WORKING IN DOWNTOWN
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Downtown Johnson City’s business community is tight-knit, collaborative, and genuinely supportive. Independent shops, creative studios, professional services, and entrepreneurs all share the same streets and that mix creates a culture where people know each other, help each other, and celebrate each other’s wins. Whether you're grabbing coffee, attending a Main Street event, or joining a networking meetup, you’re part of a community that wants to see you succeed.
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Working downtown means everything you need is close at hand. Co-working spaces, lunch spots, meeting venues, and everyday essentials are within a few walkable blocks. Parking options, transit access, and bike-friendly routes make getting around easy, and parks like Founders Park and King Commons offer quick escapes for fresh air on your lunch break. It’s a simple, streamlined way to work—no wasted time, no long commutes, just a practical daily rhythm.
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Downtown is built for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. From start-up checklists to local resources, grants, and business development support, the district offers a strong foundation for launching or relocating your company. With a built-in customer base, high foot traffic, and a supportive Main Street network, downtown gives new ventures the momentum they need from day one. This is where small businesses can plant roots and grow with the community.
DOWNTOWN JOHNSON CITY STATS
279+ Businesses
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655,675+ Annual Visitors
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3,300,000+ Unique Visits
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87 Minutes per Visit
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279+ Businesses - 655,675+ Annual Visitors - 3,300,000+ Unique Visits - 87 Minutes per Visit -
Get to Know Downtown
Downtown Johnson City is a growing, active district shaped by small businesses, steady foot traffic, and a community that keeps choosing local. The numbers tell the story.
Business Community
More than 275 businesses operate in the downtown district—shops, restaurants, services, studios, and professional offices that form the backbone of our local economy.
Visitor Activity
Over the last 12 months, Downtown Johnson City welcomed 642,400+ visitors with 3.3m visits, marking a 10% increase since 2022. People aren’t just stopping in—they’re staying. Visitors spend an average of 86 minutes exploring downtown, supporting local shops, dining, and enjoying everything the district offers.
A District on the Rise
The continued growth in activity, investment, and small-business development shows a district that’s gaining momentum year after year. Downtown isn’t just busy—it’s becoming a destination.
Setting up Shop
Setting up Shop
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Begin by reviewing available storefronts, offices, and co-working options in the district. Downtown offers a range of sizes and layouts, all within a walkable area supported by steady foot traffic and a built-in customer base.
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Once you’ve identified your space, reach out to the Main Street Program and local partners for guidance. From permitting and zoning to façade grants and small-business resources, you’ll have direct access to people who can help you navigate each step.
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After selecting your space and completing the logistics, you’re ready to open your doors. Downtown’s mix of residents, workers, students, and visitors ensures strong visibility from the start—and a community that shows up for new businesses.
Properties Downtown
Local Support
As the heart of Johnson City, downtown is where ideas come to life and businesses thrive. We’re dedicated to building a supportive, energetic community for everyone — from first-time entrepreneurs to established business owners and future residents. Through creative initiatives, public space improvements, and programs that celebrate local culture, downtown offers the perfect environment to invest, grow, and belong.
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Reimagine vacant spaces and explore what’s possible downtown.
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Want to invest into a property for current and future generations? Find funding and grants.
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Find support, tools, and funding to grow your downtown business.
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Empowering downtown businesses with grants up to $4,000 to grow and thrive.
Opening Checklist
Permits, Fire & Licensing Contacts
While every business and building is unique, getting the right approvals is simpler when you know who to call.
Here are the primary City contacts for downtown businesses:
Main Street Director
Lindsey Jones
General Questions, Grant Opportunities
Email: ljones@johnsoncitytn.org
Building Permits & Inspections
City of Johnson City Building Division
Permits, Historic Zoning, Inspections
Phone: 423-434-6047
Email: inspections@johnsoncitytn.org
Fire Prevention & Life Safety
Johnson City Fire Department – Fire Prevention
Fire code inspections, plan review, and life-safety requirements.
Phone: 423-434-6088
Business Licenses
City of Johnson City Finance Department
City Business License
Phone: 423-434-2393
Washington County Clerk - Johnson City
County Business License
Phone: 423-610-7201
1. Choose Your Location
Identify available storefronts, offices, or co-working spaces in the downtown district. Walk the area, review listings, and confirm suitability for your business type.
2. Confirm Zoning & Permits
Contact the City’s Building Division to verify zoning, required permits, and any needed inspections before you sign a lease or begin build-out.
3. Complete Fire Safety Review
Coordinate with the Fire Prevention Division for life-safety requirements, occupancy considerations, and any fire code compliance needs.
4. Apply for Business License
Register with the City of Johnson City and Washington County Clerk for your business license and complete any county or state requirements tied to your industry.
5. Secure Insurance & Utilities
Set up liability insurance, utilities, internet, and waste services prior to opening your doors.
6. Plan Your Build-Out
Work with your landlord, contractors, and city inspectors to complete renovations. Keep an eye on ADA accessibility, signage rules, and exterior changes.
Pro Tip: Coordinate early and often with City Employees to help with the approval process and feasibility of your ideas!
7. Explore Grants & Incentives
Review available micro-grants, façade improvement grants, and small-business support resources offered through the Connect Downtown Johnson City and JCDA.
8. Prepare Your Opening
Set up your POS system, signage, branding, staffing, and marketing. Reach out early to Downtown Johnson City for promotional support.
9. Open for Business
Plan a launch event or soft opening, share your announcement on community calendars, and get connected with the downtown business network.