In this episode of the Wilkes-Barre Connect podcast, we hear from Larry Newman, the founding Executive Director of the Diamond City Partnership (DCP), Wilkes-Barre’s nonprofit downtown management organization, where he plans and leads Downtown Wilkes-Barre’s revitalization.   A trained architect, Larry has always been fascinated by the “built environment”, specifically cities and towns. Eventually he realized what he was really drawn to improving the public realm, essentially the spaces everyone shares. No matter who we or where we are, the quality of our environment effects us all.    We discuss the work of the DCP and it’s role in enhancing downtown Wilkes-Barre’s environment. We also discuss some of the organized events meant to bring folks into the downtown footprint, including the Holiday Market, Sunsets on South Main, and other community engagement. We also discuss the economic impact Downtown has on Wilkes-Barre as a whole and how growing and maintaining a vibrant downtown district helps not only the residents and tenants of Downtown Wilkes-Barre, but the city overall.   Larry and his team may not be who you turn to to start your business, but when it comes to resources to grow your business and connect you with partners who can help, the DCP should be an early call!   You can find the Diamond City Partnership online at  - https://downtownwilkesbarre.org/, or on social media at @downtownwilkesbarre.