Montana Main Street Program
The Eight Principles
While the Main Street approach provides the format for successful revitalization, implementation of the four-point approach is based on eight principles that pertain to all areas of the revitalization effort:
Comprehensive process - Community business district revitalization is a complex process and cannot be accomplished through a single project. For successful long-term revitalization, a comprehensive approach must be used.
Incremental in nature - Small projects and simple activities lead to a more sophisticated understanding of the revitalization process and help to develop skills so that more complex problems can be addressed and more ambitious projects undertaken.
Community empowerment - Local leaders must have the desire and the will to make the project successful. The National Main Street Center and the Montana Main Street program will provide direction, ideas and training, but continued and long-term success depends upon the involvement and commitment of the community.
Public/private partnerships - Both the public and private sectors have a vital interest in the economic health and physical viability of traditional commercial districts. Each sector has a role to play, and each must understand the other's strengths and limitations so that an effective partnership can be forged.
Identifying and capitalizing on existing assets - Business districts must capitalize on the assets that make them unique. Every district has unique qualities like distinctive buildings and human scale that give people a sense of belonging. These local assets must serve as the foundation for all aspects of the revitalization program.
Quality - Quality must be emphasized in every aspect of the revitalization program. This applies equally to each element of the program, from storefront design to promotional campaigns to educational programs.
Change - Changes in attitude and practice are necessary to improve current economic conditions. Public support for change will build as the program grows.
Implementation-oriented - Activity creates confidence in the program and ever-greater levels of participation. Frequent, visible changes are a reminder that the revitalization effort is under way. Small projects at the beginning of the program pave the way for larger activities as the revitalization effort matures.
