What is South Burlington City Center Collaborative?

The South Burlington City Center Collaborative (SB3C) is a volunteer-driven nonprofit with one clear purpose: to build the heart of South Burlington. We are shaping the City Center District into a thriving, inclusive, and bicycle-and pedestrian-friendly downtown hub - a gathering place where community, commerce, and culture meet.

Where is the City Center?

If you’re familiar with South Burlington, you may be surprised to hear about efforts to improve our downtown. What downtown?

City Center is a large, rapidly transforming business district that includes Market Street, Dorset Street, Williston Road, the Blue Mall, and the University Mall. And there is a lot of great stuff packed into that area! We are home to great local shopping, delicious eateries, affordable housing, municipal services, public gathering spaces, and more.

What Does SB3C Do?

SB3C works alongside the city and other partners to help improve the business district and create opportunities for people to gather and enjoy City Center. We are working on a wide range of projects, including local art installations, community engagement campaigns, and exciting events.

SB3C is led by our Board of Directors and Executive Director Sophia Babbitt. They are supported by the committees: volunteer groups that focus on specific project areas, such as district design, organizational governance, events and marketing, and small business support.

Our design committee is working to improve wayfinding in the district to help pedestrians navigate between the shopping areas. This will include updated signage with a cohesive look and feel that connects and beautifies the area and supports foot traffic for small businesses. Our economic vitality committee will conduct a data-driven market analysis to understand the economic opportunities in the district and identify solutions that meet those needs. Become a member to support this work and find out about future projects!

SB3C follows the Main Street Approach, a nationally-recognized framework for commercial district revitalization. Learn more about the Main Street Approach >

How Can You Help?

We work alongside a rich mix of local partners to achieve these goals. Our work aligns closely with the city of South Burlington, business owners within our district, volunteers, residents, and visitors. We are always looking to bring more people into our vision—become a member or explore volunteer opportunities to get involved!