- In 2007, DSC raised over $25,000 in private donations to hire Gates Leighton, a landscape architectural firm, to conduct a Design and Engineering Study of Dedham Square. The study was necessary in order for the town to apply for a Public Works Economic Development (PWED) grant for over a million dollars to fund streetscape improvements in the Square which focus on making it a safer for pedestrians and motorists. Aesthetic improvements will include brick lined sidewalks and gas lamps.
- DSC is working with town officials on ideas for the development of the Keystone Lot (the town’s parking lot at the corner of Eastern Avenue and High Street), a significant element for the economic development of the Square.
- In 2008, DSC launched its "Sign and Façade Improvement Program" with its first major project being the restoration of the Dedham Community Theatre’s Marquee. Improving the exterior of the Theatre, the economic anchor of the Square, will create a ripple effect toward other aesthetic improvements in the Square. The DSC provides matching funds to Square merchants and property owners interested in making physical improvements to their signs, awnings and building facades.
- In November 2008, DSC organized a community-wide event -- “Light Up the Square” to celebrate the completion of the new theatre marquee. Other DSC events have included our Annual Holiday Stroll, Spring Music & Art Festival, Fall Gala and children's concerts.
- In July 2008, DSC launched the weekly Dedham Farmer’s Market which has been a major success, drawing hundreds of visitors each week. Held every Wednesday afternoon through October, the market features fresh produce from 6 local farms and several specialty food vendors, live entertainment and a community table. The market helps to energize the Square and to bring increased business for Square merchants.
- In fall 2009, DSC, in partnership with Dedham Civic Pride and the Town of Dedham, installed a new sign at the intersection of Eastern Avenue and Providence Highway to mark the entrance into Historic Dedham Square. This major gateway into the Square is now more visually attractive and inviting to visitors.
- Our bi-weekly “Square Scoop” column in the Dedham Times attracts a wide readership. The Scoop reports news in the Square to keep people abreast of our revitalization efforts as well as to attract more people to our historic downtown.
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