05/22/2026
Construction is finally starting to wind down, streets are reopening, and for the first time in a long time, Burlington truly feels like it’s getting better.
Personally, my blood pressure is a lot lower these days because we’re simply not seeing the level of bad behavior on the streets that we experienced over the last few years. There’s still work to do, but there’s progress, and that matters.
I truly believe Burlington will bounce back. But it only happens if all of us support it.
People need to remember that when Burlington struggles, it affects everyone around it. If Burlington doesn’t do well, Williston won’t do well. South Burlington won’t do well. Colchester won’t do well. Yes, your local communities will still have support from Chittenden County residents, but what disappears when Burlington struggles is tourism.
Tourists are the whipped cream on the ice cream. The gravy on the french fries.
They bring the extra energy, spending, and excitement that help all of our businesses thrive. And the only way we bring tourists back is by first filling our streets again with Vermonters who believe in this city and want to be here.
Burlington is still the Queen City. Let’s keep showing up for it.
#802
