Our Successes

Since Main Street Chillicothe came into being in 2000, we have been working hard to bring real, tangible benefits to our community. In addition to ongoing support for businesses, below are highlights of our work to improve downtown Chillicothe.

Silver Moon Plaza

A new plaza with fountains, benches and plenty of room for community events, Main Street Chillicothe was the leader in the design and construction of Silver Moon Plaza. Both phases were strongly supported by the DREAM Initiative and received funding from the Missouri Development Finance Board along with thousands from private contributors.

Murals

The Main Street Chillicothe mural program began in the mid 1990's and has included nearly $200,000 towards repairing or adding to this unique treasure of our local landscape, painted by the late artist Kelly Poling, who passed away in December, 2018. Main Street Chillicothe has commissioned 24 murals & 1 ghost sign. We developed a mural map and created unique mural merchandise.

Building Renovation

We have awarded over 75 façade renovation grants with additional ones completed each year for improvements to downtown buildings, helping to beautify and renew the character of our city. Façade improvements have ranged from new paint and awnings to full-scale restoration. Main Street Chillicothe has also supported major renovation projects, including the renovation of the Strand Hotel into 32 apartment units.

Beautification

Main Street Chillicothe has worked with area businesses to add seasonal planters and hanging floral baskets downtown. Main Street also led a project to draw attention to downtown historic buildings through a bronze plaque program. We also manage the purchase, hanging and maintenance of the downtown Christmas Lights.

Brand and Identity

Main Street Chillicothe partnered with the Chillicothe Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Chillicothe Visitors Region, Chillicothe Development Corporation, City of Chillicothe and Livingston County to bring a unified look and feel to marketing Chillicothe. The work resulted in new logo and brand guidelines, available to area organizations and municipalities.

Purchasing 504 Washington

In 2016, Main Street Chillicothe purchased and renovated a crucial building at 504 Washington that serves as an entrance into downtown Chillicothe. After renovations were complete and the wall was stabilized, the Graham's Mill mural was recreated, once again creating a colorful entrance into downtown. This building now houses a beautiful upstairs apartment and a business on the first floor, providing a template for successful downtown renovation projects. 

National Semi-Finalist

In 2016, 2017, and 2018, Main Street Chillicothe became a semi-finalist for the Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA). Each year, 10 accredited Main Street communities across the nation are chosen as premier examples of places to live, work, play, and visit. Through community partnerships, downtown Chillicothe has become a unique destination for visitors and residents alike. To receive this distinction is a huge honor for the community. 

Kelly Poling Arts District

With the official naming and dedication of the Kelly Poling Arts District in 2019, Main Street Chillicothe has once again thought outside the box to create a showpiece in downtown Chillicothe. This district is complete with new light posts; hanging lights, banners, new trees, hanging pots, creative crosswalks, hopscotch, and more. This corridor on Locust between Clay and Ann adds yet another unique, artistic pop in downtown. There will be some exciting additions coming in 2020-2021.  Check it out today!