Main Street Grants Pass

Revitalizing Our Downtown, Celebrating Our Heritage, and Building Our Future

Welcome to Main Street Grants Pass, a community-driven initiative dedicated to preserving, enhancing, and revitalizing the heart of our city. Our mission is to create a thriving, vibrant downtown that serves as the economic, social, and cultural hub of Grants Pass, Oregon. We are part of the Main Street America and Oregon Main Street network, leveraging their time-tested strategies to strengthen our local economy, support small businesses, and honor the historic character of our beloved downtown.

As a nonprofit organization, Main Street Grants Pass unites business owners, property owners, residents, and city leaders in a shared vision: a downtown that is lively, welcoming, and full of opportunity. Whether you’re a local business looking for support, a resident passionate about community development, or a visitor drawn to the charm of our historic streets, Main Street Grants Pass is here to enhance our city’s vitality.

The Four-Point Approach

A Nationwide Movement for Downtown Revitalization

Main Street is more than just a program—it’s a movement. Main Street America, a program of the National Main Street Center, provides a comprehensive framework for revitalizing historic downtowns and commercial districts across the country. The Oregon Main Street Program, part of the Oregon Heritage Division, brings this mission to communities across the state, ensuring our small towns and cities have the tools to preserve their heritage while fostering economic growth.

  • Strengthening the downtown economy by supporting small businesses, attracting new investment, and creating job opportunities.

  • Enhancing the visual appeal of downtown through historic preservation, streetscaping, and infrastructure improvements.

  • Branding and marketing downtown as a destination through events, tourism, and local business campaigns.

  • Engaging local stakeholders, businesses, and volunteers to sustain a long-term revitalization effort.

This model has helped thousands of towns across the U.S. reignite their downtowns, fostering places where people want to live, work, and visit.

The Impact of Main Street in Oregon

Oregon’s Main Street Program has helped cities across the state breathe new life into their downtowns. Towns like Astoria, Albany, and McMinnville have used Main Street principles to:

  • Restore historic buildings and repurpose them for modern businesses.

  • Increase downtown foot traffic and business revenues through creative marketing.

  • Host engaging community events that bring people together and drive economic activity.

  • Preserve their unique cultural identity while embracing growth and innovation.

Grants Pass is now poised to leverage these same strategies to create a downtown that reflects the spirit of our community.

Nighttime street scene in a city with neon signs for bars and restaurants, cars parked along the road.

What We Hope to Achieve in Grants Pass

Our Vision for a Thriving Downtown

Grants Pass has long been known for its scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and historic charm. However, like many small towns, our downtown has faced challenges, including economic shifts, changes in consumer behavior, and the need for infrastructure improvements. Main Street Grants Pass aims to turn these challenges into opportunities.

Our Goals

  1. Support Local Businesses—We will help our downtown businesses grow and succeed by providing resources, networking opportunities, and grant funding.

  2. Preserve Historic Buildings – Maintaining the architectural integrity of our downtown is crucial to preserving our city’s character and attracting visitors.

  3. Increase Foot Traffic—We will make downtown the place to be through engaging events, improved walkability, and enhanced public spaces.

  4. Create a Stronger Local Economy—We will boost economic growth by attracting investment, promoting entrepreneurship, and encouraging property development.

  5. Foster a Sense of Community – A revitalized downtown isn’t just about businesses—it’s about creating a space where people can connect, celebrate, and feel at home.

Our Key Initiatives

    • Business Improvement Grants – Helping business owners fund renovations and storefront enhancements.

    • Shop Local Campaigns – Encouraging residents to support downtown businesses.

    • Pop-Up Shops – Providing temporary retail spaces to test new business ideas.

    • Workshops & Training – Educating business owners on topics like digital marketing, finance, and customer engagement.

    • Building Restoration – Preserving our historic buildings while making them functional for modern use.

    • Public Art Installations – Adding murals, sculptures, and art displays to enhance the downtown atmosphere.

    • Streetscaping Projects – Improving sidewalks, lighting, and green spaces to make downtown more pedestrian-friendly.

    • Historic Downtown Tours – Showcasing the rich history of Grants Pass.

    • Art Walks & Farmers Markets – Providing cultural and shopping experiences that bring people downtown.

    • Music & Cultural Festivals – Celebrating local talent and traditions.

    • Outdoor Movie Nights & Sports Leagues – Creating social and recreational activities for families and residents

    • Collaboration with City & County Leaders – Ensuring our efforts align with broader economic and development goals.

    • Advocacy for Policies that Support Downtown Growth – Working with government officials to streamline regulations and attract investment.

    • Volunteer & Membership Programs – Engaging community members in hands-on revitalization efforts.

How You Can Get Involved

Be a Part of the Downtown Revival!

Whether you’re a business owner, a property owner, or a resident who loves Grants Pass, there are many ways to get involved:

  • Become a Member – Enjoy exclusive networking, marketing, and educational benefits.

  • Volunteer – Join our efforts in organizing events, beautification projects, and business support programs.

  • Sponsor an Initiative – Support the future of downtown by investing in community-driven projects.

  • Attend Our Events – Celebrate and connect with fellow community members at our downtown happenings.

By working together, we can transform downtown Grants Pass into a destination that thrives economically, culturally, and socially.

Horse-drawn carriage in a festive street scene with Christmas decorations, large tree, and historic building.

Join Us in Revitalizing Grants Pass

Main Street Grants Pass is more than an organization—it’s a movement. It’s a commitment to preserving our past while building a dynamic future. Through collaboration, innovation, and dedication, we can ensure our downtown remains a vibrant center of commerce, culture, and community for generations to come.

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Together, we will make Main Street Grants Pass a model of revitalization success.

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