Together they provide design and preservation technical assistance to participating communities. In 1985, Virginia established a statewide Main Street program based on a downtown revitalization concept developed by the National Main Street Center. Main Street is a comprehensive approach to regenerating the economic vitality of downtown commercial districts, built around a community's unique heritage and attributes. The program features a comprehensive strategy that includes the following four elements. Promotion creates and markets a positive image of downtown to attract customers and investors by developing special events, festivals, and retail sales promotions.
Promotion also includes a public relations strategy, and attractive graphic and media presentations.
Organization establishes consensus and cooperation by building long-term partnerships among merchants, property owners, local officials, and community residents. Historic Manassas, Inc. was formed to promote a positive image of downtown Manassas and to perpetuate its revitalization. To reach these goals, the organization proudly plays a leadership role in community issues. HMI also acts as a clearinghouse for valuable information and services that retailers and property owners can use to improve their businesses and buildings. HMI promotes Old Town Manassas by sponsoring special events throughout the year to bring local residents and visitors downtown, and to reinforce the identity of the historic area.