Page 12 - BusinessWest April 27, 2026

“We are putting
federal funds
to work in our
effort to improve
downtown vitality
and support small,
local businesses.”
considered rural in the eyes of the state, which excludes
us from certain funding pools, but we’re also too small to
be considered a gateway city, which is also an amazing
program.”
Still, she added, we continue to see small developers
in Greenfield really step up, going above and beyond turn-
ing old office space into apartments. We have folks up here
working hard and investing in ways that, for them, don’t
always make financial sense; it’s because they care deeply
about people being able to live up here and be part of
what’s happening here.”
Street-level View
Desorgher noted that the city is building a downtown
that meets everyday needs in part by upgrading infrastruc-
ture and incentivizing the occupation of vacant storefronts.
“In 2026, we should see the results of a new tax credit
grant designed to revitalize long-vacant spaces,” she said.
In terms of infrastructure, “we are focused on the basics
that impact daily life: better sidewalks, smarter recycling,
and parking improvements. We have replaced roughly 10%
of our total sidewalk mileage since 2018, including nearly
4,000 feet replaced in 2025 alone.”
Through June 1, the city is accepting applicants for its
Storefront Improvement Program, which provides resourc-
es for storefront upgrades to elevate downtown aesthetic
appeal and economic vitality, with the ultimate aim of
enhancing the area as a welcoming place to visit, shop, and
work.
The program is funded through the federal Community
Development Block Grant Program and administered by
the city’s Community and Economic Development Depart-
ment, and businesses located in the central commercial
zone can apply for up to $10,000. While funding is pri-
oritized for signage and awnings, other visual storefront
improvements may be eligible.
“We are putting federal funds to work in our effort to
improve downtown vitality and support small, local busi-
nesses,” the mayor noted. “The Storefront Improvement
Program is a great opportunity for local businesses and
organizations to improve their curb appeal while contribut-
ing to the overall health of our downtown.”
Meanwhile, Osman and Little are excited to be oversee-
ing Greenspace CoWork’s two locations on either side of
289 Main St., hoping to deepen partnerships with local
organizations; continue collaborations such as the Take the
Floor competition with the Franklin County Community
Development Corp.; and host incubators, retreats, work-
shops, mixers, and conferences that further strengthen the
downtown sector’s business network.
Goldsher and Sauser originally designed Greenspace to
elicit calm and focus, incorporating wood, abundant natu-
ral light, and a variety of real plants throughout the space.
Under Osman and Little’s leadership, that aesthetic founda-
tion remains intact while the mission evolves.
Under their ownership, Greenspace has introduced sev-
eral updates, including a streamlined, automated booking
system; a more affordable and flexible membership option
for those who do not need full-time access; complimen-
tary monthly yoga sessions for members; and expanded
amenities.
“These details might seem small, but they make a dif-
ference. We want people to feel seen and considered when
they’re here,” Osman said, adding that, as BIPOC and
LGBTQ+ women business owners, they’re committed to
creating spaces that feel welcoming and inclusive to all.
Added Little, “we want people to walk in and think, ‘I
belong here’” — a sentiment certainly shared by many city
business and municipal leaders striving to make Greenfield
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APRIL 27, 2026
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