[OMS_MANAGERS] "Transforming Downtown" level application now available

[Cara Kaser]

Oregon Main Street Now Accepting Applications into the "Transforming
Downtown" level of the Oregon Main Street Network

Oregon Main Street is now accepting applications from organizations
interested in receiving downtown revitalization assistance at its
Transforming Downtown designation level. Transforming Downtown is for
communities who are committed to downtown revitalization using the Main
Street Approach® but need technical assistance to take them to the next
level. The Oregon Main Street Network also includes "Performing Main
Street," "Exploring Downtown," and "Affiliate" levels of participation.
Currently, there are 81 communities participating in the Network.

Successful applicants receive assistance to help revitalize the
economy, appearance, and image of their historic downtown or
neighborhood commercial district. Services vary from community to
community, but generally include work plan and committee development
along with specialized training and networking opportunities. 

Transforming Downtown level applications are available on our website,
www.oregonheritage.org, or by calling Sheri Stuart at 503.986.0679 or
email at sheri.stuart at state.or.us.

Visit www.oregonheritage.org for more information on the Oregon Main
Street Network, including eligibility and designation criteria for all
four levels of assistance. Transforming Downtown level applications must
be received by December 5, 2012.  

The effort is modeled on the National Trust for Historic Preservation's
Main Street Approach®, which has been used in more than 2,000 cities
nationwide to recapture business interest and vitality in downtown
areas.  This approach emphasizes four critical areas of downtown
revitalization: organization helps everyone work towards the same goals
and maximizes involvement of public and private leaders within the
community; promotion brings people back downtown by helping to attract
visitors, shoppers, and investors; design enhances a districts
appearance and pedestrian amenities while preserving its historic
features; and economic restructuring stimulates business development and
helps strengthen the districts economic base.

Oregon Main Street services are part of Oregon Heritage, Oregon Parks
and Recreation Department.

Sheri Stuart, Coordinator
Oregon Main Street
725 Summer St NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301
503.986.0679
www.oregonheritage.org 

Oregon Main Street is administered by the State Historic Preservation
Office, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.