Each year, the Department of Commerce selects communities to join the program. These communities receive technical support and training needed to restore their Main Streets to centers of community activity and commerce. The results in Wisconsin have been impressive. Wisconsin Main Street Programs have brought significant numbers of new businesses and jobs to their respective downtowns. Facade improvements and building rehabilitation projects have upgraded the image of Main Street.
Promotional activities bring the community together in a positive way.
In 1980, the National Trust for Historic Preservation established the National Main Street Center to assist nationwide downtown revitalization efforts. The Wisconsin Main Street Program is based on the Trust's philosophy, which advocates restoration of the historic character of downtown while pursuing traditional development strategies such as marketing, business recruitment and retention, real estate development, market analysis, and public improvements. There are no quick fixes for declining downtowns, but success can be realized through the comprehensive and incremental approach of the Main Street Program. Everyone must work together to renew downtown. A strong organization provides the stability to build and maintain a long-term effort.