The City of Minden has been awarded a Transformation Strategy grant through a partnership with Main Street America, aimed at supporting ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown.
The technical assistance grant, provided by Louisiana Main Street and paid directly to Main Street America, will bring national and state representatives to Minden for an on-site visit Monday, September 8, and Tuesday, September 9. These representatives will work alongside the city’s Main Street Director and Board of Directors to identify strategic priorities that will guide revitalization efforts over the next three to five years.
“This grant will support a focused, data-driven strategy to breathe new life into our Main Street — enhancing economic vitality, preserving historic character, and creating a more vibrant community for residents, businesses, and visitors alike,” the city announced in a public statement.
Sarah Overall, who serves as both Main Street director and the city’s economic development director, shared that the agenda for the visit includes meetings with the Main Street Board, a walking tour of downtown, and stakeholder focus groups with business and property owners, developers, elected officials and, potentially, residents.
Community members are encouraged to participate by completing a public survey to help guide the planning process. The survey is available in English and Spanish at the following link: https://nationalmainstreet.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7VrFpnAJU6Ht8Vg.
Those who wish to contribute to the visit by donating a local item for a welcome basket, providing a meal, or offering treats are asked to contact Overall for more details.
The goal of the project is to strengthen the downtown district and lay the foundation for long-term growth by incorporating local voices, economic analysis, and best practices in downtown development.