A Case Study
We are business owners. We are business supporters.
We are residents.We are civil servants. We are volunteers.
And we are enthusiasts with a vision
for what a small historic downtown can be.
Main Street safeguards Franklin's historic legacy and more.
More than an "organization," Main Street Franklin, is an advocate for our Village businesses. We create events, provide business opportunities, market our businesses and provide a valuable resource for our existing businesses and future businesses.
We are your go-to place for what's happening in the Village.
In August of 2021, the Village Council, established economic development in the Village Center as a top priority, hiring a full time Executive Director to lead Main Street Franklin and economic development initiatives for the Village.
Now working collaboratively, MSF and the Village seek to preserve Franklin’s historic business district while creating an attractive commercial area that houses an appropriate business mix and welcoming streetscape that complements the natural feel and historic architecture.
The Main Street Four-Point Approach®
Main Street Franklin supports economic development and is the foundation for local initiatives to revitalize their districts by leveraging local assets—from cultural or architectural heritage to local enterprises and community pride.
MSF strives to implement a safe, walkable, attractive downtown while preserving and promoting the historic character of the village. MSF is an IRS approved 501 C3 non-profit. We partner with Main Street Oakland County and the national Main Street program.
A Case Study
MSF created a $5,000 façade grant program. This program supported the façade renovation for the Village Plaza and the Costello Barn Rehabilitation (red barn behind Zieben Mare) as well as established plans for the pedestrian & parking enhancement project.
MSF brought Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Community Revitalization Program to its property owners and facilitated the application process, including writing the grant, for the proposed renovation of the Costello barn.
MSF volunteers worked with a local bank to put together a low-interest loan program for our property owners who were looking to do major improvements beyond façade renovations. This low-interest program was a key piece of the puzzle in the financing of the Costello barn project.
Our Accomplishments
-
MSF has facilitated annual property owner meetings. Until the first meeting, the property owners had never come together in one group to address issues of concern, talk about solutions, or just to meet each other.
-
MSF brought the Village Center’s first public mural project to completion. This mural project served to showcase Franklin’s historic Village Center via the arts and raise awareness of our charming businesses district and all that it has to offer to the greater Detroit area.
-
MSF has created a variety of Village Center events that add value to the community, as well as bring business to our merchants. They include: Franklinstein Frenzy, Sip, Shop, and Stroll, Shop Your Heart Out, and the Summer Block Party!
-
MSF brought the first year of the Franklin Farmers Market to town. For years the community wished for a Farmers Market. Then MSF's volunteers created a work plan, and this wish was granted. While it was our volunteer hours and planning that established a base and created a successful first market year - the FCA has now successfully taken this task and they continue operating a wonderful fresh market for our community.
Vision Statement
Through dedication and perseverance, Main Street Franklin will create a dynamic village center of commerce and culture that honors Historic Franklin's preserved architecture and magnificent rural setting, while actively encouraging economic growth to create a one-of-a-kind cultural, shopping, and destination experience for residents and visitors alike.
Main Street Franklin's mission is to create a unique destination with businesses that provide a one-of-a-kind experience while still maintaining downtown Franklin's neighborhood charm.
