Principles of Main Street
The National Trust
Main Street Center's experience in helping communities bring their commercial
corridors back to life has shown time and time again that the Main Street Four-Point Approach succeeds. That success is guided by the following eight principles which set the Main Street methodology apart from other redevelopment strategies:
1. Comprehensive: A single project cannot revitalize a downtown. An ongoing series of initiatives is vital to build community support and create lasting progress.
2.
Incremental: Small projects make a big difference. They demonstrate that “things are happening” on Main Street and hone the skills and confidence the program will need to tackle more complex problems.
3. Self-help: Although Oregon Main Street can provide valuable
direction and technical assistance, only local leadership can initiate long-term
success through community involvement and commitment to the revitalization
effort.
4. Public/private partnership: Successful downtown revitalization organizations must have the support and expertise of both the public and private sectors.
5.
Identifying and capitalizing on existing assets: local assets provide the solid foundation for a successful, unique downtown revitalization initiative.
6. Quality: From storefront
design and promotional campaigns to special events, quality must be the main
goal.
7. Change: Changing community attitudes and habits is essential. A carefully planned downtown program will help shift public perceptions and practices to support and sustain the revitalization process.
8. Action-oriented: Successful
downtown revitalization programs are pro-active. They plan for the future.