Main Street Lexington (MSL) is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization established in 2013 that works to create a prosperous and welcoming downtown while preserving Lexington’s unique and historic character. MSL plans annual events for the area’s residents to foster community pride and involvement. MSL is part of the Virginia Main Street Program, which uses a proven "Four Point Approach" created by Main Street America to achieve economic revitalization in the context of historic preservation. MSL connects entrepreneurs, Lexington locals, and out-of-town visitors, making downtown Lexington a historic community hub.

As a Main Street America™ Accredited program, Main Street Lexington is a recognized leading program among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America™ Accredited programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standards of Performance as outlined by Main Street America.

PROMOTING DOWNTOWN LEXINGTON

​We're a volunteer-driven public/private partnership. Established as a volunteer committee in March 2013 as “Lexington Rising,” the organization established its board in June 2013 and hired its first executive director in July 2014. We are a certified 501(c)(3) non-profit. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Our operating budget comes from: 
  • Annual funding from the City of Lexington 
  • Income from events and fundraisers 
  • Sponsorships of special events and initiatives ​

​ENSURING A PROSPEROUS FUTURE

As a revitalization organization built along the lines of the National Main Street Program, Main Street Lexington operates four standing committees, dedicated to the following: 
  • Economic growth and support of existing businesses 
  • Promotion of downtown as a vital place to live, work, shop, dine, stay, and play 
  • Support for and improvement of the appearance of downtown 
  • Engagement with volunteers and downtown stakeholders, including our partners at the colleges, the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism, the City of Lexington and Rockbridge County ​

​STRATEGIC GOALS

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​The various committees of Main Street Lexington are each working toward our organization’s strategic goals for Lexington. These goals are:
  • Lexington is bustling with people living downtown.
  • Lexington is a hub of innovation, art and technology.
  • Lexington is a magnet for destination travelers.