We observe sound program principles:
We build on the Main Street approach promoted by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The National Main Street Center's mission is to empower people, organizations and communities to achieve ongoing downtown and neighborhood district revitalization based upon the principles of self-determination, resource conservation and incremental transformation represented through the comprehensive Main Street approach.
Since 1980, the National Center and its state and citywide Main Street partners have helped more than 1,600 communities rebuild the economic vitality of their town centers. Cumulatively, these districts have generated more than $15 billion in new investment and boast a net gain of 206,000 new jobs, 52,000 new businesses, and 79,000 building rehabilitation projects. (Source: 2000 Reinvestment Statistics report from the National Trust for Historic Preservation)
The Main Street New Jersey Program was established in 1989 to encourage and support the revitalization of downtowns throughout the state. Every two years the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs accepts applications and designates selected communities to join the program. These communities, like Lawrenceville, receive valuable technical support and training to assist in restoring their Main Streets as centers of community and economic activity.
We are structured to maximize volunteer participation in the Village revitalization process:
Board of Directors - The board set policies, builds local consensus, chairs committees and oversee all LMS activities. The Board is ultimately responsible and accountable for Lawrenceville Main Street.
Officers are indicated:
Executive Director - The Director, as the sole employee, provides the professional leadership, operational expertise and continuity that keeps the Main Street Program thriving. The Director guides all committee work and reports to the Board of Directors.
Carla Cheifetz brings over 25 years experience in planning, marketing, sales, training, customer service, community relations, networking and administration management to Lawrenceville Main Street. She currently serves as a Trustee of the Lawrence Township Education Foundation and is a member of Rotary.
Committees
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Business Development to strengthen existing businesses and recruit new complementary enterprises |
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Fund Raising to ensure the financial resources to support policy and programs now and in the future |
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Communication to spread the news about LMS volunteers, activities, and accomplishments in print and online. |
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Design to improve the physical appearance of the Village in keeping with its historic character |
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Landscape to supplement the work of the Design Committee with emphasis on Weeden Park and seasonal decorations |
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Promotion to promote civic pride, a positive image of the Village, and local businesses primarily through special events and public relations |
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Volunteer to recruit, retain, and increase volunteer participation in order to execute the activities of the various committees |
Lawrenceville Main Street is responsible for a renewed community spirit and numerous achievements which include:
- Attracting new businesses
- Focal point for community promotion
- Weeden Park creation
- Holidays in Village celebration
- Music in Park series
- Tree planting
- Flower plantings
- Parking lot repaving
- Streetscape improvements
- Farmers Market
- Halloween events
- Welcome & direction signs
- Government & private grants
Lawrenceville Main Street's Awards include:
National Main Street Community. LMS is officially recognized as a National Main Street Community for the years 1999 through 2007 for its excellence in management, planning and execution.
1999 Mayor's Award for Economic Development. LMS was the first recipient of this award given annually by the Lawrence Township's Growth and Redevelopment Committee.
Main Street volunteers named 1999 Citizens of the Year. Awarded by American Legion Post #414 for outstanding community service.
1999 C. McKim Norton Community Development Award. LMS was proud to become the 17th recipient of this coveted annual award from the Regional Planning Partnership, formerly MSM, which advocates the best use of the land in our region.
Our Mission