Since 1985, the Virginia Main Street (VMS) program has been helping localities revitalize the economic vitality of downtown commercial districts using the National Main Street Center’s successful Main Street Approach™. Main Street is a comprehensive, incremental approach to revitalization built around a community’s unique heritage and attributes. Using local resources and initiatives, Main Street helps communities develop their own strategies to stimulate long term economic growth and pride in the traditional community center — downtown.
Virginia Main Street communities, like thousands of communities across the country, have used the Main Street Approach effectively to address the complex and changing issues facing the downtown business environment. The Main Street Approach™ provides a flexible framework that puts the traditional assets of downtown, such as unique architecture and locally-owned businesses, to work as a catalyst for economic growth and community pride.
The program was designed to address the need for revitalization and ongoing management of smaller downtowns, but aspects of the Main Street Approach™ may be applied successfully in other commercial settings. Communities beginning their downtown revitalization, and those with more experience, are creating lasting economic impact with the Main Street Approach™.
Contact Information
Jeff Sadler – Program Manager
Brad Belo – Community Revitalization Specialist
Alfred Arzuaga – Community Revitalization Specialist
Joy Rumley – Community Revitalization Specialist
Virginia Main Street
Department of Housing and Community Development
600 E. Main Street, Suite 300
Richmond, VA 23219
804-371-7030
