The Coos Bay Downtown Association (CBDA) was founded in 1982. Several local business owners came together with the common goal of bringing foot traffic to the downtown area. Small in size but big on ambition, this group of businessmen and women created events like the Blackberry Arts Festival and the Downtown Farmers Market. The Association continued to grow in membership and in 2012 became a part of the national Main Street Program, which leverages community assets to generate investment, create jobs, and foster the rehabilitation of downtown areas and Main Streets. As part of this program, CBDA is supported by a Board of Directors, Main Street Manager, and four Committees: Promotions, Organization, Design, and Economic Development. CBDA works closely with its members, downtown businesses, and local organizations to strengthen existing businesses, expand opportunities for new businesses, and plan events and activities that improve the quality of life in downtown Coos Bay