A New Chapter for Downtown Helena: Collaborative Efforts for Revitalization
If someone were to make a wordcloud of all of the words used to describe downtown Helena there would be one word that looms over all others; “Potential”. Tucked between the Mississippi River and Crowley’s Ridge and lined with buildings that look virtually untouched, Cherry Street can’t help but inspire visions of what “could be”. Years of neglect combined with damage from the 2020 Easter Storms has left downtown looking more like a war zone than an entertainment district. But today, a powerful new collaboration is set to turn the tide and revitalize downtown for the future.
Scene from the first joint meeting held at the Phillips County Chamber of Commerce
We are excited to announce a dynamic partnership between the Helena Advertising & Promotion Commission, the Planning Commission, Main Street Helena, and the Phillips County Chamber of Commerce. Representatives from Delta Magic are also serving in each of these commissions. Together, these organizations are joining forces to tackle the pressing issues of blight, incentivize building improvement, and provide new grants to building and business owners who are ready to invest in the heart of the city. This marks the beginning of a comprehensive downtown revitalization initiative that will breathe new life into Helena's historic district.
A United Vision for Growth
At the core of this collaboration is a shared vision: to create a thriving, vibrant downtown that serves as a hub for business, culture, and community life. Each partner brings its own unique expertise and resources to the table, ensuring that all angles of downtown growth are considered and addressed. Each monthly meeting ends with homework for each organization, and begins by addressing the updates on their homework from the last meeting. The culture of accountability is designed to raise the expectations for the groups chartered with the task of maintaining the downtown, leading to more effective and timely work.
Tackling Blight
One of the primary goals of this initiative is to tackle the issue of blight—vacant and deteriorating properties that have hindered downtown’s growth for years. Through targeted strategies, including code enforcement measures and incentives for building owners, the collaboration will encourage rehabilitation and proper upkeep of buildings. In addition, inattentive property owners will be held accountable for neglecting their spaces, ensuring that downtown Helena's storefronts reflect the pride of the community.
New Grants to Fuel Investment
Perhaps the most exciting element of this partnership is the launch of new grant opportunities aimed at incentivizing both building improvements and business growth in the downtown area. These grants will be available to building owners who commit to revitalizing their properties, making it easier to upgrade facades, restore historical details, or renovate interiors for new uses. Business owners, both existing and prospective, will also be able to apply for grants to launch or expand their enterprises, ensuring a diverse and vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and services in the heart of downtown.
These grants are offered by Main Street Helena, of which requires any grant applicant to be an active member. Main Street Helena members not only receive grant support, but also interior and exterior design support from state partners, two free hours of architectural consulting, advertising and promotion, and grant notifications and workshops. By investing in downtown Helena’s businesses, the collaborative hopes to create a welcoming environment that attracts new visitors, strengthens the local economy, and enhances the quality of life for residents.
A Bright Future for Helena
This collaboration is more than just a revitalization plan—it is a commitment to the future of Helena. With support from the city’s key organizations, downtown is poised for a transformation that celebrates its history while embracing new possibilities. Whether you're a local business owner, an entrepreneur with a dream, or simply a resident who loves Helena, this partnership offers hope and opportunity for all.
As work begins, we invite the community to stay engaged, get involved, and be part of the change. Together, we can build a downtown that reflects the spirit and potential of Helena—one that honors the past while forging a bright path forward.
This is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our beloved town. We look forward to seeing downtown Helena flourish once again, thanks to this powerful collaboration and the collective efforts of everyone who believes in its future.