Main Street in Montana. Six Montana Communities Designated for Main Street Revitalization

The National Main Street programs seeks to shore up historic main street locales as part of local communities’ attempts to improve central economic districts. The Montana Department of Commerce has just made formal approval of Main Street applications for the communities of Red Lodge, Polson, Anaconda, Libby, Stevensville and Butte. “They say Montana is one big small town with one heck of a long main street,” Governor Brian Schweitzer said. “Of course time has taken some of the sheen off of historic structures, and that is why this state/local partnership is so important.”

Program Already a Success Nationally.

Research shows downtowns are important to employment, tax base, tourism, increased private investment and resident convenience. The program is based upon research and previous experience by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Commerce Director Tony Preite explained that the communities of Red Lodge, Polson and Anaconda are new to Main Street efforts, whereas Stevensville, Libby and Butte are at the point of seeking “Main Street” certification from the National Trust. “This is a new and exciting thing for Montana, and we are going to use the same approach we always do of listening to what local officials think is the best for their area. These six communities have the opportunity to show all of Montana what is possible.”

Mel Walters, who administers the program, explained the first step is an evaluation of local needs. “I’m as excited as the local communities to get to work, and the first, critical step is to layout a plan that we can follow over the next couple of years. A good blueprint is needed as much as mortar to keep the bricks in place.” For more information on the Main Street program, please contact Mel Walters at (406) 841-2756.

By Andrew Geiger, (406) 841-2772 [email protected]

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Polson named ‘Main Street’

By JOHN STROMNES of the Missoulian

The Polson Community Development Agency has received designation as an official “Main Street in Montana” community, according to director Sue Taylor.

That makes the agency eligible for a portion of $25,000-$30,000 in state technical assistance intended to help revitalize Polson’s downtown business district.

Taylor said she was “pleased and proud” of the award, which has been the nonprofit agency’s main focus since Taylor was hired in January.

Full Story: http://missoulian.com/articles/2006/04/08/news/mtregional/news08.txt