| |
This state-run program is the only one of its kind in Illinois geared towards
preservation-based downtown economic development. It was established in 1993 to
assist local communities with historic Main Street improvement efforts. Over its
lifetime, the nearly 70 participating communities, from Carbondale to Rockford
and Danville to Quincy, have benefitted from architectural services and
training. The program has generated more than $400 million in downtown
reinvestment and created over 4,800 jobs. Recent state budget cuts have
eliminated all technical assistance services and the annual statewide
conference, while greatly reducing the number of staff. The National Main Street
Center in Washington, D.C., which provides unified marketing and development
strategies to downtown Main Street programs, has placed the Illinois program on
suspension until it can meet national standards.
Click A Thumbnail To Start Photo Slideshow
Press
Partnership looks forward to revamped Main Street program
St. Charles Republican, July 30, 2010
|
|
