What Wisconsin can learn from Seattle
Although Seattle’s population far surpasses that of most Wisconsin Main Street communities, its neighborhoods and surrounding communities demonstrate the wide variety of strategies communities can employ to make their place stand apart as a destination for locals or visitors. Read More
National conference has strong Wisconsin contingent
Main Street Now, the national downtown development conference hosted annually by the National Main Street Center, was held this year in Seattle. More than 20 Wisconsin Main Street network individuals attended the conference as both participants and presenters. Read More
Wausau River District becomes Wisconsin’s sixth Great American Main Street
Wausau River District is one of three winners of the 2019 Great American Main Street Award, which recognizes communities for their excellence in comprehensive preservation-based commercial district revitalization. Read More
Fostering interaction and engagement
While infrastructure and amenities can be designed to foster spontaneous interactions, programs can also be designed to actively promote engagement and interaction among like-minded individuals. Read More
Infrastructure and amenities for all ages
Downtowns offer unique architecture and affordable spaces that are well suited to all types of uses, but properties that have not been well-maintained or recently renovated require both inspiration and capital to translate existing spaces into move-in-ready apartments and retail storefronts. Read More
Demographic trends and downtowns
While statewide trends in Wisconsin point toward increased growth predominantly in the upper age brackets, both baby boomer and millennial/Gen Z groups show a preference for downtown. Read More
How businesses can use whimsy to creatively market themselves
See interesting ways that individual businesses can use whimsy to creatively market themselves while enhancing the entire district. Read More
Embracing public art on Main Street
Public art is a great way to inject a bit of quirkiness into your Main Street community. Read More
The case for quirky on Main Street
Main Street districts across America are learning that whimsical and offbeat installations like art, signage, alleys, seating and more that can fit well in historic surroundings. Read More
Making (and measuring) an impact
Although not a quick fix, investment in downtown revitalization pays off. The average Main Street district, despite representing only 2 percent of municipal land area, generates 6 percent of property tax revenue and supports 14 percent of retail spending, 21 percent of restaurant spending and 27 percent of hospitality room nights. Read More
Getting started with Main Street
What it means to be a Wisconsin Main Street community. Read More
Local impact, infinite reach
As we wrap up the 30th anniversary year of the Wisconsin Main Street program, we reflect on the extensive network of people and places that have encountered the program over the past three decades. Read More