Eight new “Dine Local Shop Local Needham” banners will be hung in the downtown business area along Great Plain Avenue that aim to encourage supporting the many locally owned small businesses and restaurants in Needham.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the campaign also includes five banners to be hung along Chapel Street that remind residents to wear face coverings downtown to help protect the health and safety of workers, residents and the community at large.

“Every day we make a choice about where we’re going to spend our money – where we’re going to get our lunch or pick up a gift for a loved one. These small choices add up and are key to the sustainability of our businesses community,” Select Board Member Marianne Cooley said. “Particularly during these times with so much uncertainty, we can make thoughtful decisions that will help ensure our local economy remains strong in the months and years to come.”

“We’re grateful to the Town for supporting our businesses as we all encounter challenges unlike anything we’ve ever experienced,” said Newton-Needham Chamber President Greg Reibman. “The good news is we have a wonderful downtown and terrific businesses. Shopping and dining in Needham isn’t just good for our community, it’s genuinely enjoyable.”

The Town and the Chamber worked with the Needham Community Revitalization Trust Fund to secure the banner space through its banner program.

"And a big shout out to Steven Schwede and his team at Fast Signs in Needham for giving us a great price on the banners," Reibman added.

The Town has worked closely with the business community in recent months, creating outdoor dining space for meals to go, reducing liquor license renewal fees, providing signage for COVID-related safety measures and eliminating parking meter fees through Labor Day. The Chamber is gearing up to launch a larger shop and dine local campaign in the fall.