Union Square Main Streets follows a proven national model. Begun in 1977 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Four Point “Main Street” Approach is a comprehensive revitalization strategy to stimulate economic development in traditional commercial districts like Union Square. The underlying premise is to encourage economic development within the context of historic preservation in ways appropriate to today's marketplace. 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.
Currently the National Main Street Center administers the program in 40 states and over 1600 communities in the US, most notably with a city-wide network of Main Street districts in Boston. The Main Street model is a framework for restoring a community’s economic vitality then maintaining these positive changes.

More information can be found at the National Main Streets Center.