Why We Built a City for Front Porches

Summertime is one of the best times of year to experience what makes Woodstock truly special, and there's no place to do it like sitting on a front porch. There's something about front-porch sitting that just feels right this time of year. Maybe it's the breeze, or the way time seems to slow down for conversation. In Woodstock, we didn't just preserve that feeling. We built an entire city around it.

Over the years, we've invested in the types of public spaces that invite people to linger. Sidewalks that connect neighbors. Parks that bring generations together. A downtown that nourishes friendships through fellowship, food, and music. None of that happened by accident. We believe a great city should feel like a collection of front porches. Places where people know each other, say hello, and sit long enough to listen.

I see it on a Saturday morning at the farmers market, where my kids dart between booths while Katie and I catch up with neighbors. I see it at the amphitheater, where strangers have become friends singing Taylor Swift songs in the rain. I see it on my everyday walk downtown that almost always turns into a series of quick greetings and familiar faces. These moments may seem small, but together, they form the fabric of a connected community. They mean home.

Woodstock's design reflects this intention. From mixed-use developments that blend homes and businesses to bike paths that link neighborhoods to schools and parks, we've prioritized a layout that encourages interaction. Even our festivals and city events are built to bring people together, not just as attendees but also as contributors to a shared culture. It's not just about enjoying what's here. It's about feeling like you belong to it.

As our city grows, this idea of belonging is especially important. We've welcomed new residents from across the country who chose Woodstock not just for amenities or access, but also for a sense of community that feels increasingly rare. Our job is to protect and expand that feeling. It's not something we can legislate or build in a day. It comes from a thousand little decisions made by a city and its residents to invest in each other.

Good cities are efficient. Great cities are connected. And we believe the future belongs to places that make human connection a priority. That's exactly what we're trying to build here. As the days stretch longer and the evenings get softer, I hope you find time to enjoy a front porch or a bench on Main Street in downtown Woodstock. Our "City Unexpected" waits for you, welcoming and full of life.