How MainStreet Works

MainStreet is a revitalization program for downtown areas developed over the past twenty years by the National Trust for Historical Preservation. It is based on the premise that historic buildings cannot be saved unless the downtown area itself is prosperous and offers economic viability. Local programs such as Raton MainStreet are set up as private-public partnerships, combining the resources and efforts of local government, downtown merchants, area businesses, and interested members of the community, including community leaders and volunteers.

MainStreet's success is built around a compre-hensive four-point approach which defines the necessary components of a successful down-town revitalization program.

Organization involves developing the necessary structure for the program – a Board of Directors who are all volunteers, working committees, a paid director, members and volunteers – in order to build consensus and coordinate efforts.

Promotion includes all the tools used to successfully market a downtown, such as special events, retail sales, advertising, and public relations.

Design includes all the visual aspects of an attractive downtown including quality building rehabilitations, commercial and information signage, street furnishings and appealing window displays.

Economic Positioning focuses on improving the downtown area's economic base by strengthening existing businesses, recruiting new businesses, and working to fill vacancies in downtown buildings.

Our Mission

We are committed members of the community dedicated to improving the quality of life in Raton by revitalizing our downtown area. We want to foster business prosperity and offer new economic opportunities. We seek to have a community where all generations can have a sense of pride in Raton and all cultures feel respect for their heritage.

Our Vision of Raton

Raton is “small town America” at its finest. It is a comfortable place to live where residents and visitors alike can escape the “hustle and bustle” of more hectic lifestyles, to be greeted by heart-felt smiles and friendly hellos while strolling downtown, a place where neighbors truly care for each other and offer hospitality to visitors without hesitation. Raton has a deep sense of shared values and community pride, a keen appreciation of its historical and cultural heritage, and also provides the best of modern conveniences. Life in Raton makes you want to be a part of this thriving community where businesses prosper and economic opportunities abound.

Why is Raton MainStreet Important?

Raton's downtown is our original commercial district and in a sense, it represents the heart of our community. Prospective residents and potential business investors will look to the condition of our downtown as a barometer of Raton's pride and economic health. When a downtown area is neglected, it reflects an attitude of indifference about what was once a vital part of the community.

Why Should I Join Raton MainStreet?

Our downtown area represents what is unique about our town, its history, culture and its economy. Raton MainStreet membership provides local businesses and individuals with a very special opportunity to turn their hopes for downtown Raton into reality.

Membership Benefits

Members also receive valuable information on how to make their business more successful through market analysis, identifying new areas for market growth, strategies for reinvestment, revolving loans, and financial incentives.

Through its association with the New Mexico MainStreet Program and the National Main Street Center, Raton MainStreet can provide its members with technical assistance in each of the following areas:

• Visual Merchandising & Display Techniques
• Effective Retail Layout
• Facade, Sign, and Logo Design
• Business Start-Up and Expansion
• Improving Sales and Customer Service
• Developing Promotional & Marketing Plans
• Renovation of Historic Buildings
• Other Programs Addressing Local Issues

Raton MainStreet's cooperative marketing efforts and downtown promotional activities allow participating businesses to stretch their advertising dollar and make a bigger splash.

Your membership in Raton MainStreet will give you the opportunity to become part of a dedicated and skilled team committed to helping build a strong, cohesive downtown and a more successful business community.