During the Monday celebration of MainStreet Cleveland held at the Elks Lodge, members viewed a powerpoint presentation of changes throughout the years and programs such as the annual Downtown Halloween Block Party, the Apple Festival and other events like MainStreet’s Cruise-In.
“Downtown revitalization is a long process,” said Executive Director Sharon Marr.
The guest speaker, Kim Nyberg, program manager for the Community Development Division and Tennessee MainStreet, was unable to attend due to a sudden illness; however, officials read a letter stating her position on the 20th anniversary of MainStreet Cleveland.
“Congratulations! This day is truly a celebration — a celebration of your community’s dedication to downtown — your belief that downtown does matter and that downtown is as important today as it was when your community began.
“Main Street Cleveland has done an outstanding job — your dedicated staff, board members and volunteer committees have built a solid organization that is strong and dependable — and above all this program produces results. Cleveland Main Street works steady and continues to be an important program in our Tennessee Main Street network, by following the “Main Street 4-Point Approach to Revitalization” Cleveland continues to reach annual National Accreditation criteria and is recognized as a National Main Street community.
Marr said MainStreet Cleveland has reached a milestone.
Marr has been executive director for five of the organization’s 20 year existence.
The new park which is set to open in June is the latest MainStreet project.
First Street Square will eventually be where the Downtown Farmer’s Market will be held. Marr said the market will open May 27.
Other projects, which were part of the 2003 master plan, include work around Courthouse Square, Broad Street and Five Points revitalization.
