A return to ‘Main Street’ in Stillwater County, Montana with help from MEDA

Georgette Scheafer remembers when Absarokee boasted five gas stations, three grocery stores and two hardware stores.

Fifty years later, the Absarokee woman and two of her friends have opened a quilt store in a town riddled with empty storefronts – and there’s not one gas station left.

Absarokee’s story echoes the demise of main streets across the nation. Yet there are indications – new businesses taking life in vacant storefronts – the tide may be turning.

"It seems a lot more promising at the moment," said Nick Morrison, president of the Greater Stillwater County Chamber of Commerce. "There’s always been a real strong community spirit, an effort to fill some of those holes down there. I think it’s encouraging what has gone on there in the last few months, with new shops taking a chance."

By LINDA HALSTEAD-ACHARYA
Of The Gazette Staff

Full Story: http://www.billingsgazette.com/index.php?id=1&display=rednews/2005/10/20/build/state/20-main-street.inc

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The Montana Economic Developers’ Association (MEDA): http://www.medamembers.org