Today, Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced that Main Street Wauchula, Inc., in Hardee County, has been designated the June 2024 Florida Main Street Program of the Month.
“Main Street Wauchula, Inc., has proven effective in bringing life back to their historic downtown,” said Secretary Byrd. “Congratulations to the community for its vision, planning, and successful implementation of projects exemplifying the core principles of the Main Street approach to economic development and historic preservation.”
Incorporated in June 1888, Wauchula grew alongside the agriculture and cattle industries in Central Florida. It became the seat of Hardee County following the partition of DeSoto County in 1921. Several prominent Floridians hail from Wauchula, including Doyle E. Carlton, the state’s 25th governor. Other notable residents include architect Howard Solomon.
In recent years, Wauchula has diversified its economy beyond agriculture, welcoming new industries and businesses. Efforts to revitalize Main Street have fostered a culture of supporting small businesses and community gatherings. Investments in infrastructure and technology have positioned Wauchula for continued growth.
In the early 2000s, community leaders came together with a vision of revitalizing downtown Wauchula. Designated as a Main Street program in 1995, Main Street Wauchula, Inc., embarked on a mission to preserve the town's historic character while stimulating economic development. Through strategic initiatives focusing on organization, promotion, design, and economic vitality, Main Street Wauchula has played a pivotal role in the town's resurgence.
Signature projects undertaken by Main Street Wauchula include Heritage Park creation and seasonal events like Shop Small Saturday. The organization was instrumental in reactivating Historic City Hall Auditorium as a performing arts space. These efforts garnered public support resulting in local theater group Hardee County Players using the space for productions.
Since 1995, Main Street Wauchula has reported approximately $19 million in public and private reinvestments and added numerous new businesses and jobs to the district.
Jessica Newman, Executive Director of Main Street Wauchula, Inc., recalls the accomplishments with pride but acknowledges future needs: “Main Street Wauchula is a testament to community-driven revitalization,” says Newman. “We still have room for growth... Together we will reach these goals!”
For more information on Main Street Wauchula or Florida Main Street programs visit their respective websites or follow them on social media.