Successful Main Street
Successful Main Street efforts follow eight guiding principles:
Comprehensive
To avoid repeating the failures of the past, revitalization must address all of
the district's problems and opportunities in a unified way. No single focus -
such as lavish public improvements, "name-brand" business recruitment, or
endless promotional events, can do the job. Comprehensive activity in each
of the areas of the Four Point Approach leads to success.
Incremental
There is no quick fix for Main Street. Problems did not develop overnight
and they will not be solved overnight. Success at planning and implementing
basic, simple activities leads to a deeper understanding of the revitalization
process, and these skills allow the community to tackle more complex
problems and ambitious projects.
Self-Help
In Colorado, as across the country, local initiative and resources are what
power Main Street success. The assistance provided to communities through
the CCRA Main Street program is valuable. However, long-term local
commitment is what must sustain revitalization. This means convincing
residents and business owners of the rewards for their investment of time
and money in Main Street, as the heart of their community.
Partnerships
The public and private sectors have vital interests in the future of
downtown. Each has valuable skills, perspectives and programs to bring to
revitalization. Partnerships are essential. Partners contribute time, money
and expertise.
Assets
Main Street must capitalize on the unique assets it already has, such as
distinctive buildings, neighborly shop owners, good service, and a human
scale.
Quality
Downtown was built on the cornerstone of quality. A high standard of
quality must be set for every aspect of the commercial district: from window
displays to marketing brochures, from public improvements to storefront
renovations.
Change
To many communities, downtown has become irrelevant. Changes in
perception and attitudes about the district are slow but are as important as
visible changes.
Implementation
Make a difference TODAY! Most communities have enough plans collecting
dust on their shelves to last a century. Frequent, visible change is key to
moving revitalization forward. Main Street's focus is to simultaneously plan
for the future while creating visible change and activity NOW.
PO Box 973 Lake City, CO 81235
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