Oregon Main Street (OMS) is accepting applications from organizations interested in receiving downtown revitalization assistance at its Performing Main Street(R) and Transforming Downtown designation levels. Organizations at these levels receive access to the highest level of services and support available through the OMS Network. The network also includes Exploring Downtown and Affiliate levels of participation. Successful applicants receive assistance to help revitalize the economy, appearance, and image of their traditional business district. Services vary from community to community, but generally include work plan and committee development along with specialized training and networking opportunities. Visit www.oregonheritage.org and click on the main street page for more information on the Tier System, including eligibility and designation criteria for all four levels of assistance. Performing Main Street and Transforming Downtown applications are available by email at sheri.stuart@oregon.gov or by calling 503.986.0679 or by visiting www.oregongeritage.org. Completed applications must be received by March 2, 2018. Oregon Main Street is modeled on the National Main Street Center’s Main Street Approach(R), which has been used in more than 2,000 cities nationwide. It emphasizes four critical areas of downtown revitalization: organization helps everyone work toward the same goals and maximizes involvement of public and private leaders within the community; promotion brings people back downtown by helping to attract visitors, shoppers, and investors; design enhances a district’s appearance and pedestrian amenities while preserving its historic features; and economic vitality stimulates business development and helps strengthen the district’s economic base. Performing Main Street level communities include Albany, Astoria, Corvallis, La Grande, McMinnville, Oregon City, Roseburg, The Dalles, and the Alberta district in Portland. Current Transforming Downtown level communities include Bandon, Beaverton, Canby, Carlton, Coos Bay, Cottage Grove, Dayton, Estacada, Hillsboro, Klamath Falls, Lebanon, Milton-Freewater, Newberg, Pendleton, Port Orford, Sherwood, and Tillamook. Oregon Main Street is part of Heritage Programs in Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
