Lake Wales Main Street is patterned after the National Trust for Historic Preservation National Main Street Program. Formed in 1980, the National Main Street Program was created to strengthen the economic health of thousands of older business districts across the country. Many, located in small city downtowns, contained a majority of the nation's historic buildings. In order for these buildings to survive, viable uses must be sought and maintained.

The National Main Street Program utilizes modern economic development tools to stimulate economic activity. The program is a comprehensive revitalization strategy which encourages economic development within the context of historic preservation. Since 1980, the program has emerged as a major force in downtown revitalization across the country.

Concerned about the future of Downtown Lake Wales, a group of local residents and business persons formed Lake Wales Main Street in 1987. Shortly after Lake Wales Main Street was formed, it became one of the state of Florida's first recognized Main Street programs.

Today, Lake Wales Main Street is a local, public-private partnership funded partially by the City of Lake Wales, membership, grants and donations. It is the mission of Lake Wales Main Street to enhance the economic health and social well being of the City's traditional Downtown business district while preserving its architectural integrity, sense of place, and historic and cultural identity.

Lake Wales Main Street Information Brochure