Tina Workman, president of Downtown Roanoke Incorporated, presented an update on Nov. 17 on the organization’s downtown service district work and its Downtown Ambassador program, which track records show now provides more than 300 weekly service hours and an outreach team that connects unsheltered residents with service providers.

Workman said the program is in its fourth year and has expanded from a four‑member to an eight‑member team that supports cleaning, hospitality and outreach. "This is by far one of the most transformational things that I’ve been involved in downtown," she said, noting the program’s mix of beautification, vendor support and outreach work.

Will Terry of Block by Block described the ambassador operations and outreach metrics and noted the annual expense for the program is "a little over $570,000 a year," funded primarily by DRI with support from ARPA dollars, EDA grants and private property‑owner contributions. Council members asked about the mix of funding and whether city support will be needed as federal dollars phase out; Workman said DRI will seek additional partners and contributions.

Transportation pilot: Workman and Terry said they have secured about $60,000 toward an unsheltered shuttle concept to take people to service providers; they estimated the shuttle would cost about $100,000 a year to operate and hoped to launch a pilot by early 2026.

Why it matters: Council members praised the ambassador program for improving downtown appearance and safety and for providing outreach to people experiencing homelessness. Vice Mayor McGuire and others pressed for clarity on long‑term funding sources should federal grants wane.

Next steps: DRI will continue fundraising and partner outreach for the shuttle pilot and for sustaining the ambassador program; council members and staff will continue coordination on funding options and program evaluation.