Winning downtown revitalization strategies
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) recognized the best downtown revitalization projects of 2022 at the 32nd Wisconsin Main Street Awards ceremony held Friday at the La Crosse Center in downtown La Crosse. Read More
Signs of the times: New approaches to Main Street signage regulations
Main Street business signage is vitally important not only for businesses but also for establishing the district’s character. Read More
The flexible workplace trend can benefit downtowns
The pandemic forced a lasting transition to hybrid and work-from-home models, dramatically shifting downtowns’ daytime customer base. But communities are discovering that coworking spaces offer an important way for businesses to find and engage daytime workers downtown and keep Main Streets vibrant. Read More
Historic designation: The misunderstood development tool
Having properties officially listed as historic can afford local, state, and federal protections and incentives for their maintenance, repair, renovation, or restoration. Read More
A Guide for Planning a Successful Event
Determining what your event will be is just the beginning. There are many other factors to consider, such as the image you want to create for your event, how to publicize it, and how to gauge its impact. Read More
Adaptive reuse projects over the years
As we wrap up our 35th year of the Wisconsin Main Street Program, we felt inspired to look back on some of the downtown redevelopment successes from that time period. Read More
Transforming problem properties into economic opportunity
First impressions are important, and the face of your downtown has a huge impact on perceptions. If a district looks well cared for and active, people see it as vibrant and prosperous, encouraging customers to shop and businesses to invest. Read More
The eyes have it: Grab more exposure with a polished website
Your organization’s website is like a front door. Make it inviting and easy to use, and people will come inside and look around. Neglect it and, chances are, they’ll cruise along to the next place. Read More
Building codes on Main Street
Historic buildings may need to meet building codes similar to those required in new construction when a change of occupancy occurs, or when substantial renovations are planned. Read More
Welcome more visitors downtown at night
Providing a safe and comfortable place to walk increases the likelihood that downtown residents and visitors will explore more of the district and patronize new businesses. Read More
Tips and trends power community farmers market success
Farmers markets are a popular way to bring people together to buy fresh produce and explore everything downtown has to offer. They also support local entrepreneurship that contributes to a downtown’s future business success. Read More
The State of Historic Preservation Today
Today across Wisconsin, we see tiny rural villages, small quaint towns, and larger cities all with thriving downtowns. Even the smallest of our communities have murals, public art, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, breweries, wineries, boutiques, B&Bs and more. Read More