Ten years ago, the city of Virginia Beach made a bold and visionary investment in creativity, culture and economic development. In April 2015, City Council established the ViBe Creative District, an initiative designed to spur economic growth, attract businesses and visitors, and create a vibrant space for artists and entrepreneurs. A decade later, the results speak for themselves: ViBe is one of the most successful arts districts in the country, demonstrating the power of public and private investment and leadership in the arts.

Arts Alliance has been a steadfast partner of ViBe from the very beginning, providing crucial grant support and championing the district’s mission. Today, we celebrate not only 10 years of growth, but the transformational impact ViBe has had on Virginia Beach.

ViBe has proven that creative investment is smart investment. Once an area struggling with vacant storefronts and blight, the district has flourished into a bustling hub of creativity and entrepreneurism. Annual gross sales in ViBe have increased by more than $33 million since 2015, and business licenses have more than doubled. The district’s small business grant program has yielded a nearly 5-to-1 return on investment, demonstrating how strategic funding can catalyze private investment. Virginia Beach’s tax revenue has grown substantially thanks to the district’s success, and property values in the area have increased by 41%, reflecting the desirability of this revitalized space.

ViBe has transformed Virginia Beach’s landscape. More than 73 large-scale murals, dozens of utility box wraps, creative crosswalks and public sculptures have turned the district into an open-air art gallery. This investment in public art not only enhances the city’s aesthetic appeal but also fosters community pride, connectivity and a sense of place. The once-underutilized 18th Street has been reimagined into a pedestrian-friendly, art-filled corridor that welcomes thousands of visitors every month.

At its core, ViBe is about creating opportunities. The district has supported hundreds of local artists through commissions, performances and stipends, infusing more than $600,000 directly into the creative community. It has nurtured small businesses, from coffee shops to design studios, making Virginia Beach a destination for creatives seeking a place to thrive. It has also nurtured meaningful and lasting partnerships with nonprofit organizations. ViBe has also become a model for other cities, inspiring similar initiatives across Virginia and beyond.

Visitors from around the world now recognize Virginia Beach not just for its coastline, but for its culture. ViBe’s integration with tourism efforts, including its collaboration with the Convention & Visitors Bureau, has attracted travelers eager to experience the district’s art, markets and events. Programs such as the Old Beach Farmers Market, First Fridays and mural festivals have strengthened the ties between neighborhoods, businesses and residents, making ViBe a place where people truly connect.

As we celebrate this milestone, we must also look ahead. The next decade of ViBe holds immense potential. New investments in infrastructure, expanded programming and continued support for artists and businesses will ensure that ViBe remains a beacon of innovation and opportunity. The “Good ViBes” Celebration Paver Program and upcoming city ordinance updates reflect a commitment to long-term sustainability and growth.

The success of the ViBe Creative District is proof that when economic opportunity and creative expression come together, extraordinary things happen — and is no surprise given the results of the Americans for the Arts’ “Arts and Economic Prosperity 6” study for South Hampton Roads which reveal both meaningful economic impact and strong public support for arts and culture in our region.

Arts Alliance is proud to have been a part of this journey, and we remain committed to supporting ViBe’s continued evolution. Here’s to the next 10 years of creativity, collaboration and community vibrancy in Virginia Beach.