennsylvania and recently completed her Masters in Management and Leadership.
Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer
Katie Mahoney joined the York County Economic as Vice President, Marketing & Communications, in 2017, and began leadership of the Downtown Inc team in 2019, shortly after the affiliation.
She has an extensive career in non-profit fundraising, special events, marketing, and development, including previous roles at the Children’s Home of York, YWCA York, and Delone Catholic High School. During her time with the YCEA and Downtown Inc, Katie has launched the #MakeThingsHappen slogan, the I ❤ YoCo campaign, and the Historically Edgy re-brand for Downtown York. Katie is secretary of the Board of Directors for the York County SPCA, and on the board of the York Symphony Orchestra, as well as marketing committees for York Day Nursery and the Farm & Natural Land Trust.
Katie is a Pittsburgh-native turned City of York resident, where she lives with her beloved rescue pitbull, Cora.
