a not for profit 501(C)(3) is committed to creating a resilient and vibrant downtown through preservation based economic development. One element that all downtowns have in common is that the physical, social, and economic character will change. The challenge for Winter Haven in 1995 was to keep change from translating into decline. Main Street Winter Haven’s response was to become directly involv
ed in causing positive change. The following is a sampling of some of those changes:
•Strong public/private partnership with the City of Winter Haven
•1997 Fifth Street streetscape
•Façade grant program
•USF Study of Façade Renovations
•Downtown Façade Guidelines
•Inventory of available buildings for sale or lease
•Market Analysis and Redevelopment Recommendations for retail & residential uses
•Downtowns Development Design Strategy – LDR Plan
•Partnership with City of Winter Haven and Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce for the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition and “Central Park Stroll”
•Leedy Lifetime Works Tour brochure, audio tour, and website
•Developed a downtown Sign Ordinance draft
•South Central Park Design – Martin & Vargas Design firm
