Announcing the 2026 Downtown First Award recipients

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 The Rock Springs Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency (URA) proudly announced the winners of the 2026 Downtown First Awards during a special celebration held Wednesday evening, May 6. With a record-breaking number of nominations this year, the event brought together business owners, volunteers, artists, and community members to recognize the people and places shaping the continued success of Downtown Rock Springs.

“These awards are about more than recognition—they’re about celebrating the pride, investment, and energy that make Downtown Rock Springs a vibrant place to live, work, and visit,” said Maria Mortensen, Rock Springs Main Street/URA board chairwoman.  “This year’s winners truly reflect the spirit of our community.”

2026 Downtown First Award Winners:

• Outstanding Downtown Business – 1st Bank (601 N Front Street)
  A literal cornerstone of Downtown, 1st Bank continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to customer service, community involvement, and reinvestment in the district, helping support both residents and local businesses.
  
  
• Spirit of Downtown Award – Square State Brewing (422 S Main Street)
  Square State Brewing embodies the energy of Downtown, serving as a true “third place” for the community—a welcoming space beyond home and work where people gather, connect, and build relationships. Through events, partnerships, and consistent support of local initiatives, they have become a hub for community life.
  
  
• Outstanding New Business/Merchant – Brush Crazy (617 Broadway Street)
  Since opening in 2025, Brush Crazy has brought creativity and new energy to Downtown, offering hands-on art experiences that attract visitors of all ages. Their commitment to extended hours—including being open on Sundays—has further contributed to the vibrancy of Downtown, giving residents and visitors more opportunities to engage, explore, and spend time in the district.
  
  
• Better Rock Springs Beautification Award – Crazy Chicks Embroidery & Laser Engraving & Jim Wilson (748 Pilot Butte Ave)
  By taking a long-vacant building and completely transforming it—both inside and out—Crazy Chicks and Jim Wilson have made a significant impact on Downtown. Their investment has not only revitalized a once-underutilized space but has also elevated the look and feel of the entire block, contributing to a more vibrant and welcoming streetscape.
  
  
• Outstanding Individual – Nick & Steven Costantino
  Nick and Steven Costantino go above and beyond in their roles, consistently enhancing the Downtown experience through their leadership, customer service, and commitment to community. They are ongoing volunteers and often our go-to when help is needed, always stepping up to support Downtown efforts. In addition, they host and produce a variety of events, including the Pride Festival and Drag for a Cause, which has raised thousands of dollars for local charities, further demonstrating their impact on the community.
  
  
• Outstanding Volunteer – David and Holly Mendoza
  Newer residents to Rock Springs, David and Holy Mendoza have fully embraced all that the community has to offer. They are familiar faces at Downtown events, regularly volunteering not only at the Broadway Theater but across a variety of Downtown activities, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and a true spirit of service.

Mayor’s Arts Awards:

• Kayla Ann Fitzgerald – Authentic by Fitz
  Kayla’s work through Authentic by Fitz highlights creativity and entrepreneurship, adding to the artistic fabric and unique character of Downtown.
  
  
• Kristen Taylor – Moments by Taylor
  Kristen captures and celebrates life’s moments through her work, contributing to the storytelling and visual identity of the community.
  
  
• Kenny McCormick – The Starling Company
  Through The Starling Company, Kenny McCormick has produced unique and engaging events and productions not only in Rock Springs, but across Wyoming and beyond. His work continues to elevate the arts locally, and his involvement in a new documentary set to be featured at the Tribeca Film Festival this summer further highlights his commitment to advancing and showcasing the arts.

Historic Preservation Awards:

• Cultural Heritage Award – Mary Hamilton
  Mary Hamilton is recognized for her tireless dedication to preserving the SCM Church, ensuring an important piece of local history remains part of the community’s story.
  
  
• Private Residence Award – Misfit Industries LLC & Birch Dune – 610 A Street
  Recognized for the restoration of a long-vacant home at 610 A Street, Misfit Industries and Birch Dune have completed an incredible transformation. Their work has brought new life to the property while preserving its historic character, resulting in a truly remarkable restoration that stands out as an example of what’s possible in Downtown.
  
  
• Nonresidential Award – Bi-Rite / Sweet Sage (John and Mark Piaia)
  John and Mark Piaia are recognized for their ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing their Downtown property, demonstrating how historic spaces can continue to thrive.

The Downtown First Awards, along with the Mayor’s Arts Awards and the inaugural Historic Preservation Awards, highlight the collective effort that continues to move Downtown Rock Springs forward.