Valued at $24,000, the goal of the Affiliate Grant, according to MMSC sources, is to assist the Love the Harrisonville Square group in carrying out an economic development program based on the preservation of historic assets in the area surrounding the Harrisonville Square and utilizing Main Street’s Four Point Approach to Revitalization.
During the next two years, Missouri Main Street Connection will provide LTHS with training and mentoring to establish a revitalization effort focused on preserving the historic buildings that provide charm to the original shopping district, capitalize on increased interest in the square to facilitate change; and build community partnerships to increase participation with the organization and interest in the historic district.
An early partner in the endeavors of the Love the Harrisonville Square has been the City of Harrisonville. City Administrator Happy Welch is enthusiastic about the benefits which the grant will generate. “The Harrisonville Square is the very heart of the city, and city government is committed to preserving its historic aspects while also fostering a new vibrancy in our original business district.”
As proof of the city’s commitment, Welch noted that various city staff and elected officials have been active members of the LTHS organization since its inception and that he and others helped with the competitive grant application. He also noted the city provided the 40% cash funding match required to secure the new grant.
An early partner in the endeavors of the Love the Harrisonville Square has been the City of Harrisonville. City Administrator Happy Welch is enthusiastic about the benefits which the grant will generate. “The Harrisonville Square is the very heart of the city, and city government is committed to preserving its historic aspects while also fostering a new vibrancy in our original business district.”
As proof of the city’s commitment, Welch noted that various city staff and elected officials have been active members of the LTHS organization since its inception and that he and others helped with the competitive grant application. He also noted the city provided the 40% cash funding match required to secure the new grant.
Missouri Main Street Connection staff will soon visit with LTHS community leaders to evaluate the existing and future needs of the downtown area, and then schedule a series of customized training and mentoring sessions to formulate plans and lay the groundwork for future work.
Throughout its history, MMSC has served over 178 Missouri communities. As one of the newest Affiliates in the organization, Harrisonville will now be included in the Missouri Main Street Tier Structure which will track progress on standards established by the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Main Street Center.
