Four-Point Approach

The Main Street® approach is a community-driven, comprehensive method used to revitalize older, traditional business districts. Main Street® programs advocate a return to community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of traditional commercial districts based on their unique assets: distinctive architecture, a pedestrian-friendly environment, personal service, local ownership, and a sense of community.

Key to the Main Street® approach are four points:

ORGANIZATION involves building a framework that is represented by business and property owners, bankers, citizens, business associations, and public officials. Everyone works together to see revitalization occur.

PROMOTION creates excitement for the district. Street festivals, parades, retail events, and identity development are ways to encourage new customer traffic. Promotion involves marketing an enticing image to investors, shoppers, and visitors.

DESIGN enhances the attractiveness of the business district. Historic building rehabilitation, new development, street clean-up, banners, landscaping and lighting all improve the physical setting of a business district as a quality place to shop, work, walk and invest in.

ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING involves analyzing market forces to develop long-term solutions to revitalization. New businesses, creative use of space, and sharpened competitiveness are outcomes of a more vital business district.

In addition to the four points, Portland Main Street® highlights SUSTAINABILITY as a core value through the support of local businesses and environmental stewardship.