To further enhance the charm of the railroad corridor and maintain the railroad theme throughout downtown Main Street O'Fallon purchased a caboose. The caboose, built in 1961, will serve as an anchor and focal point for the downtown events and attract others from surrounding regions. Take off the blinders. No single focus can do the job. The revitalization process is complex and requires a simultaneous, comprehensive strategy.
Baby steps come before walking.
Basic, simple activities lead to a more sophisticated understanding of the revitalization process. It helps members of the community develop skill to tackle more complex problems and ambitious projects. Nobody else will save Main Street. Local leaders must have the will and desire to mobilize local resources. That means residents and businesses must understand the rewards for their investment of time and money in Main Street as the heart of their community.