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Marion, Iowa © Tasha Sams
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Downtown Ruston, Louisiana. Photo by Henry McCoy.
In the heart of North Louisiana, the city of Ruston has become a beacon of inclusive design. The Louisiana School for the Blind is located within our Main Street district, and this drove us to place accessible design at the forefront of our efforts. The impacts of these changes have been huge in creating a welcoming and inclusive Main Street.
The recent Downtown Revitalization project and the ongoing Monroe Street Corridor project exemplify our commitment to accessibility and walkability. We learned a lot from these projects, and we encourage other Main Streets to take an accessibility-first approach to downtown design.
Like many Main Streets, Ruston’s once-thriving downtown suffered from disinvestment and vacancy. Despite this, our community’s leadership recognized Ruston as a place with a rich cultural heritage and piles of potential. In 2010, the Downtown Revitalization project emerged as a collaborative effort between community leaders, local businesses, and government authorities. The vision was to breathe new life into the area and create a downtown that catered to the diverse needs of residents and visitors.
Since the Louisiana School for the Blind is located within our district, we knew that the Downtown Revitalization project had to consider the unique needs of the students and staff at the institution. We invited them to participate in joint discussions between the City of Ruston and other stakeholders. Our conversations brought up numerous apprehensions regarding both the current infrastructure and the construction process, specifically focused on uneven surfaces, road closures, above-ground power lines, barricades, narrow paths, and how these barriers would affect the Center. These discussions informed the design choices we made and the ways we accommodated different abilities during the construction phase.
While under construction, we ensured the safety of students from the Louisiana School for the Blind by utilizing barricades and boards to cover the terrain. Sidewalk construction was a priority and usually was the first part of the process for each block of construction. This guaranteed safe pedestrian travel during each phase of the project.
Sidewalks throughout Downtown Ruston underwent a significant transformation as a result of the project. Wider pathways were created to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids, ensuring unobstructed movement for individuals with varying mobility needs. The smooth surfaces also benefited those with visual impairments, creating an environment where navigating the downtown area became more intuitive.
Nighttime beer crawl in Ruston. Photo by @cbbuie.
The design and placement of street furniture – including benches, planters, and trash receptacles – were implemented with inclusivity in mind. Features like the addition of tables and benches were incorporated into the park to cater to individuals with different mobility levels, fostering a sense of comfort and convenience for everyone. Tactile paving, designed to guide individuals using canes or relying on tactile feedback, was also incorporated. These features not only improved wayfinding for the visually impaired but also contributed to a more inclusive urban landscape.
The ripple effects of the Downtown Revitalization project on the Louisiana School for the Blind have been profound. The school saw an immediate improvement in the accessibility of its surroundings. Students, faculty, and visitors from the school now experience a more welcoming and navigable environment, fostering a sense of independence and community integration. Pam Allen, the Director of the Louisiana Center for the Blind, said “construction is a part of progress and a normal part of life. Our students have learned valuable skills navigating safely around construction since it will happen in various places and times throughout their lives just as drivers experience it and problem solve around it.”
In 2019, following the success of the Downtown Revitalization project, we continued our journey towards inclusive development with the Monroe Street Corridor project. This initiative aimed to create a seamless connection between key areas of the city by completing a 7‑mile walking and biking path. The corridor provides convenient access to downtown, Louisiana Tech University, dining establishments, employment opportunities, healthcare facilities, and grocery stores. We collaborated with Louisiana Tech University to successfully secure a BUILD grant to fund the development of this multi-modal pathway traversing the city.
The Monroe Street Corridor project included many important accessibility upgrades. Enhanced crosswalks are equipped with features catered to pedestrians of all abilities. Improved street lighting along the corridor increases visibility, which is crucial for pedestrians with reduced vision. The emphasis on lighting also contributed to a heightened sense of safety for pedestrians. The integration of tactile markers at crosswalks and the repair of uneven surfaces throughout the corridor further enhanced accessibility, providing a supportive and inclusive route for those with visual impairments.
Streetscape improvements in Downtown Ruston. Photo courtesy of Downtown Ruston.
Streetscape improvements in the Monroe Street Corridor. Photo courtesy of Downtown Ruston.
The success of both the Downtown Revitalization and Monroe Street Corridor projects was contingent on the active involvement of local businesses and institutions. Stakeholder collaboration played a crucial role in shaping the inclusive design features, ensuring that the projects were not only visually appealing but also genuinely accessible to everyone.
Public forums, consultations, and engagement initiatives allowed residents, including those from the Louisiana School for the Blind and Louisiana Tech University, to express their needs and concerns. This iterative design approach facilitated a more nuanced understanding of accessibility requirements, leading to adjustments and refinements that maximized inclusivity. We will continue to collaborate with local authorities, businesses, and residents to address emerging needs and preserve our inclusive urban landscape.
The leadership of our mayor was also a key factor in our success. “The City of Ruston understands that quality of life issue is an important part of growing a great city,” said Mayor Ronny Walker. “One of those issues is developing and consistently improving a vibrant downtown.” This understanding has allowed the City of Ruston to accomplish a great deal for its residents and students.
The Downtown Revitalization and Monroe Street Corridor projects illustrate how downtown design can foster a sense of independence, community integration, and equal opportunity. By collaborating with local institutions like the Louisiana School for the Blind, we created a model of inclusive development that goes beyond aesthetics to build environments where everyone can thrive. Through this work, Ruston has become a powerful example of the transformative power of community collaboration, accessibility, and inclusion.
Community Heart & Soul, a Main Street America Allied Member, is this quarter’s Main Spotlight advertiser. For more information about the products and services they provide to Main Street organizations, click here >
Music has a unifying power to bring people of all generations, backgrounds, and cultures together for creative expression. Let’s explore how accessible, family-friendly music experiences can strengthen Main Streets across America to build stronger communities, one concert at a time!
Main Street America is pleased to announce the launch of a $1.8 million sub-grant program as part of our partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) Thriving Communities Program.
Beloit, Kansas © Shane Hampton
Construction projects can put a lot of stress on your downtown. From preparation to completion, Brooke Prouty at Iowa Economic Development Authority shares best practices to help your Main Street thrive during construction.
Creating real change in business ownership starts with local communities leading the way, backed by strong partnerships and collaborations.
At the heart of thriving Main Streets are vibrant public spaces that unite people of all ages and backgrounds and enrich community life. And what better way to activate public spaces than through the power of free, live music?
Middlesboro, Kentucky © Levitt Foundation
Learn how Main Streets can tap into federal resources to improve transportation infrastructure, take down barriers, and improve access to key services.
Main Street America is proud to announce the release of a new resource to help Main Streets and commercial district organizations better prepare for and respond to more frequent and severe disasters.
Marion, IA © Uptown Marion
This Boston Main Street installed an innovative street mural to highlight crosswalks and improve pedestrian safety.
These seven Main Streets have implemented innovative, exciting, and fun programs to help welcome dogs to their downtowns.
MSA President and CEO Erin Barnes explores how a holiday market in a public park brought a new focus on growing humanitarian needs in downtown city centers.
The RAISE program funds surface transportation projects with local and regional impact by enhancing safety, mobility, sustainability, and economic growth.
Streetscape improvements can make a big difference for Main Streets. © Grant Harper
Learn how Main Street America's work with the DOT's Thriving Communities Program is supporting transformative efforts with community partners like the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe.
Apply for federal funding to remove, retrofit, or mitigate transportation infrastructure that creates barriers to community connectivity.
Art is a powerful tool for community change. Learn how the arts can improve community engagement, boost economic development, and connect with the Main Street Approach.
Streets play an important role in our downtown districts. Learn more about Main Street America's recent work with the Department of Transportation to promote vibrant and sustainable downtown roadways.
Learn how the Safe Streets and Roads for All program is providing grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries.
Streetscape in Denison, Texas. © Mel Climer — Climer Design
REV Birmingham and Woodlawn United share how they work to reenergize spaces and places in Birmingham, Alabama, through civic infrastructure projects in the city’s historic commercial corridors.
Learn how the Little Five Points neighborhood of Atlanta uses this unique mural program to celebrate Valentine's Day and raise important funding for their work.
Learn how micromobility can increase access, equity, and inclusion in your Main Street with examples from local programs across the network.
This Washington Main Street is encouraging people to brave the rainy weather with their free umbrella share program.
Parking is a challenging problem for many Main Streets. We explored the arguments for and against free parking, and a method for conducting an inventory of parking in your downtown.
Miami, FL © Matt Alaniz
Learn how Bainbridge Island Downtown Association leverages their connection to the ferry to create a walkable and vibrant downtown.
Bainbridge Island, WA © Anna Carson
An innovative artistic project brings new life to the alleyways in Billings, Montana.
Billings, MT © Downtown Billings Alliance
In big cities and small towns, people face increasing danger when navigating communities on foot. As advocates for connected and walkable downtowns, Main Streets have a crucial role to play in increasing pedestrian safety.
Lansing, Michigan © Lansing 5:01
Learn how you can participate in the Thriving Communities program as a capacity builder or how you can receive support from the program.
To celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month, we explored three innovative and interesting parks-based projects and collaborations in Main Street communities.
Waterloo, Iowa, shares advice and lessons learned from their e-scooter program.
Learn how you can harness design principles and strategies to create a cooler, more welcoming downtown.
Main Street America was awarded $5.9 million to support 20 communities in the Main Streets Community of Practice through the Department of Transportation's Thriving Communities Program over the next two years.
The City of Leeds, AL welcomed a new downtown mural over the holidays that has brought a sense of excitement and anticipation for the continuing efforts to focus on the Leeds downtown district.
Leeds, AL © Jeremy Dove
What is more Iowan than turning grain bins into public art? Learn how Main Street Coon Rapids created these beautiful murals to celebrate their downtown.
Coon Rapids, IA © Main Street Coon Rapids
Pollinator gardens are fantastic ways to increase green space, promote sustainability, and educate your community on the local environment.
Crofton, MD © Kerry Kelly
The AARP Community Challenge program gives out quick-action grants to activate public spaces. Meet some of the Main Streets awarded grants through the program this year.
Learn how these outdoor microspaces can contribute to more vibrancy in our public spaces.
Chairman Emeritus Ed McMahon explores the power of place in creating spaces people love.
Boise, ID © christiannafzger
To support Georgia Main Streets throughout the recovery process and position them for long-term sustainability, Main Street America launched the Georgia Main Street Innovation Grant Program, made possible through generous support from The Williams Family Foundation of Georgia.
Thomasville, GA © Thomasville Main Street
Intentional placemaking has had many unexpected benefits for this Alabama town.
Wetumpka, AL © Jenny Sue Stubbs
We heard from organizations across the nation about the incredible impact their markets have had on community engagement, entrepreneur and small business support, and keeping their district vibrant.
Mount Airy Downtown, Inc., celebrated the return of their Market Street Arts and Entertainment District (MSA & ED) last weekend, as part of their pandemic recovery efforts.
Mount Airy, NC © Robbie Curlee
A vacant storefront is the perfect stage to creatively promote the available space or to showcase other businesses and events in the area.
Ripon, WI © RetailWorks, Inc
Interested in creating a StoryWalk in your downtown commercial district? Read on to learn more about installing a successful story walking trail.
In remembrance and in honor of Dr. Marin Luther King Jr., over 900 streets in the United States were named after him. Many are located predominantly in African American communities.
Milwaukee, WI © Historic King Drive BID
Dubbed the Blues Alley, the Ripley Main Street program plans to install murals of local pioneering Black blues artists, cutout guitars painted by local art students, and blues lyrics painted on the walls.
Ripley, MS © Ripley Main Street
Wayfinding guides people to places they seek but it also brings awareness to places they may have otherwise missed.
Since 2013, Try This West Virginia has sought to improve health environments in local communities as a collaboration of organizations working together to combat the health challenges facing West Virginians.
Main Street America partnered with OneMain Financial to create Made on Main Street.
Creating a historic or art walking tour is much more than simply a collection of pictures and descriptions.
Over 300 attendees enjoyed a family-friendly block party that celebrated the community and showcased Prosser's upcoming streetscape improvement project.
Cambridge was the first Main Street community in Maryland to install public chargers.
The Downtown Newton Development Association (North Carolina) partnered with the City of Newton on a temporary tactical urbanism project to demonstrate how their permanent streetscape improvements will benefit downtown.
Over 500 people braved the misty rain this past weekend to come and celebrate Painesville and its Made on Main Street community transformation project.
Wilson Artsy Alleys is an initiative of the Wilson Downtown Development Corporation which takes the arts to new locations in forgotten places.
In October 2017, Main Street Ottumwa collaborated with local partners, Main Street Iowa, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Better Block Foundation to stop planning, talking, and wishing, and start doing.
Kelly Tompkins of Main Street Enid shares more about the Maker Trail project and how it inspired creativity and helped people discover downtown.
The Metuchen Downtown Alliance created a cool, family-friendly public gathering space in “the worst looking spot in town” with the help of just $2,500 in Edward Jones Placemaking on Main Challenge matching grant funds,
A collaborative effort launched between Laramie Main Street Alliance (LMSA) and vertical farming company, Plenty, looked to blank downtown walls as a canvas for growing food, creating conversation, and activating overlooked spaces.
From walkability and transportation connectivity, to access to nature and availability of fresh food, place is inextricably linked to achieving positive health outcomes in rural America.
Beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower fountain through Main Street Paris's new Love Lock Fence.
Kasey Drummond, Glenrock Main Street Director, explains how they brought the acclaimed graffiti artist ARCY to their Main Street and explores the work he produced in three additional Wyoming communities on his summer tour.
Karen Dye, Newkirk Main Street's program manager, was inspired to “make downtown more fun and festive” with painted water meter covers after learning about the practice at a recent Main Street Now conference.
Appealing to mobility-challenged shoppers yields benefits beyond the store.
In contrast, the Main Street Program in Laramie, Wyoming, is thriving, having successfully cultivated millions of dollars to help fill these vacant, blighted spaces with permanent structures.
In this article we’ll explore the process of planning, funding, installing, operating, and enjoying music on your Main Street.
In 2016, the North Carolina Main Street & Rural Planning Center partnered with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s Department of Interior Architecture (UNCG) to provide design assistance to Main Street communities.
Placemaking is a strategy that Six Corners Association has enthusiastically applied to our community development efforts because of its seamless integration with the Main Street Approach.
How one Wyoming Main Street implemented a free bike share program.
In 2015, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) partnered with the University of Wisconsin–Madison to engage Wisconsin Main Street organizations and farmers markets in the Metrics and Indicators for Impact – Farmers Markets (MIFI-FM) toolkit.
The local Main Street organization, Downtown Milford Inc., is trying to address these shifting demographics by creating a more inclusive sense of community.
This is the story of how a National Endowment for the Arts gathering in DC inspired the leaders of a small town in Appalachia to connect with those in Milwaukee to transform a neglected park.
Main Street communities across the country are no stranger to seeking creative strategies to solve their most nagging issues – vacant buildings, marketing downtown, bolstering retail to name a few.
This article is the second in a series on corridors and the important role they play in Main Street revitalization. The previous article focused on the historic origins of corridors, corridor types, and functions that they serve in our communities.
Façade appearance is a critical aspect of the overall aesthetic appeal and unique character of downtown.
While the Main Street program may not take the lead in corridor enhancements, it can be a vital partner and advocate for improvements in overall community appearance.
Street pole banners preserve the historic character of main streets while fostering community awareness and engagement.
With strong community support, the Library Foundation was able to raise over $1.2 million dollars in private donations.
A lot of signs are necessary to make a downtown work well, but not every community knows what a good sign system looks like, or how instrumental it can be to the creation of a successful downtown.
A key goal of the Atlanta Streetcar is to attract investment to and revitalize the neighborhoods along the streetcar alignment.
