Main Street Alabama welcomes two new cities to its Network Communities.  Ashland (pop. 2,037) and Lineville (pop.2,332) both located in Clay County, joined 20 Network members that have recognized the economic benefits of preservation and revitalization in our historic business centers. Joining as a Network Community signals that a community is ready to begin a coordinated approach to downtown revitalization.

“We have long heard of the benefits of the Main Street Four-point approach from communities throughout Alabama.  We have momentum and our two cities, while historically may be rivals, are working together to better the whole county,” said Lamar Dewberry, Clay County Economic Developer. “We look forward to working with our cities and business owners to breathe new life in our two downtowns.”

Main Street Alabama will begin providing network community services that will help kick start the programs in each of these cities. 

“Both of these downtowns have the charm, building inventory, and economic opportunities to begin the revitalization process. I look forward to working with them both at the introductory level," said Mary Helmer Wirth, President and State Coordinator, of Main Street Alabama.

The Network is where communities start before applying for Designation. Is your community?  Check out this checklist to learn more.