Recommendation 1: Implement Bike-Sharing and Micro-Mobility Program - Introduce a bike-sharing system with 8-10 stations strategically placed at key locations including downtown venues, hotels, and the connection to Pinehurst Village. Partner with established providers like Zagster or regional operators to offer both traditional bikes and e-bikes. Include dedicated bike lanes on main corridors connecting downtown to resort areas. Example: Greenville, SC implemented a similar program with 200 bikes across 30 stations, achieving 50,000+ rides in the first year. Measurable outcome: Target 25,000 rides annually within two years, with 30% usage by business event attendees.
Recommendation 2: Create Digital Wayfinding and Mobility App - Develop a comprehensive mobile app or enhance existing DMO resources with interactive maps, walking routes, estimated times between venues, accessibility information, and real-time updates on local transportation options. Include curated walking tours connecting business venues with dining and attractions. Example: Charleston's Explore Charleston app provides similar functionality with 100,000+ downloads. Measurable outcome: Achieve 5,000 app downloads in year one, with 70% of business event attendees reporting improved navigation experience.
Recommendation 3: Expand Pedestrian Zones with Seasonal Street Closures - Designate specific downtown streets for seasonal or weekend pedestrian-only zones during peak business event seasons, creating enhanced outdoor networking spaces. Install temporary seating, shade structures, and event programming. Example: Burlington, VT's Church Street Marketplace demonstrates successful year-round pedestrian zones that increase foot traffic by 40%. Measurable outcome: Increase downtown pedestrian activity by 25% during closure periods and attract 3+ additional business events annually citing enhanced walkability.
Recommendation 4: Develop Comprehensive Mobility Hub at Key Hotel Clusters - Establish a centralized mobility hub offering bike rentals, e-scooters, walking maps, and shuttle coordination near major hotel concentrations. Staff the hub during business hours with local ambassadors providing personalized getting-around advice and accessibility support. Example: Asheville's downtown visitor center mobility hub serves 15,000+ visitors annually. Measurable outcome: Serve 8,000+ business event attendees in year one, with 85% satisfaction rating on mobility assistance.
Recommendation 5: Create Branded Walking Routes with Enhanced Signage - Design and implement 3-4 branded walking routes connecting key business venues, hotels, dining districts, and attractions with distinctive wayfinding markers, distance indicators, and estimated walking times. Include QR codes linking to digital content about local history and amenities. Example: Savannah's color-coded walking trails increase visitor engagement and extend average walking distances by 30%. Measurable outcome: 60% of business event attendees utilize marked routes, with average walking time between venues reduced by 15% through optimized pathways.
