Published: January 02, 2009 10:26 pm      

Wakarusa joins ‘Main Street’

THE GOSHEN NEWS



WAKARUSA — Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman recently welcomed the town of Wakarusa to the Indiana Main Street program.

IMS is administered by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs.

According to a press release from Skillman’s office, “The program provides economic revitalization and professional assistance to participating Indiana cities and towns. As the traditional heart and hub of government, commerce, justice and social interaction, the downtown business district portrays a city’s overall image.”

“Viable downtowns are crucial to the economic health of our state,” Skillman said. “I’m proud to support Wakarusa. The program is creating opportunities for revitalization and restoration, as well as encouraging a favorable environment for businesses.”

Wakarusa will join more than 70 other Indiana Main Street communities dedicated to the revitalization of their downtown areas.

According to the release, the IMS is founded on a four-point approach to downtown development: design, organization, promotion and economic restructuring. Each of these points represents an aspect of the downtown which is vital in the restoration efforts of the community.

Wakarusa has embarked on several revitalization efforts, including new streetscapes in 2004 and 2005, according to the release. Town officials created and developed a facade program in 2007 and 2008, and they boast a unique quilt garden and mural to beautify the community.

The group would like to strengthen their downtown businesses and improve the aesthetics while maintaining the historical integrity.