In 2005 Las Vegas was designated a MainStreet Community under the umbrella of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Main- Street Las Vegas Corridor stretches from the 1898 Railroad Depot in the east, through New Town along Douglas Avenue, and west to Plaza Park. It was defined by the historic route taken by horse drawn trolleys which ran from 1881 until 1901 when electric trolleys were introduced. The Corridor encompasses three historic commercial districts, each one listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Two historic hotels, twelve restaurants, and 110 independent businesses welcome the visitor to a unique and authentic shopping and dining experience.
Along the Corridor, $5.8 million has been spent by private investors on building acquisition and $7.6 million on restorations. MainStreet de Las Vegas has generated $663,000 in grants to plan, design and construct major streetscape improvements and other beautification projects.
This Spring a major NM Department of Transportation project began on Grand Avenue to create a welcoming entry to Las Vegas with period lighting, landscaping and street furniture. Plans are underway to continue the streetscape improvements throughout the Corridor, as well as to develop Valencia Square, north of Bridge Street, to serve as home to the Tri County Farmers’ Market. You can witness the revitalization of this unique, historic, and culturally rich city. Visit us each year to gauge our progress while you ‘gambol’ in the real Las Vegas and stroll through history!