Representing Los Alamos MainStreet, from left, Ryn Herrmann, Suzette Fox, Kelly Stewart, Rose Evans, Philo Shelton and Rich Williams receive the 2016 National Great American Main Street Award ‘One to Watch’ in May in Milwaukee, Wisc. Courtesy photoStaff Report
Nov. 26 is Small Business Saturday and an opportunity for the community to show its support by visiting and shopping at local businesses.
Since Los Alamos MainStreet (LAMS) was established in 1993, it has operated within a unique partnership model. LAMS is a program of the Los Alamos Commerce & Development Corporation (LACDC), along with the Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Centers, Research Park, Creative District and projectY. All work together for the purpose of downtown revitalization and economic development.
LAMS has a strong, mutually-beneficial relationship with Los Alamos County, demonstrated by its long-term financial and programmatic support of the district. LAMS has built partnerships with numerous organizations, the best example being the Los Alamos signature event, ScienceFest, whitch features 39 local partners working together for success.
LAMS has engaged a diverse array of public and private individuals and entities in its MainStreet Futures Committee, which provides a forum for coordination of district interests. It is made up of downtown property owners, financial institutions, real estate agents, non-profits, retail, restaurateurs, LANL representatives and local government.
Inaddition to LAMS’ most recent National Accreditation, the program received a “Spirit of Preservation Award” from New Mexico MainStreet in 2015 for advocacy of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park, as well as the 2016 Great American Main Street Award “One to Watch”.
Los Alamos MainStreet facilitates four successful events – ScienceFest, Fair & Rodeo, Trick or Treat on MainStreet and WinterFest. MainStreet also facilitates the Farmer’s Markets and Creative District that continue to lead successful events in their own right.
LAMS goals for the future include collaboration with LosAlamos County in 2017 on two economic development infrastructure projects in the district. Deacon Alley requires a redesign of the current parking, landscaping, shade structures and lighting. Also the 20th Street Extension will develop property on the Los Alamos canyon, currently used for storage, into a technology center. Finally, LAMS continues to participate in the development of the Tourism Master Plan with Los Alamos County to increase tourism.
