The Alberta Street Business Association (ASBA) was named as one of the three Portland Main Street Programs on Friday in a ceremony with Portland Mayor Sam Adams.
“This program, which will supplement the generous donations made by so many of our businesses and neighbors, will help us continue to develop the Alberta commercial district,” said Diane Coward, who owns Fuel café and is Co-President of the Alberta Street Business Association. “Our goal is to create a vibrant, thriving community where people can live, shop, do business, and really connect with each other. Connection is key, because that’s what will make this effort sustainable.”
The Main Street Four-Point Approach, which was developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, advocates a return to community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of traditional commercial districts based on their unique assets: distinctive architecture, a pedestrian-friendly environment, personal service, local ownership, and a sense of community. The approach emphasizes organization, promotion, design, and economic restructuring. In addition to these four points, Portland Main Street highlights sustainability as a core value through the support of local businesses and environmental stewardship, making it the nation's first Urban Main Street program to highlight environmental sustainability.
In addition to funding, the National Trust Main Street Center and the Portland Main Street Program will provide guidance and training to the three Main Street Districts to help them through the process of putting together a plan for the future.
“It won’t be easy and it won’t happen overnight,” says Matney. “But we all know that by working together and coordinating our efforts we can make our neighborhood even better.”
For additional information about Alberta Main Street contact Stacey Matney at piefootwear@gmail.com
