Main Street Searcy

Main Street Searcy is a non-profit program that encourages development, historic preservation, community education, and revitalization of the downtown commercial area. The program also promotes and assists in city beautification projects and educates the public on the advantages of street planning. The results of these intertwining activities bring about an improved quality of life for the entire community. There are four charitable purposes served by Main Street Searcy’s activities:

a) Public education – Educational programs presented to civic groups, school groups, and the general public encourage the success of Main Street. Tours of historical districts are to be given and educational programs on the history of Searcy are presented. The culture and heritage of the Main Street District is being expressed through Main Street activities, publications, and programs.

b) Lessening the burdens of government – Main Street Searcy works with governmental programs to assist in street design, infrastructure improvements, and the utilization of public facilities.

c) Combating community deterioration – The development of rehabilitation efforts and education will enable business owners to occupy and improve physical structures, thus preventing further deterioration of properties.

d) Historic preservation – Searcy has several buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The program seeks to maintain and educate the public on the prestigious history in the area.

Over the past several years, downtown business districts have suffered due to urban sprawl and new commercial development. The Main Street Searcy program strives to assist the downtown district in attracting new businesses, preventing the financial loss of current businesses, and gaining community support through education and promotion. Main Street Searcy follows four guiding principles:

a) Design – Design enhances the physical appearance of the commercial district by rehabilitating historic buildings, encouraging new construction, developing sensitive design management, and long-term planning.

b) Organization – Organization builds consensus and cooperation among the many groups and individuals who have a role in the revitalization process.

c) Promotion – Promotion markets the traditional commercial district’s assets to customers, potential investors, new businesses, local citizens, and visitors.

d) Economic restructuring – Economic restructuring strengthens the district’s existing economic base while finding ways to expand to meet new opportunities and challenges from outlying development.