Main Street:
More than just Main Street
What is
Main Street?
The Texas Historical Commission (THC) designated Hamilton as an official Texas Main Street community in 2020. The Texas Main Street program is part of the Community Heritage Development Division of the THC and focuses on the Four Point Approach of organization, economic development, design, and promotion with community involvement and volunteer support. Hamilton Historic Main Street is among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities that share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.
Working Together for a Thriving Downtown
Hamilton Historic Main Street falls under the Economic Development Corporation and is supported by a working advisory board and a team of volunteers. We work closely with business and property owners, governments, residents and volunteers to focus on projects that encourage the ongoing revitalization of downtown Hamilton.
To learn more, take a look at the Hamilton Historic Main Street Brochure
Our Vision
The Hamilton Historic Main Street Program preserves and enhances Hamilton’s history and historic architecture to be an inviting destination for small businesses, residents, and tourists to eat, play, shop, and explore.
Mission
We will utilize the Main Street principles of Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Vitality to preserve Hamilton's small-town charm, promote our businesses and attractions, and encourage small business growth in our community.
Four Point Approach in Action
Please see each section below for an explanation of how our advisory board has tackled each approach this year and current successes. All community members are welcome to join in our open meetings. We have many opportunities for members of the community to volunteer in the many projects and activities that we lead.
If you’re interested in getting involved, please email the Main Street Manager at mainstreet@hamiltontx.com or call 254-784-5610.
Design
The focus is to help preserve and enhance the physical elements within our Main Street District.
Some of our successful projects this year have included completing an inventory of all properties within the Main Street District and creating a Hamilton webpage within DowntownTX.org, a Texas Main Street website. Recently, we have added 6 new light poles and banners to Bell and Henry Street and repotted the flower pots with vibrant flowers for the Summer time. We have also been working with local property owners and Texas Main Street on planning, building rehabilitation, and beautification projects.
Property owners in the district can benefit from the Texas Main Street Design Assistance. To participate, please complete the attached form and send to the Main Street Manager to receive recommendations for your building's rehabilitation, where you can learn the history and unique architectural details of your building that can be showcased to suit your budget.
Organization
The focus is to help network with other organizations and grow our community volunteer base, as we establish community priorities.
Some of our successful projects this year have included monthly newsletter, nominating a new board member, and networking to community organizations and explain the purpose of Main Street.
Economic Vitality
The focus is to work with Hamilton EDC and identified new market opportunities for the district, redefine our district niche, and sharpen the competitiveness of our existing businesses while nurturing new enterprises. For example, please see our list of strategy ideas and social media tips that business owners may find helpful in strengthening their sustainability.
Some of our successful projects this year have included exploring business catalyst opportunities for the EDC building, applying for many grants to upgrade the Pecan Creek park, and assisting with the Imagine the Possibilities tour to attract new businesses.
Promotion
The focus is to help preserve our past while looking to the future, gathering information on our strengths and marketing them.
Some of our successful projects this year have included working on the Main Street Brochure (shown above) and the Imagine the Possibilities virtual tour.
Meet the Main Street Staff &
Board of Directors
Economic Development Corporation & Main Street Program Staff
Executive Director – Economic Development Corporation & Main Street Program
Debbie Grieve
dgrieve@hamiltontx.com | 254.386.5954
Administrative Assistant – Economic Development Corporation & Main Street Program
Bonnie Harle
Economic Development Corporation & Main Street Program Staff
Main Street Board President
Mary Owen
Main Street Board Vice President
Ashley Haile
Main Street Board Secretary
Elizabeth Graves
Main Street Board Director
Courtney Amaro
Main Street Board Director
Michelle Frasier
Main Street Board Director
Alicia Saldana-Stephens
Main Street Board Director
Pris Woodrich
Main Street District Newsletter
Hamilton Main Street's Organization Committee is excited to offer a quarterly newsletter with information about events, new businesses, and happenings in the Main Street District. Email mainstreet@hamiltontx.com to subscribe to the monthly e-newsletter or stop by our office to pick up a physical copy.
