Fairport Forward

In this episode of Fairport Forward, we explore how art shapes everyday life in Fairport and why that matters for the Village’s future. From benches, banners, and streetscape details to live music, seasonal events, and local maker spaces, creativity is woven into how Fairport looks, sounds, and feels. Joined by guest Pat Rapp, we discuss how art influences behavior downtown, strengthens community identity, and supports the local economy by increasing foot traffic, encouraging exploration, and signaling quality to businesses and investors. The conversation also looks ahead to opportunities like the proposed Public Art Trail and how Fairport can invest in art strategically as “soft infrastructure” that supports long-term growth.Mentioned in this episode:6x6 Art-Making Party on March 14, 2026Burning Man ProjectMeow WolfFairport Public Arts CommitteeFind Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

What public projects could shape the future of downtown Fairport? In Meet the Projects, Part 2, we’re joined by Fairport Village Manager Bryan White to break down the conceptual public projects included in the Village’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative application and the vision behind them. Contact Bryan White, Fairport's Village ManagerFind Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

In this episode, we take a step back to refresh listeners on the conceptual private projects included in the Village of Fairport’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) application, reconnecting them to the community priorities we’ve been exploring this season.From new housing and mixed-use development to canal frontage enhancements, historic preservation, and expanded arts, cultural, and educational spaces, this episode highlights how private investments support goals like walkability, economic vitality, and an active downtown.Download Full Project Descriptions (PDF)Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

In this episode of Fairport Forward, we explore how the way people move through Fairport shapes how the Village feels and why that matters for the local economy. Drawing from our community survey feedback, we talk about how Fairport is at its best when it’s experienced at human scale: walking along Main Street, biking into town, docking along the canal, and lingering a little longer.We discuss why walkability is one of Fairport’s core strengths, how calm and predictable movement supports local businesses, and how different modes of transportation can work together. Joined by urbanist Arian Horbovetz, we look at what works in other village-scale communities and how Fairport can build on what already makes it special.The Urban Phoenix Blog: https://theurbanphoenix.com/Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

Today we’re talking about tourism in Fairport - why we’re proud that people want to visit, and why balancing that popularity with everyday life can sometimes be challenging. We’ll explore what tourism means for our local economy, how it affects residents, and how communities can manage growth intentionally. To help ground the conversation, we’re joined by Katie Dee from Visit Rochester, the official tourism promotion agency for Monroe County and the Finger Lakes region.Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

Today we’re talking about something that’s become impossible to ignore: housing in the Village and why it matters for everyone, even if you’re not looking to move.A healthy village needs enough homes for the people who want to live here...at different ages, different incomes, and different stages of life.In this conversation, we’re digging into what kinds of housing fit a village like ours. We’ll talk about what we heard from you, and what practical steps could help us create more homes so more people who love our Village have room to stay.Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

What gives Fairport its "village charm?" In this episode, we talk about the small details and shared experiences that make our village feel special. From walkable streets, local shops, and historic character to canal views, community events, and everyday moments of connection. We also discuss how thoughtful planning and intentional choices can help protect what residents love while supporting a vibrant, welcoming Main Street. Charm isn’t accidental...it’s something we choose together as Fairport moves forward.Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

In this episode of Fairport Forward, we dig into one of the most talked about topics from our community survey: parking. Residents told us it’s a top concern — and we explore why. Johnna, Amy, and guest Jill Wiedrick (Village Planner for the Village of Fairport) unpack the strong feelings around parking, then compare those perceptions with the findings of recent parking studies.Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website

In our first episode of Fairport Forward, hosts Johnna McCooey and Amy Olds introduce the podcast and explain why they wanted to start this series now —before any grant decision — so the community’s ideas and feedback don’t stay buried in a spreadsheet. This episode highlights key themes that emerged from public engagement events, including what people love most about Fairport, what’s behind the “Fairport Feeling,” and how we can honor what people love while planning responsibly for the future.Find Fairport OCED Online: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Village of Fairport Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Website