FAQs

What is “MainStreet”?

New Mexico MainStreet Program is a grassroots economic development program that assists communities in revitalizing their traditional commercial neighborhoods. A division of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, MainStreet works throughout New Mexico to help affiliated downtown organizations create an economically viable business environment while preserving local cultural and historic resources.

The Program provides resources, education, training and technical services that stimulate the economic vitality of each participating community while celebrating local heritage and culture. MainStreet is a consensus-building program that fosters community pride and encourages the growth of small businesses, consequently enhancing local employment and income opportunities, tax revenues, property values and general quality of life.

New Mexico MainStreet works within the National Trust Main Street Center’s established Four-Point ApproachTM of organization, design, promotion and economic positioning while tailoring to meet local needs and opportunities. MainStreet has been the premier organization that brings life to New Mexico’s downtowns since 1984. Click here for more information on MainStreet.

What is “Off the Road,” and what is its relationship with “MainStreet”?

“Off the Road” is a creative approach to introducing potential tourists and travelers to the benefits of taking time to stop in our MainStreet communities. We have provided information on shopping, dining, and local events and attractions that can help visitors plan a stop or stay. Our “Off the Road” writers personally visited each town, and sought to represent the best each had to offer within the boundaries of the MainStreet areas.

Why don’t I see my town? I don’t see the town I am looking for?

Although many great New Mexico communities are part of MainStreet, others have not qualified or have not yet chosen to participate. This is why you may not see certain New Mexico cities represented here.

Why aren’t all businesses in the community listed?

The businesses represented on the “Off the Road” page are contained with the boundaries drawn up by each MainStreet community. These businesses are located on the main street and/or “traditional” downtown business district that have been defined by the MainStreet program. Thus, while there may be many other interesting and worthy businesses in each town, they fall outside the specific downtown zone. Additionally, in an effort to promote, encourage and reward local MainStreet business, we have not listed chains and national businesses in the areas. The spirit of “Off the Road” is to help visitors see what makes each community unique and foster the spirit of adventurous travel.

Why is my business/event not listed?

“Off the Road” is meant to serve an introduction to a town and is certainly not a comprehensive or exhaustive travel guide, community calendar or community business listing. We have tried our best to represent the community and its interests. Additionally, we have provided links to each towns own website for visitors to get more information on a community. But, if you feel you have been omitted, or have just started a business within the MainStreet boundaries, please contact your local program director using the contact info found at the end of each communities profile.