Starting in 1999, Jacksonville Main Street (a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization) began taking actions dedicated to preserving and enhancing downtown Jacksonville. Virtually everyone in the area is a stakeholder in the success of downtown, therefore, understanding that the vitality of downtown Jacksonville is a direct benefit to all citizens and businesses of Jacksonville and the surrounding region, we are the only charitable organization that reinvests all of its profits back into the historic downtown business district.

As one of over 20 Main Street communities in Illinois, and one of only 2 active Great American Main Street Award winning communities in the State, this alliance of local agencies, merchants, property owners, and patrons follows the National Main Street Center’s Four Point Approach, incorporating a comprehensive transformational strategy to foster economic development within the context of historic preservation by working in the areas of design, organization, promotion and economic vitality. Since 1980, Main Street has been a major force nationally in downtown revitalization with proven principles and strategies.

With local funding as its sole source of revenue, Jacksonville Main Street receives no operational money from ANY state or national sources. Jacksonville Main Street is a public/private partnership that occasionally receives foundation or government grant funds for specific projects, but not for general program management or the support provided to business and property owners that ultimately benefits the economic health of the entire region. Project grants typically make up less than 15% of the annual budget and can only be used on the activity for which they were sought. The organization receives less than 15% of its annual budget from the City, about 20% from tax deductible donations from residents and area businesses through the annual Partnership Drive, and the rest from events and fundraisers.

Now seen as a vital part of our community and crucial part of the community's economic health, downtown Jacksonville has begun to flourish, with several rehabilitation projects, more public and private partnerships, many new businesses and expansions, and enhanced promotional events that contribute to its continued growth and development.

Jacksonville Main Street’s award-winning work does not happen overnight or all by itself: It is an ongoing and gradual process that involves many volunteers and community partners and includes projects that tackle all kinds of challenges. It takes constant nurturing to maintain and preserve a healthy, vibrant downtown area. Hence, Jacksonville Main Street is not a project with a beginning and an end, but an organization with continual goals and evolving objectives. To learn about our journey thus far, watch our video here. And learn some more about the architecture of downtown here.