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Chester County Press

Q & A with Brian Dix, the new executive director of Oxford Mainstreet, Inc.

11/02/2021 01:35PM ● By Steven Hoffman

Q: Brian, before you were selected to serve as Oxford Mainstreet, Inc.’s new executive director, you worked for more than a year as the Mainstreet Manager for the organization. What was that experience like, and what did you work on in that role?


A: I joined the organization in October of 2020. Because of the status of the pandemic at that point, I began at a part-time status. I immediately jumped in with preparations for the holiday decor downtown. Quickly into the New Year, however, things began improving at such a pace that I expanded my position to full time in March. Shortly after, we hosted our first Drive-In Movie fundraiser for the Shoebox Theater. We resumed our First Friday series in July and have hosted monthly events since. Additionally, I worked with the former executive director to secure a number of grants, including a Facade Restoration Grant for downtown businesses.


Q: You had ties to Oxford even before you started working for Oxford Mainstreet, Inc., right?


A: Yes! I moved to Oxford Borough in 2006 and completed middle school and high school in the Oxford School District. I thoroughly enjoyed living within walking distance to downtown and continued to visit throughout my college years and beyond. I am thrilled with the opportunity to serve my hometown.



Q: As the new executive director of Oxford Mainstreet, Inc., you’ll play a part in shaping the downtown’s future. Tell us what you think can happen in downtown Oxford in the next few years.


A: Our current businesses really showed their grit, determination, and resilience over the last 18 months. As we emerge on the “other side” of this pandemic, Oxford is poised for great things. We welcomed multiple new businesses in the spring and a few others are set to open soon. I think we can look forward to increased diversity of businesses in the downtown core as well as continued streetscape improvements and improved traffic/transportation operation.



Q: Can you update us on the efforts to open the Shoebox Theater?


A: The Shoebox Theater was an initiative, not unlike many others, that suffered setbacks as a result of the pandemic. However, fundraising efforts resumed and funds have been secured for the next phase of construction. Stay tuned for updates!



Q: As the new OMI executive director, what are some of the things that you’ll be working on in the near future? Are there new plans or new activities for 2022 that you can mention now?


A: Presently, I am working to facilitate the Facade Grant application and granting process. There will be several businesses that receive matching funds to improve their facades. I am also excited to continue the search for the next Main Street Manager with a goal of that person joining the organization by year’s end. We are also excitedly preparing for the return of Country Christmas on December 3. It is quickly approaching and I know there will be a lot of growth and energy downtown. We’ll be announcing our 2022 sponsorship opportunities and programming schedule soon.


Q: How can people get involved in the effort to revitalize downtown Oxford?

A: There are so many great ways to get involved! We are always looking for and welcoming new volunteers. Whether assisting at a First Friday or with downtown planting, there is an opportunity for everyone. Additionally, continuing to support your favorite downtown business is always a great way to directly contribute to your community’s success.