From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — Communities can learn about a hands-on, proven approach to revitalizing downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts during one of three workshops.
Main Street Alabama, a non-profit organization and state coordinating program of Main Street America, will explain the different tiers of membership, including the application process of becoming a state-designated community and nationally accredited Main Street program in Monroeville on January 11, Birmingham on January 18, and South Huntsville on February 1.
All workshops are 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m., and registration is required through Main Street Alabama’s website, www.mainstreetalabama.org.
Mary Helmer Wirth, President and State Coordinator will describe the assistance Main Street Alabama can offer to position revitalization programs for success by implementing the nationally recognized Main Street Four-Point Approach®. A unique economic development tool, the Main Street Four-Point Approach® is the foundation for local initiatives to revitalize their districts by leveraging their unique assets, from cultural or architectural heritage to local enterprises and community pride.
Attendees will also hear from the local Main Street director on the impact Main Street has on their community.
Designated communities include Alexander City, Anniston, Atmore, Athens, Birmingham, Calera, Columbiana, Decatur, Demopolis, Dothan, Elba, Enterprise, Eufaula, Florence, Foley, Fort Payne, Gadsden, Headland, Heflin, Historic 4th Avenue Business District in Birmingham, LaFayette, Leeds, Marion, Monroeville, Montevallo, Jasper, Opelika, Oxford, Scottsboro, South Huntsville, Talladega, and Wetumpka in using Main StStreet’somprehensive and incremental approach.
Each Designated community listed above reports its success by tracking its reinvestment statistics.
Main Street AlabamAlabama’snated communities have reported 923 net new businesses, 3,162 net new jobs, $681,167,692 in private investment, $99,344,378 in public improvements, and 153,793 volunteer hours in their districts collectively since June of 2014. For more information, contact Mary Helmer Wirth at mary@mainstreetalabama.org or 205- 910-8819.