Florida Main Streets Preserve the Past While Creating Modern Memories

In partnership with: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

First established in 1985, the Florida Main Street initiative has expanded to 57 communities statewide. Administered by the Division of Historical Resources under the Florida Department of State, Florida Main Street utilizes the National Main Street Center’s Four-Point Approach of creating jobs, saving tax dollars, preserving a community’s historic resources and building community pride. Many of Florida’s Main Street communities have a rich agricultural history specific to their region.

“It’s an exciting time for Florida Main Street to be able to serve communities,” says Katherine Beck, Florida Main Street Coordinator.

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Stuart’s Success

A stroll around historic downtown Stuart offers magnificent views of the waterways, bridges, art galleries and the famous sailfish fountain designed and donated by local artist Geoffrey Smith.

Known as the sailfish capital of the world, Stuart sits on Florida’s east coast and borders the St. Lucie River. It takes pride in its beautifully preserved historic buildings and pedestrian-friendly downtown with a collaborative, community-based market showcasing local farmers and artisans. But the town hasn’t always been a cultural haven.

“In the 1980s, Stuart’s downtown had a 60% vacancy rate,” says Candace Callahan, Stuart Main Street Executive Director.

In 1987, residents and business owners worked with the City of Stuart and Florida Main Street to establish Stuart Main Street to improve the downtown through preservation-based economic development and revitalization.

“We’ve maintained a 0% vacancy rate for more than 35 years, and Stuart Main Street is considered a leading organization because of the strength of our community partnerships,” Callahan says.

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Market on Main

Taking charge of the downtown farmers market two years ago to better align it with the Main Street mission of being incubators for entrepreneurs and creating jobs, Market on Main is one of Stuart Main Street’s recent expansions.

Held rain or shine every Sunday in Flagler Park, visitors can find handcrafted goods and locally grown fruits and vegetables while showcasing area musicians and activities like free art and Zumba classes, kids cooking classes, and a Kids Market that nurtures young farmers and entrepreneurs.

“We love the Stuart Main Street program, and Market on Main is one of their shining stars,” Beck says. “It’s a place where people gather and discover what’s going on in the community. It brings local fruits and vegetables to people and allows the area to come together.”

Working alongside the City of Stuart, Stuart Main Street continues to add tremendous value to the coastal town, with many more plans for the future.

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