| AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Historical Commission (THC) proudly announces the First Street Initiative’s 2026 cohort. Representatives from 24 communities and neighborhoods will join First Street’s statewide network as they pursue downtown revitalization, historic preservation, and sustainable programming for commercial districts in Texas. First Street Initiative welcomes new cohort The THC announced at their January quarterly meeting the following have been accepted into the 2026 cohort of the First Street Initiative: Aledo, Allen, Brownsboro, Caddo Mills, Castroville, Cleburne, Cleveland, Dumas, Fort Davis, the Handley neighborhood of Fort Worth, Glen Rose, Grand Prairie, Hondo, Hughes Springs, Mansfield, Mercedes, Port Lavaca, Post, Rhome, Richmond, San Benito, the Silk Road Cultural Heritage District in San Antonio, Smithville, and Wills Point. Administered by the Texas Main Street Program (TMSP), the First Street Initiative provides free educational and networking opportunities for representatives of downtown districts and urban neighborhoods who are interested in community revitalization and view historic preservation as a priority. First Street participants that are interested and eligible may pursue entry to the Texas Main Street Program. Program goals and expectations Through quarterly educational sessions and assignments, First Street participants explore asset mapping, local data, and physical conditions of existing downtown districts. First Street enables communities to connect with THC programs and services, develop peer networks, identify local opportunities, and share best practices for downtown management. There is no cost to participate in First Street, but each community or neighborhood must designate a point of contact who can speak to current downtown conditions, attend quarterly meetings, and complete required assignments. In addition to consistent network participation, First Street communities must maintain good standing with state preservation reviews and standards. Network participation and next steps First Street participants have been given a 2026 calendar of quarterly meetings and office hours for extra support throughout the year. Sessions feature a mix of speakers, peer discussions, and assignments designed to help communities build a foundation for long-term success in downtown revitalization. Year one of First Street will help each participant establish primary goals specific to individual downtown districts. Subsequent years support participants as they develop identified goals, implement related strategies, and expand the use of preservation tools. Additional information is available on the program webpage tthc.texas.gov/firststreet . About Main Street The Texas Main Street Program (TMSP) supports eligible communities in developing and sustaining vibrant historic downtowns and commercial districts through a comprehensive revitalization approach established by Main Street America that focuses on economic vitality, design, organization, and promotion. Using this trademarked Four-Point Approach, the TMSP helps local Main Street programs leverage historic assets, strengthen small businesses, and create engaging, livable downtown environments across Texas. |
