Since 1983, Columbia Main Street has been working to re-energize historic downtown Columbia by bringing life back to the place that was once the area’sprimary hub of social and economic activity. Columbia Main Street is a member of the Tennessee Main Street Program. The Main Street program was organized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to help revitalize the economic vitality of downtown commercial districts using the National Main Street Center’s Four Point Main Street Approach®.

Design
Enhances the visual quality of downtown by addressing all design elements to create an appealing environment. Columbia’s downtown has a wealth of historic buildings and an array of architectural styles. Major streetscape improvements have been accomplished throughout the downtown district, and deteriorated buildings have been renovated. The installation of improved signage, flowering urns, period street lighting and benches make downtown functional and attractive.

Promotion
Creates and markets a positive image based on the attributes of our downtown. CMS works to educate the community on why downtown revitalization makes economic sense, to correct misconceptions of downtown, and utilizes forms of media to spread the word about exciting things that happen downtown. CMS strives to ensure that downtown Columbia is the center of the community.

Economic Restructuring
Strengthens downtown’s existing economic assets and finds new uses for old buildings. Who works downtown? Who shops downtown? Who lives downtown? What spaces exist downtown? These are questions answered through market research allowing CMS to strengthen existing businesses and recruit new businesses to create a balanced, thriving commercial district.

Organization
Establishes consensus and cooperation by building effective partnerships among all downtown stakeholders and the citizens of Columbia. Successful downtown revitalization requires many groups and a broad base of community support all working together to realize a vibrant downtown district. Join a CMS committee and be part of our effort to revitalize downtown Columbia. Take stock in downtown Columbia by sending in your tax-deductible membership fee to CMS.