Lawmakers have a chance to put some much-needed money into a program to
revitalize Maine's downtowns. They should approve the modest budget
request - $300,000 - to expand the Maine Downtown Center's Main Street
program. Better still, legislators should look for ways to permanently
fund this program, which ties in with so many other state efforts, such
as promotion of the creative economy, curbs on sprawl and job creation.
Five
years ago, lawmakers launched the program, based on a successful
national program run by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Soon after the project began here, the legislative funding dried up.
The program was kept going by private donation and contributions from a
variety of state agencies. It is time to increase the funding so the
program is more stable and can help more communities. A bill sponsored
by House Speaker John Richardson would do this.
The
program works with communities for three years to revitalize their core
business districts to spur economic development, preserve unique
architecture and build a sense of community. Six communities - Bath,
Eastport, Gardiner, Norway, Saco and Waterville - have been in the
program for three years. Van Buren and Skowhegan were recently added.
Rather
than build pedestrian malls and install lampposts, the Main Street
program helps communities develop their own revitalization plan built
on local needs and assets. Efforts in Eastport have centered on
expanding the town's creative economy. Gardiner has focused on
rebuilding its waterfront.
Brenda
Libby, the president of the Saco Chamber of Commerce, credits the
program with helping that town focus its efforts so it could tackle
projects that seemed too large and difficult to accomplish. The program
also renewed pride in Saco, she said.
Criteria
to participate in the program are fairly strict to ensure an on-going
commitment. For example, towns must commit to hiring a "downtown
manager" who will oversee the program for its duration. Seven towns
have already expressed interest in participating in the next round, if
the funding is approved by the Legislature.
The
state's small financial commitment pays big dividends. The six towns
that have gone through the program have secured more than $20 million
in federal and private investments. More than 70 new businesses and 400
jobs were created in these communities. These communities can now serve
as role models for other towns.
Revitalizing downtowns is a slow process, but the Maine Street program is working well and deserves money to continue its work.
