Cristie Thomas has joined the Gloucester Main Street Preservation Trust as its Executive Director. Thomas brings years of experience to her new position, having held the same position in Marietta, Ohio.

Originally from Long Island, N.Y., Thomas has spent more than a decade living and working in the small town of Marietta. She, her husband Brad and their children Levon and Avett packed up and moved to Gloucester following the holidays.

“We closed our eyes and jumped,” said Thomas regarding the start of what her family has been referring to as their “Virginia Adventure.”

Thomas said she applied for the job in Gloucester because she wanted to bring her passions and knowledge into a new environment and challenge. Her time in Marietta gave her a level of expertise and comfort for working in a small town like Gloucester.

With the Main Street Trust, Thomas said she will put emphasis on business, building historical preservation and economic development. She is putting her focus o...