The ongoing revitalization of Downtown Opelika has a rich history, dating back to the inception of Opelika's Main Street program in 1987. This program has successfully rejuvenated the area, preserving its historic charm from the early 20th century. Today, Downtown Opelika has evolved into a vibrant hub, featuring a diverse range of specialty shops, antique stores, restaurants, galleries, and other attractions, reimagining its role from a center of cotton and textile trade to a bustling cultural and commercial destination.

Opelika Main Street Provides Programs for Community Promotion and Support

Opelika Main Street is heavily awarded, receiving awards in 2021 for Excellence in Fundraising, Excellence in Public Relations, and Excellence in Preservation, to name a few. To learn about the efforts of this program and how you can get involved, keep reading below.

The National Main Street Center's Four-Point Approach™

The Main Street Four-Point Approach® leverages local assets to revitalize their downtown districts by utilizing their local assets- from cultural or architectural heritage to local enterprises and community pride. The Four Points all work together to build a sustainable and complete community revitalization effort. The Four Points are:

1. Organization: building partnerships among the various groups that have a stake in the commercial district

2. Promotion: create a positive image that will rekindle community pride and improve consumer and investor confidence in your commercial district

3. Design: creating a safe, inviting environment for shoppers, workers and visitors.

4. Economic Vitality: strengthening the community’s existing economic assets while diversifying its economic base

The Four Points of the Main Street Approach coincide with the four forces of real estate value: social, political, economic and physical.

Opelika Main Street's Programs for Community Promotion and Support

The Downtown Resource Center serves as the central hub for various essential functions related to Opelika Main Street, including hosting the think tank, housing Opelika Main Street offices, providing meeting spaces, having spaces for retail, and offering public restrooms. In collaboration with the City of Opelika, the Bill Roberts Facade Enhancement Program plays a crucial role in supporting downtown exterior facade improvements by offering matched grants. Additionally, Downtown Opelika holds a significant place in history, as it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Opelika Main Street actively promotes historic preservation through design and educational initiatives. Furthermore, the organization extends its support to local businesses by assisting with marketing and promotion efforts. Leveraging its substantial social media following and a robust email newsletter subscription, Opelika Main Street effectively advertises and promotes events and local businesses through various channels, including local publications and press interviews.

In the nearly 40 years of change from Opelika Main Street, several accomplishments and achievements have taken place. A few include:

• The prevention of demolition of the historic Opelika Depot 

• Construction of Courthouse Square

• Coordination of the Industry on Track program, the outdoor art sculpture exhibit

• Coordination of the Opelika Forward COVID-19 Recovery Program

And many more, with several on the horizon.

Opelika Main Street Signature Events

The Opelika Main Street Calendar stays filled with events for the entire family throughout the year. Be sure to mark yours, so you don’t miss out on the fun. The main purpose of these events is to drive foot traffic in the Downtown area.

• Touch a Truck: This one is for the little ones. At this event, usually in late May or early June, several work trucks from all types of industries are available for children to see, touch, and learn all about.

• On Tap: This event is beloved by those 21+. This craft beer festival brings in more than 50 breweries from all over surrounding cities and states. This event takes place in the spring, usually in May, and is attended by more than 1,000 people. 

• Christmas in a Railroad Town: Christmas in a Railroad Town is Opelika’s signature Christmas event. Celebrate the season with Santa Claus, crafts, and live entertainment. Check off your list by shopping at the wonderful businesses in Downtown Opelika.

• On the Tracks: This event is for those who love wine and love to shop. On the Tracks is Opelika’s signature annual wine trail. At this event, sample wine and learn more about Downtown businesses. 

Get Involved with Opelika Main Street

The wonderful events hosted by Opelika Main Street would not happen without a great network of volunteers. Volunteers are always needed for events, marketing, designing, and economic development. To sign up, visit the website and fill out the form.

Main Street Alabama

Main Street Alabama started in 2013 to serve as a state coordinator of the Main Street program. Main Street is active in more than 30 communities across the State of Alabama. To learn more about these communities and the efforts in each of them, visit our website. 

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