As executive director of JP Centre/South Main Streets, Ginger Brown dedicates herself to nurturing Jamaica Plain’s unique identity and community spirit. Her organization tackles everything from supporting small businesses to organizing community-centered events like holiday light shows and the JP Canine Costume Parade. Under Brown’s leadership, the group brings together residents, local businesses and city officials to cultivate resilient, close-knit neighborhood. 

The Scope spoke with Ginger about how JP Centre/South Main Streets works to maintain  Jamaica Plain’s vibrant identity by balancing the challenges of gentrification and fostering a deep sense of community. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

What makes Jamaica Plain a special neighborhood?

Jamaica Plain has a history of being very progressive and forward-thinking. The community is passionate about what they believe in, and they’ve fought against changes that could harm the neighborhood. For instance, in the 1970s, there was a plan to build a highway through the area, but the residents banded together and succeeded in rerouting it. This spirit of resilience is still very much alive today.

How has the community changed over time?

Sadly, we’ve seen a lot of gentrification, which has displaced some of the older residents and businesses. People love the neighborhood and want to move here, but the rising property prices have pushed out some of the legacy businesses and long-term residents. It’s a balance we’re trying to manage — welcoming new people while preserving what made Jamaica Plain great in the first place.

What are some of the projects JP Centre/South Main Streets is currently working on?

We’re excited about a beautification project on South Street, particularly in the area around the Boston Housing Authority’s South Street Apartments. Initially, we planned to add benches and planters, but after conducting a survey with the community — especially the youth — we found that they wanted spaces that foster connection and safety. So now, we’re incorporating elements like better lighting, a redesigned plaza and a basketball hoop for kids.

We also have the JP Canine Costume Parade, which is now in its 20th year. It’s a fun event where dogs walk down Center Street in costumes, and thousands of people come to watch. Another major event is our Holiday Light Show — a laser show projected onto a church steeple, which we’ve turned into a new holiday tradition.

What keeps you passionate about your work after all these years?

It’s the relationships I’ve built. I love being able to connect with people and businesses in the community. During the pandemic, we had businesses reaching out to us for support, and it felt great to see how the relationships we had built helped them survive. It’s not just a job; it’s like working with friends every day.

Are there any local spots you’d recommend for visitors to Jamaica Plain?

Definitely! The Blue Frog Bakery, which is my husband’s bakery, has the best croissants. There’s also Boing! Toy Shop, which curates educational, fun toys, and Salmagundi, a hat shop that attracts people from around the world. We also have the Byte Shop, which is both a computer museum and repair shop — a must-visit for tech enthusiasts.

What’s something you wish more people knew about the work you do?

I wish people knew that working with the city and other government entities takes time. We rely on the city for funding and various improvements, but these things don’t happen overnight. It’s a long process, and patience is key.