A $5,175 municipal grant provided through a partnership between Invest Greenville and Pitt County Government has helped the Village of Simpson strengthen its identity, improve communication with residents, and create a more welcoming first impression for visitors and future investment.
The project focused on a community branding and marketing initiative that included the development of a new municipal website and the installation of welcome signage at both Simpson Ballpark and Town Hall. Together, these improvements modernized the village's public image while making it easier for residents, businesses, and visitors to access information about local government services, events, and community resources.
"The new branding freshens our image and lets people know we are looking forward," said Mayor Rich Zeck.
The new municipal website provides residents with a central location for accessing government information, learning about community events, and staying informed about village initiatives. It also serves as an important resource for prospective residents, businesses, and visitors seeking information about Simpson and the opportunities available within the community.
In addition to improving communication, the website enhances transparency by making local government information more accessible while providing a professional online presence that reflects the village's vision for the future.
The project also included the installation of new welcome signs at Simpson Ballpark and Town Hall. These highly visible improvements reinforce the community's identity and create a positive first impression for the thousands of residents and visitors who travel through the village each year.
Community branding plays an important role in economic development by helping municipalities communicate who they are and what they value. A strong brand builds confidence, promotes tourism and recreation, and helps communities distinguish themselves when attracting new residents, businesses, and investment opportunities. For a growing community like Simpson, these improvements help tell its story while creating a sense of pride among those who call the village home.
"Communities compete for attention every day, whether they're attracting residents, visitors, or future investment," said David Horn, vice president of operations and strategic partnerships at Invest Greenville. "Projects like Simpson's demonstrate that economic development isn't always about large infrastructure investments. Sometimes it's about giving a community the tools to tell its story, communicate effectively, and showcase the quality of life it has to offer."
Kelly Andrews, director of Pitt County Economic Development, said branding projects are an important investment because they strengthen both community identity and long term economic competitiveness.
"When a community presents itself with a clear identity and modern communication tools, it creates confidence for everyone who interacts with it," Andrews said. "Simpson's new website and welcome signage reflect a community that is investing in itself while making it easier for residents, businesses, and visitors to connect with everything the village has to offer."
Town Clerk Susan Ellsworth believes the improvements reflect the direction Simpson is heading.
"Times change, and these upgrades show that Simpson is the kind of town where families can put down roots and thrive," Ellsworth said.
The Village of Simpson's branding initiative demonstrates how municipal grants can support projects that strengthen a community's identity while creating lasting value for residents and visitors alike. By investing in communication, visibility, and community pride, the partnership between Invest Greenville and Pitt County Government continues to help municipalities complete projects that improve quality of life and position them for future success.
To learn more about the Municipal Grant Program and its impact throughout Pitt County, click here.
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