idealist.org

East Somerville Main Streets is part of a nationwide movement of nearly 1400 Main Street Organizations working to build thriving local economies and centers of community. These districts develop local pride and identity, often at a contrast with an increasingly homogenous national landscape. The Main Street Approach advocates a return to community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of traditional commercial districts based on their unique assets: distinctive architecture, a pedestrian-friendly environment, personal service, local ownership, and a sense of community (for more info. see www.mainstreet.org).