HISTORY OF MAIN STREET
In 1977 the National Trust for Historic Preservation undertook a pilot project in 3 small Midwestern downtowns for the development of a comprehensive approach for downtown revitalization. The foundation of the Main Street approach to downtown revitalization is preservation, using those elements of quality that have survived as assets upon which we can build lasting, positiv
e physical and emotional image for everyone who uses downtown. Historic Preservation is used as an economic development tool. It capitalizes on overlooked and underutilized assets, encourages imagination, and sharpens entrepreneurial skills and strong participation by the private sector. These four elements necessary for building the total image of a vital downtown are key to Main Street success:
Organization is the building of consensus and cooperation between the groups that play a role in downtown. Many individuals and organizations in the community have a stake in economic viability of downtown. Design involves improving downtown’s image by enriching its physical appearance- not just the appearance of buildings, but also of street lights, window displays, parking areas, signs, sidewalks, streetscapes, promotional materials and all other elements that convey a visual message about what downtown is and what it has to offer. Promotion involves marketing downtown’s unique characteristic to shoppers, investors, new businesses, tourists and others. Effective promotion creates a positive image of downtown through retail promotional activity and special events that use downtown as a stage area for community activities. Business Enhancement means strengthening the existing economic base of downtown, while diversifying it. Economic Restructuring activities include helping existing downtown businesses expand, recruiting new businesses, providing a balanced mix, converting unused space into productive property, and sharpening the competitiveness of downtown merchants. This four point methodology works to create a total image for the community: providing the retail/ professional area with its marketing niche, creating a cohesive identity unique to the community, and nurturing a cultural ambiance associated with the community’s location, appearance, and way of life. REASONS TO BE INVOLVED WITH DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
Downtown was historically the cultural, educational, commercial, recreational and governmental center of our community. Residents expect these amenities to exist in your community to enhance their quality of life. Downtown can continue to be this quality of life center, if given the opportunity. It is the faced you project to visitors, investors and to yourselves. The reputation of your community is based on the condition of your own downtown. Big towns, small towns, all towns started downtown. It is the heart and soul of your community.
