The future of 76 North Main Street

Our mission centers on the preservation, growth, and vitality of downtown Rochester - and on engaging local businesses, property owners, residents, and public partners in shaping a downtown that is vibrant, historically respectful, and sustainable long-term. That aligns with the Main Street Approach™, which treats broad community engagement and consensus-building as essential to lasting economic success.

Our position

Rochester Main Street does not take a position on a specific end use for the property at this time. Potential uses each present opportunities worth exploring:

• Housing
• Civic or public space
• Cultural or community use
• Economic development or mixed-use solutions

What we do take a position on is process: it must be inclusive, transparent, and community-driven.

Our concern: predetermined outcomes

Building a Request for Proposals around a single, predetermined direction limits the community's ability to meaningfully shape the outcome. Once a process is defined too narrowly, opportunities for broader input and innovative solutions shrink.

Our recommendation: community-driven planning

Prioritize community engagement before defining a final path forward, including:

• Public workshops and forums
• Surveys and stakeholder outreach
• Charrettes or facilitated planning sessions

Early engagement strengthens the final outcome, builds public trust and legitimacy, reduces future conflict, and ensures decisions reflect long-term community priorities.

Historical context

Rochester formally endorsed the Main Street program more than 20 years ago, recognizing that collaborative, community-based planning is the most effective path to a thriving downtown. That principle is just as relevant today.

Our commitment

Rochester Main Street stands ready to help facilitate a thoughtful, inclusive, and productive community engagement process. A deliberate process now will lead to a stronger outcome for generations to come.

Add your voice

Residents, business owners, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate - engage with City Council through public meetings, written comments, or other available channels. Community voices play a critical role in ensuring decisions reflect the long-term needs of downtown Rochester.