DEP Merchant Mingle Great Success

The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. (DEP) is thrilled to announce the success of its recent Downtown Merchant Mingle, hosted last night at 414 Company. The event marked an occasion for local businesses, DEP investors, annual sponsors, and community members to network, share updates, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Downtown Excelsior Springs.

The evening was made even more delightful thanks to the generous provision of snacks and drinks provided by Butterfly Kisses Boutique, Kilgore’s Vintage & Design and Vesta Hearth & Home which were prepared by Rob & Ceil Stark.

Key Highlights from the Merchant Mingle

Experience Excelsior Trip Planner

DEP proudly unveiled the 2024 Experience Excelsior Trip Planner, a comprehensive guide designed to enhance the visitor experience to our charming town. This planner is a testament to DEP’s commitment to promote Excelsior Springs attractions, businesses, and events.

Copies of the trip planner can be picked up from the Hall of Waters Visitor Center or viewed online digitally here.

2023 Gold Annual Sponsors

Downtown Streetscape Redesign Plan

An update was provided on the Downtown Excelsior Springs Streetscape Redesign Plan, illustrating a bright future for the aesthetic and functional enhancement of the downtown area.

The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. completed a Streetscape Redesign Plan in 2023 working with consultants like ReEnvision Design, Pixel Foundry and Lamp Rynearson. The goal of the redesign project is to create a place for people with a vision of vibrancy. Key project features included safety (crosswalks, intersections, traffic calming methods, increased visibility, fire suppression and reduced flooding), Environment (planting beds, air quality, bioswales, storm runoff, LED lighting, bicycle racks, carbon footprints and benches), Maintenance (planter conversions, concrete, lighting, trash receptacles and native plants) and Wayfinding (continuity, intuitive design, supplemental signage, identifiable and safe crosswalks).
DEP is currently completing a preference poll for business owners to share what aspects of the streetscape redesign are of most importance to their day-to-day business operations. DEP will be working with the City of Excelsior Springs to secure grant funding in order to make some of the streetscape upgrades a reality. You can check out some of the visual mockups below.

Attendees were briefed on a lineup of upcoming events designs to attract visitors and locals alike, including Sippin’ Into Springtime, Spring Open Houses, Gin & Jazz, Lyrics on the Lawn, Wine Festival, and the BBQ & Fly-In on the River. These events promise to bring together the community in celebration of our local culture.

DEP introduced a new initiative to feature local, downtown businesses through weekly blogs. This effort aims to foster a deeper connection between businesses and the community by highlighting their stories, offerings and unique value.

Insightful data on downtown visitation trends was shared, offering a positive outlook on the increasing interest and engagement from both locals and tourists in the downtown area. DEP will be releasing the full reports soon, but shared that in 2023 downtown welcomed 403, 706 visits from 113,205 visitors. 39.8% of those visits came from individuals residing in the 64024 zip code and there were $6.94 million dollars spent based on reported taxable retail sales in the district.

A significant update regarding the development of Lithia Landing was provided, indicating progress and exciting future prospects for this landmark project.

The Merchant Mingle also served as a platform for new individuals to introduce themselves, including John Myer who is a part of the renovation of the former Mill Inn, Jesseka from Holistic Spring Herb Co that will be relocating to Downtown Excelsior Springs next month, and Pam Myers who will be opening Huey’s Hidden Vault this spring.

The Downtown Merchant Mingle underscored the collective spirit and dedication of the community towards fostering growth, collaboration, and prosperity. The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. extends its heartfelt thanks to the 414 Company, their investors, sponsors, and all attendees for making this event a remarkable success.

Additional Event Pictures