An annual report from Charlottesville’s Office of Economic Development sounds a positive tone while celebrating a historic milestone that happens later this year.
“Just as the Declaration of Independence in 1776 marked the beginning of the American experiment with democracy, the City’s bold decision in the mid-1970’s to create a pedestrian-only mall reflected a forward-thinking investment in public life and community,” reads the introductory paragraph from economic development director Chris Engel.
The Office of Economic Development has five full-time employees and a budget of $805,521 in the FY2026 budget.
“The goal of OED is to enhance Charlottesville’s economy, create quality jobs, increase per capita income, and improve the standard of living and quality of life for residents,” according to a summary in the budget. “Economic Development staff promotes Charlottesville as a premier location for business and regularly works with entrepreneurs and existing businesses seeking to grow here.”
The Downtown Mall turns 50 this year and the report claims that visitation was up four percent in 2025 with around 2.8 million visitors.
The report also notes that commercial investment totaled $68.6 million in Charlottesville in 2025 with 181 permits issued.
In 2025, the Office of Economic Development ran a program called Go Start-Up that trained thirteen entrepreneurs in two groups how to turn their ideas into an actual business.
“The cohorts reflected a diverse mix of business ideas and industries, including food services, logistics, bookkeeping, therapeutic counseling, and handyman services, showcasing the breadth of entrepreneurial activity emerging in the community,” reads page 9 of the report.
The report also notes that Brenda Kelley has joined the office after the closure last year of the Office of Community Solutions. In addition to managing leases of city-owned space, Kelley is also overseeing the Mall’s 50th anniversary.
The report can be viewed here.
Before you go: Paid subscribers cover the cost of conducting research for this article which was originally published in the February 25, 2026 edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement. You can either subscribe through Substack or make a charitable contribution. The goal of Town Crier Productions is to increase awareness about what is happening at the local, regional, state, and federal government levels. Please share the work with others if you want people to know things!
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