[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 98 (Tuesday, June 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E609-E610]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HISTORIC MAIN STREET OXFORD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE ROGERS

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2024

  Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
recognize Historic Main Street Oxford (HMSO), an exemplary economic and 
community development organization established by the Oxford City 
Council on July 24, 2014. For nearly a decade, HMSO has been a beacon 
of progress and revitalization in Northeast Alabama, embodying the 
principles and practices that make our communities thrive.
  Historic Main Street Oxford operates under the esteemed Four Point 
Approach strategy of Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic 
Vitality as outlined by Main Street America. This approach ensures HMSO 
remains an effective tool for community-based, volunteer-driven, 
grassroots revitalization efforts.
  Since its inception, HMSO has been accredited by Main Street America 
and Main Street Alabama, a testament to its dedication to preserving 
the charm and vitality of downtown Oxford. Over the past decade, HMSO 
has welcomed 31 businesses, with 18 still successfully thriving in the 
downtown area. This is a clear indicator of the robust economic 
environment HMSO has fostered.
  In 2018, HMSO launched an innovative city-funded facade grant 
program. This initiative

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has significantly enhanced the aesthetic appeal of our downtown, with 
28 projects funded, resulting in a public investment of $37,664 and a 
remarkable private investment of $163,296. This program not only 
beautifies the downtown, but also stimulates further private investment 
and economic growth and has had over $10 million of investment since 
2014.
  HMSO has played a crucial role in coordinating community events and 
business development workshops. These activities support local 
businesses and foster a strong sense of community.
  HMSO stands as a model of success-based economic and community 
development. Its efforts have transformed downtown Oxford into a 
vibrant hub of activity and culture, reflecting the hard work and 
dedication of its leaders and volunteers. I commend HMSO for its 
outstanding contributions to our community and look forward to 
witnessing its continued success and growth.
  HMSO exemplifies the power of community-driven efforts in creating 
sustainable and vibrant local economies. Their accomplishments over the 
past decade highlight the importance of preserving our historic 
downtowns while adapting to modern needs and opportunities. Let us 
celebrate and support such initiatives that enrich our communities and 
our lives.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the 10th anniversary of 
Historic Main Street Oxford.

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