About Us

La Grande Main Street Downtown (LGMSD) is part of the National Main Street Program, which is a subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. LGMSD leverages community assets to generate investment, create jobs, and foster the rehabilitation of downtown areas and Main Streets. LGMSD is supported by a Board of Directors, an Executive Director , and four Committees: Promotions, Outreach, Design, and Economic Vitality. LGMSD works closely with its members, downtown businesses, and local organizations to strengthen existing business, to expand opportunities for new businesses, and to plan events and activities that improve the quality of life in downtown La Grande.
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To visit the National Main Streets Center website, click here.

Our Mission

Our mission is to revitalize the heart of La Grande by preserving and promoting its historical and cultural heritage, together we aim to foster a vibrant and inclusive downtown community that supports local businesses, tourism, and economic development.
2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

Our Committees

ECONOMIC VITALITY COMMITTEE (Formally Business Development)
Goal: to work with existing businesses, property owners, and partners to strengthen the local economic base. This committee is currently working closely with the La Grande Urban Renewal Agency. 
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Committee Chair: Timothy Bishop:   City of La Grande Economic Development
DESIGN COMMITTEE
Goal: to enhance downtown’s physical appearance and preserve the community identity and sense of place. This includes public art, streetscape, and activating public spaces through place making,  Current projects are:
  • Flower Basket Program
  • Ghost Signs
  • Pocket Parks

Committee Chair: Mary Ann Miesner
 OUTREACH COMMITTEE (Formally Organization)
Goal: to bring the community together by recruiting volunteers, developing partnerships, and adding resources.  Activities included by not limited to:
  • Annual Meeting
  • Eastern Oregon Beer Festival
  • Membership
  • Funding Raising

​Committee Chair: Nicole Felty

PROMOTION COMMITTEE
Goal: to position downtown as a center of community activity, promote its positive image, and market its unique assets. 

​Events:
  • Crazy Days
  • Safe Downtown Trick or Treat
  • Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday
  • Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
  • Shop Local Sub Committee

Other Activities:
Keep social media and website updated to promote downtown happenings to the community.
Market downtown La Grande to the community at large as a place to eat, live, and invest.

Committee Chair:  Shawna McKinnis