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August 2006 Main Street Proposal Historic Preservation Commission The National Trust Main Street Center is an initiative of the National Trust for Historic Preservation created in the 1970's. This innovative approach to commercial district revitalization combines historic preservation with economic development to restore viability to downtowns and neighborhood business districts. Main Street employs a comprehensive approach that both rural and urban areas can use to revitalize commercial districts by championing historic preservation and supporting grassroots based economic development. A network of more than 40 statewide, citywide and /or countywide Main Street programs and 1200 active Main Street programs currently span the United States. The Main Street Four- Point Aparoach to Commercial District Revitalization Organization- Main Street assists communities in assembling the appropriate human and financial resources to embark upon a sustainable revitalization effort with clearly delineated goals and direction. Promotion- Main Street promotes a positive image of the commercial district and reinforces the interest in living, working and recreating in a Main Street district. This effective promotional strategy improves consumer and investor confidence in the district and encourages investment and activity. Design- Main Street makes every effort to ensure that the commercial district is in its best form - capitalizing on its best assets from interesting historic structures to pedestrian friendly streets. Design activities also include instilling good maintenance practices, enhancing the physical appearance of existing structures, encouraging appropriate new construction, developing design management systems, and long -term planning. Economic Restructuring- Main Street seeks to bolster the existing economic assets of the district while expanding and diversifying its economic base. Main Street presence enhances the competitiveness of existing business owners and recruits new businesses to further invigorate the commercial district. Main Street's EiQht Principles of Success A comprehensive approach — no single focus can revitalize a commercial district. To ensure long term, sustainable, responsible revitalization, a comprehensive measured approach is essential. - An Incremental approach — successful programs begin with small advances that create a buzz and an interest in the commercial district. Self -help — local leadership is crucial to fostering an atmosphere of community involvement and commitment to the effort.