Our Successes
Since Monett Main Street was founded in 2012, we have worked to achieve our mission of revitalizing and strengthening downtown Monett. Below are several of our top community activities and accomplishments. Check back for regular updates on new activities, goals and projects.
Matching Grants for Building Renovation
Since 2012 we have awarded fifteen façade renovation grants for improvements to the exteriors of downtown buildings, helping to renew the character and beautify the heart of our city. With owner’s investment, the project has resulted in approximately $40,000 invested downtown, with improvements ranging from new awnings or a fresh coat of paint to larger-scale restoration projects. Businesses in the Main Street area that are intent on enhancing the social, cultural and environmental wellbeing of historic downtown Monett are eligible to apply for upcoming grants.
Monett Community Development Corporation Low-Interest Loans
In 2013, the board organized the Monett Community Development Corporation, a local community development organization focused on investing in downtown Monett. The MCDC provides gap financing for new and expanding businesses and assists in the redevelopment of Monett’s more established commercial and business districts.The organization currently has $60,000 in a revolving loan fund that is available at below market interest rates. Contact Dennis Pyle at (417) 235-3355 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to learn more.
Historic District
In July 2014 our application to register as a historic district was approved by the National Park Service and now a large portion of the central business district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, referred to as Downtown Monett Historic District. Contributing properties are eligible for a combination of state and federal tax credits up to $0.45 cents on the dollar for any substantial improvement made to their properties. Along with the historic district, Monett Historical Society will be renovating an existing downtown building to house their displays and have a community meeting space. This building is located at the corner of Sixth and Broadway.
Main Street Logo and Signage
Monett Main Street has created a logo specific to the Main Street area to give downtown a unique visual identity. Additionally, wayfinding signs have been installed directing visitors to downtown Monett for shopping, restaurants and city information. These signs create a positive first impression of downtown and help to establish a sense of place for our community’s core. More signs will be added in the coming months to direct visitors to attractions and public parking areas.
Beautification
To enhance curb appeal and boost visitor’s first impression of the area, we have provided sidewalk flower pots for all Main Street businesses. Volunteers worked long hours to plant arrangments in typical Monett Cubs colors along Broadway in 2015 to help beautify the downtown area. New “Discover Downtown,” autumn and patriotic banners have also been purchased. Businesses have had the opportunity to sponsor a “Discover Downtown” banner that will be placed along Kyler and Central for all community members to see. Businesses interested in sponsoring banners need to call the Chamber of Commerce at 417.235.7919 for more information.
Repurposed Faire
This signature Monett Main Street event occurred for the first time in August 2014 and was held again in August 2015. At the inaugural event, downtown Monett welcomed hundreds of visitors with food, live music and nearly 40 vendors offering a wide range of arts and crafts made with repurposed goods. The event was even larger in 2015 with FYI Guy Jeremy Rabe! 2016 is shaping up to be bigger and better. Stay tuned for additional special events and downtown entertainment!
The Broadway Beat
Each quarter we publish a newsletter to update the community on events, goals and accomplishments of Monett Main Street. Published in both English and Spanish, you can find this exciting news in your utility bill each publishing.
Website Development
Together with our DREAM Initiative partners, Monett Main Street developed and maintains this website to provide resources for both existing and prospective businesses, a list of shops and amenities for visitors to explore, events and activities, and a sampling of all that downtown Monett has to offer.
