CityCenter Danbury has named Betsy Paynter as the new executive director of the downtown development district.
Since 2016, Paynter has been economic and community development manager for the town of Brookfield. Before that, the Danbury native held the economic development job in Newtown.
“I’m ready for the challenge to help the businesses, property owners and residents move CityCenter to the next level,” Paynter said. “There is so much potential to build on the great work that CityCenter has already achieved and I’m looking forward to working with everyone.”
Paynter will start on Aug. 1. She reports to the CityCenter Board of Commissioners led by President Alicia Ghio.
“We are all looking forward to continuing the improvements and growth in CityCenter and make it more attractive for visitors and increase value for our businesses and taxpayers,” Ghio said. “CityCenter has a bright future with Betsy as executive director.”
Paynter has developed business within industry sectors from service to manufacturing, Ghio said. She offers strong experience in relationship building, event planning, grant writing, small business development, creative management and marketing outreach.
Paynter will take over for PJ Prunty, who was CityCenter executive director for two years until taking the helm of the Greater Danbury Chamber of Commerce.
CityCenter sponsors the Downtown Chowdown, weekend concerts and movie nights on the Green, a Farmer’s Market and Taste of Danbury. It publicizes many other events that occur within CityCenter and supports private and municipal efforts to increase retail traffic and other benefits.
CityCenter goals include attracting new business to the downtown district, supporting improvements to the infrastructure on and near Main Street, and encouraging innovative approaches to growth and investment in the district.
Paynter will start her new job on Aug. 1. CityCenter will also sponsor a Downtown Mixer to meet Paynter on Aug. 2 at 5:30 p.m. on the top of the Patriot Garage.