Spotlight On: John O’Brien, Executive Director, Downtown West Chester

December 2025 — In an interview with Invest:, John O’Brien, the executive director of Downtown West Chester, a business improvement district, discussed the city’s business climate, the importance of supporting local businesses, and plans to enhance the downtown business district moving forward.

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What were the most significant milestones or achievements for West Chester Downtown over the past few years? 

West Chester is located about an hour outside of Philadelphia and 40 minutes from Delaware. Despite being only 1.8 square miles, it has a population of 20,000, giving it a density comparable to Philadelphia. The past five years, especially post-pandemic, have been challenging, but more businesses opened than closed during this period. A recent study ranked the town among the 10 least affected by the pandemic. As a college town, the presence of the university usually helps buffer against recessions, but its temporary closure during the pandemic was a significant challenge. Currently, the vacancy rate is the lowest it’s ever been, and events are being used to boost foot traffic.

How would you describe the business climate, and are you seeing any changes in regard to business growth or consumer spending? 

An annual survey helps gauge where businesses stand in terms of sales growth and challenges. Over the last few years, many businesses have reported that 2024 sales surpassed those of 2023, though some, particularly sit-down restaurants and coffee houses, are still seeing sales below 2023 levels. These businesses are all within a one-mile radius and compete for a limited customer base. There’s optimism about upcoming housing developments that could stabilize demand and expand the customer base. While the general sentiment heading into 2025 is optimistic, a key challenge this year has been tariffs. Independent retailers, unlike larger chains, cannot absorb increased costs when suppliers raise prices, and there’s often no time to reconfigure supply chains.

What is the business mix in West Chester?

The business district comprises over 250 small businesses across various sectors, including a wide array of eateries — many Italian restaurants and five to six coffee houses — creating strong competition. For restaurants to thrive, it’s not enough to offer good food; it has to be exceptional. There’s also a strong base of professional services, such as law firms, accountants, and insurance agencies. While the return to office conversation is ongoing elsewhere, remote work hasn’t significantly affected the area. Local office spaces are relatively small, at about 5,000 to 8,000 square feet, and companies with hybrid models are drawn to the area, partly due to its excellent school district.

What events is the organization facilitating to help promote consumer traffic? 

Events have evolved since COVID. Previously, marketing was focused on West Chester as a destination, but the organization rebranded and now presents itself publicly as “West Chester Downtown,” even though it still operates as a business improvement district (BID). The current strategy is to host smaller, more manageable events that cater to all age groups, such as Restaurant Week and an Easter-themed event in early April, when we also hold an adult version with eggs containing coupons to support local businesses.

Other activities include gallery nights and one-night shows. The city closed four blocks to create a pedestrian mall, which began as a COVID measure but became a successful initiative. Other highlights include Thanksgiving weekend events that promote shopping local and a holiday market with a retail focus.

What role do partnerships play in West Chester’s economic development strategy? 

The BID shares an office with the local chamber of commerce and collaborates on events and advocacy initiatives. Small businesses lack lobbyists to represent their interests at the state level, so it’s vital to ensure they are heard. There’s also a development council focused on economic development and providing information about grants and loans. They work to ensure small-business owners are aware of available resources. Recently, managers from around the country visited for a walking tour of the area.

Moving forward, what are your top priorities for the organization, and what opportunities do you see on the horizon? 

There is a desire to expand the footprint of the business district. West Chester is already vibrant both economically and artistically, and since the BID’s founding in 2000, the goal has been to enhance the area. Future focus areas include improving transportation, such as bringing back train service, and increasing walkability, all while continuing to highlight the town’s strong retail offerings.

Is there anything you would like to add or expand upon? 

Being a small-business owner is challenging. The money spent locally significantly impacts the community, helping to support sports teams, civic groups, and more. The message of shopping locally and community reinvestment needs to be continually reinforced. While online shopping is convenient, the in-person experience and its community impact are invaluable.

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