Missouri Main Street Connection Inc. (MMSC) presented downtown awards recognizing performance excellence during Missouri’s Premier Downtown Revitalization Conference in St. Louis on July 28, 2023. The event was hosted at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark.
The ceremony on Friday night honored communities, individuals, businesses, and organizations from across the state that have completed exemplary work in downtown revitalization. Competitive nominations were submitted for projects, activities, and individuals in 13 different categories that covered aspects of design, economic vitality, organization, promotion, and other efforts in downtown revitalization.
Missouri Main Street Connection is the leading statewide nonprofit organization devoted to preservation-based economic development. Through the Main Street America™ movement and our partners, we empower community revitalization by celebrating, supporting, and sustaining Missouri historic commercial districts in both rural and urban settings.
In 2022 Missouri Main Street communities have created 332 net new jobs, 146 net new businesses, saved 303 buildings, received $105.5 million dollars in public and private investments, and accumulated 62,165 volunteer hours in their districts. The cumulative total investment between 2006-2022 surpassed $1.26 billion or adjusted for inflation $1.63 billion!
Joplin’s Muir Block Awarded Best Historic Preservation Project
The Muir Block is a historic brick building built in 1891 and renovated in 2021 by Lori and Jeremy Haun, who are passionate about preserving downtown Joplin’s heritage. The building, which had been neglected and damaged for decades, is now a vibrant mixed-use property housing a bakery and coffee shop, two first floor residential units, and six upstairs apartments. The project used federal and state historic tax credits to restore the building’s original features, such as the oriel windows, the skylights, and the trim and doors. The project added modern amenities, such as concrete flooring, granite countertops, and stainless appliances. The project created jobs, increased tax revenue, and enhanced the appeal of the downtown district.
The Muir Block is part of the Main and Eighth Street Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district has lost many of its historic buildings due to fire, neglect, and urban renewal. The Hauns realized that saving the Muir Block and neighboring Willard building was crucial for maintaining the integrity and connection of the downtown and midtown areas. Their vision and dedication have inspired other developers to invest in the 800 and 900 blocks of Main Street, where new buildings have been built or are planned.
The Muir Block is a shining example of how historic preservation can revitalize a community’s identity and economy. The project has brought new life and energy to downtown Joplin and has celebrated its past and embraced its future. The Muir Block is a landmark that offers comfort, convenience, and charm to its tenants and patrons.
Submitted By:
Lori Haun
Downtown Joplin Alliance’s
417.529.3888 or lori@downtownjoplin.com.
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