Frequently Asked Questions -
Got a question? Email the Director Janice Williams
What is the Mission of Roslindale Village Main Street?
RVMS works with community volunteers to foster a vital and thriving business district which in turn benefits the entire community. The Main Street approach is a comprehensive approach to providing merchant groups and community residents with the tools and information necessary to compete in todays marketplace. The Main Street approach has four key elements: design, community organization, promotion, and economic
restructuring. The work done in these areas by community volunteers helps to capitalize on Roslindale's unique historical, cultural and architectural assets while also addressing the
many economic development needs around small business retention and
developmental recruitment in light of strong competition from shopping malls and
discount retailers.
Who takes care of Adams Park?
Roslindale Village Main Street oversees the maintenance of Adams Park through a generous donation from The Cooperative Bank, Roslindale. RVMS contracts with a landscaper to maintain the Park. The Park is owned by the City of Boston and is part of the City of Boston Parks Department.
Is Roslindale Village Main Street a City Department?
No, Roslindale Village Main Street is an independent 501 3C non profit organization founded by Roslindale business owners and residents in 1985.
What is the structure of the Roslindale Village Main Street Organization?
RVMS has one paid employee - the executive director and a 21 member volunteer board of directors. The board consists of Roslindale business owners, residents and professionals. Additional volunteers make up committees: Promotions, Design and Economic Development.
How Can I get Involved?
The best way to get involved is to join a committee. Call for an area that interests you. We also need volunteers to help run events. Call Janice at 617-327-4065 if you would like to be on our volunteer list.
Promotions: Plans and manages events in the business district.
Economic Development: Works on needs assessment (surveys, market research, demographics, etc.), marketing and special business projects.
Design - Provides free design assistance to merchants to improve storefronts. Helps merchants apply for city funds for storefront improvement.
Where Does Funding for Roslindale Village Main Street Come From?
RVMS receives some funding from the Boston Main Street program as does 18 other Main Street programs but the majority of our funding is raised through our own efforts - pledges from business owners, memberships and fund raisers.
What Events Does RVMS Sponsor Each Year?
Spring - Egg Hunt and Clean Up Day
Summer - Farmers Market, Concerts in Adams Park
Fall - Harvest Festival,
Cooperative Bank Trick or Treat Trot
Winter - Holiday Shopping Events and Tree Lighting
Who are the elected officials for the Roslindale area?
City Councilor Rob Consalvo - 617-635-4210 - Email
State Representative Jeffrey Sanchez -617-722-2370 Email
State Senator Marian Walsh - 617-722-1348 - Email
Who do I call if there is a problem on City property?
The Mayor's Hotline at 617-635-4500
Is there a department in the City that helps businesses?
Yes, the Office of Business Development - Web Site
26 Court St., Boston, MA 02108. Telephone: 617.635.3880