This article, “Leadership Through Partnerships: The National Trust’s Main Street Program as a Community Economic Development Tool” by John C. Shepard (1992), examines the Main Street Program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The program uses a “grassroots and bootstraps” approach, combining historic preservation with economic development to revitalize historic commercial districts. It has operated in over 600 communities across 31 states. The program’s success hinges on broad community support, good timing, continuity, political adaptability, and a balanced application of its four-point approach:
- Design: Enhancing downtown aesthetics through rehabilitation, sensitive construction, and coordination of signs, lighting, and parking.
- Organization: Unifying development and preservation groups.
- Promotion: Marketing historic downtowns.
- Economic Restructuring: Strengthening and adapting the economic base.
The article highlights the program’s successes and challenges, particularly in the Great Plains region. While states like Iowa and Texas have seen significant success, Colorado’s program faced difficulties due to misunderstandings of its mission, inconsistent funding, and organizational conflicts. The Main Street program has adapted to include urban neighborhoods and smaller towns, with varying approaches and levels of state support.The author concludes that despite common challenges, the program remains a viable model for local leadership, emphasizing that adherence to the four-point approach, coupled with strong community engagement, is crucial for revitalization efforts.
