Technical Assistance

Main Street West Virginia provides technical assistance funding to all Main Street and OnTRAC programs. The technical assistance funding is based on the needs of the local community and can be adapted to meet those needs. By utilizing the Main Street America network, our office can find a consultant that best meets the goals for each project. Past projects include a parking study for the City of Point Pleasant, a strategic planning session for the City of Morgantown, an introduction to Business Improvement Districts, a housing study for the City of Wheeling, as well as market studies completed for 12 of the 13 Main Streets in our program. The data gathered in these projects is then used in reaching the goals identified by the board and larger community.

In addition to one on one technical assistance projects, technical assistance funds are also used to provide trainings for Main Street and OnTRAC boards, volunteers, and Executive Directors. Trainings are provided on a quarterly basis and are based on current issues that may impact our communities. Trainings have included Board Training, Work Plan training, Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit training and Fundraising training. Additionally, Main Street West Virginia hosts an executive director retreat, as well as a statewide training in conjunction with the West Virginia Brownfield Conference. These trainings invite field experts to discuss emerging trends in historic preservation and community development.

Technical Assistance funding is provided to Main Street and OnTRAC programs throughout the year. Communities can request funding that will be used for place based priorities and projects. TA Funding has been utilized to complete market studies, housing studies, parking studies as well as marketing assistance to small business owners. These projects are generally larger scale that have the potential to impact the larger community. All projects must be approved by West Virginia Main Street prior to choosing a consultant.