In 1974,  Major portion of the City of Brandenburg was destroyed by a tornado. Over 40 year later, the community was still struggling. In 2016, the downtown area had rundown buildings and empty apartments. 

The University of Kentucky Community and Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky, part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and Cooperative Extension Service; partnered with the Meade County Extension Service, and Meade County Chamber of Commerce to pilot the First Impression Program.  First Impression sends a team of trained adults to communities who record the strengths and weaknesses that a visitor or prospective resident sees.  

The information from First Impression was presented to local officials, business, and community leaders during a monthly Chamber of Commerce meeting by a CEDIK representative. 

After receiving the report from the First Impression program, the local leaders created and prioritized action items to improve the community.  Since 2018, Extension, the Chamber of Commerce and elected officials have worked together to implement changes such as:

·      Transferred ownership of downtown buildings to people committed to revitalization

·      Secured funding for sidewalks replacement to support local business and improve the built environment

·      Opened 4 businesses with 2 expected to open in the next year

·      Relocated a statue from Louisville to highlight the history of the Civil War in the county 

·      Created murals behind the statues on the water front to tell the history of Meade County

·      Added benches to the Riverfront Park

·      Constructed a cover over the existing downtown amphitheater so more outdoor events such as movies in the park and outdoor concerts could be held.

·      Large hanging baskets were hung on street lights along the river to add color and life during the warmer months.

·      Worked on cleaning up the abandoned sewer treatment building which will allow expanded seating areas and parking for outdoor venues.  

·      Grants have been approved to redesign the existing road along Main Street to provide easier access for boats launching into the river. 

The downtown area revitalization is having a positive impact on families as well.  The improved built environments as well as the free movies and concerts in the park give families of all socioeconomic levels opportunities to spend time together through exercise and cultural enrichment.  

Mr. Bill Corum, one of the key leaders who implemented suggestions from the First Impressions report, stated “Without a doubt it made us realize the importance of restoring our Main Street, downtown and river front.  The community is taking action on many things mentioned in the report."  

Downtown Brandenburg prior to 1974. Work in progress by artist.