To make it easier for out-of-state and Arizona tourists to find their way to and enjoy the atmosphere of historic downtown businesses is a major goal of Main Street Grants awarded by the Arizona Department of Commerce. The communities of Safford and Globe, both of which are an integral part of Arizona's rich history will benefit from the latest round of awards.
The awards total $34,000; descriptions of what they are to be used for are below:
In Safford:
* $15,000 will help the city install an audio system along Main Street to play music during business hours, creating an inviting setting downtown. During special events, advertisements will encourage visitors to stay and shop local.
* The city will receive $15,000 to help pay for analysis and design consultation as it begins restoration of the historic theater, which closed in 1981.
In Globe:
* In July 2005, the four-story building adjacent to the Globe Theater was devastated by fire and its upper floors collapsed into the theater. All that remained was the façade, the entry, and the "Globe" marquee. Construction of a new theater is set to begin in January 2009, and the funding will help pay for restoration of the historic marquee.
"Historic commercial cores are revitalized with these grants, which focus on attracting purchasers to Arizona's retail and transaction centers," said Marco A. López, Jr., Commerce Director. "Downtowns thrive when we focus on assisting communities, enhancing the character of cities for the benefit of residents and visitors.”
The Main Street Program fosters economic development within the context of historic preservation by working as a partner with local and state agencies, property owners and business people to revitalize downtown areas. Established by the Arizona state legislature, the Main Street Program is administered through Commerce to stimulate the preservation and revitalization of downtown areas in smaller communities statewide. Commerce assists Main Street Program participants in creating local organizations that manage both revitalization and promotion of central business districts in their respective communities.