Minnesota Main Street Program

Partners: Preservation Alliance of Minnesota (primary), Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, University of Minnesota Extension Center for Community Vitality, University of Minnesota Tourism Center, Minnesota Design Team

The Minnesota Main Street Program is a proven, comprehensive strategy that helps communities create new jobs and businesses while preserving their historic downtowns. The Minnesota Historical Society's State Historic Preservation Office is working with the partners listed above to implement Minnesota Main Street, which provides the tools, training, information and networking communities need to revitalize their business districts. There are currently four Minnesota Main Street Designated Communities: Faribault, New Ulm, Red Wing and Willmar. In the first three quarters of 2012, these cities gained 64 full-time jobs and 15 new businesses in their communities. Volunteers contributed more than 5,200 hours. These cities also saw 25 building rehabilitation projects completed, valued at over $700,000. In addition, there are more than 20 Associate Member communities that receive access to networking opportunities and discounted admissions to trainings.