What Is Main Street?
BECOME A MEMBER OF DENTON MAIN STREET ASSOCIATION
The Main Street Program is a worldwide program to revitalize downtown
areas. The Denton Main Street Program began in 1989 and since there have
been marked physical and financial improvements in the area. Over $36.5
million have been reinvested in the area since 1989.
The Denton Main Street Association (DMSA) is a 501(c) 6 non-profit organization.
While the City of Denton’s Downtown Development Department works in cooperation
with the Denton Main Street Association, all promotion, advertising and
events for downtown are funded by sponsorships and memberships in the
DMSA from the private sector. Downtown management in Denton is truly a
public-private partnership.
The Denton Main Street Association Board of Directors depends on volunteers
and members to make it all happen.
Mission Statement:
The Denton Main Street Program through the combined efforts of public/private
partnerships will preserve and market the downtown area as a community
treasure, focusing on historic preservation, continuing reinvestment and
developing heritage tourism.
Vision Statement:
To maintain Denton’s downtown area as the focus of the community where
history is preserved, businesses thrive, and citizens and visitors dine,
shop, live, and enjoy the arts and entertainment.
History of Main Street Denton
The first Courthouse restoration was completed in time for the Texas
Sesquicentennial in 1986. The overwhelmingly positive response to the
Courthouse renovation confirmed to the merchants that there was a need
for an organized downtown revitalization program. The merchants and community
leaders attended conferences on downtown revitalization, visited other
communities, talked to professionals and lobbied their City Council members.
In October of 1989, the City of Denton funded the Main Street Program
and appointed the Downtown Development Advisory Board to oversee its progress.
That year, the Texas legislature allocated funding for an Urban Main
Street Program, making it possible for cities with populations of more
than 50,000 to participate in the state program. Denton applied, was selected,
and began its association with the Texas Main Street Program in January
1990. Since then, the Central Business District has officially become
the Main Street Association. Membership has increased over 400% and shows
incredible broad-based community support. The Main Street Program has
high visibility and its mission is recognized and understood by most of
the community.
Public and private sector commitment to the downtown revitalization
process continues to increase.
Where Is Main Street?
The boundaries of the Main Street district are from north to south both
sides of Locust and Elm from University to Eagle. The western boundary
is Carroll Boulevard and includes the area between Congress and Sycamore.
The eastern boundary is Bell Avenue and includes the area between Withers
and Oak (the Civic Center Complex). The southern boundary is the railroad
tracks and includes all the area west and to the south of Eagle.