GENERAL PRINCIPLES

In its most basic form, a successful Main Street program should have the following characteristics.

Holiday lights in Downtown Russellville.

1. Widespread community support
2. Broad-based community representation in an advisory capacity
3. A distinct constituency
4. A clear, shared sense of mission and a well-defined set of goals and objectives
5. Committed, dependable funding
6. Working committees
7. Full-time management
8. A well-thought-out work plan based on the four points of the Main Street Approach: design, organization, promotion and economic restructuring
9. A commitment to work, and succeed, over time
10. Strong public-private partnerships

These 10 principles should guide the development of the local Main Street program and measure its organizational success.

Main Street Is A Self-Help Program

Although Main Street Arkansas offers guidelines and direction for local revitalization efforts, implementation of a successful local program rests squarely on the community and the downtown organization supporting the program. Besides a philosophical commitment to the Main Street approach, a strong financial commitment must be made by townspeople to establish their local program.

The Main Street process is incremental. Revitalizing a downtown doesn't happen overnight just as the downtown didn't deteriorate overnight. Downtown revitalization is a long-term, on-going effort requiring continuing dedication. Just like a lasting relationship, just like a successful business, a strong downtown needs constant attention.