Independent We Stand recognized MainStreet DeLand in DeLand, Fla., as the $25,000 winner of “America’s Main Streets” contest. As a top 10 finalist, Deland — population 27,031 — stood out among its fellow Main Streets after more than 300,000 total votes were cast by the public nationwide during the “America’s Main Streets” contest, according to the group.
The MainStreet DeLand Association formed in 1985, transforming a rundown, abandoned district with a more than 50% vacancy rate, to a thriving downtown area now at near 100% capacity. The association dedicates itself to continued downtown economic development while promoting and preserving DeLand’s historic roots.
