Page 16 - Explore Biloxi ~ Visitor's Guide 2026

DOWNTOWN BILOXI
IS THE PLACE TO BE
BILOXI MAIN STREET
What exactly is Main Street— and how does it work? If you’ve ever wondered, here’s a clear and concise overview.
The Main Street Program is a locally operated, nonprofit, community- driven organization focused on strengthening downtown districts. Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, there are six local Main Street programs, with 48 across the state. Nationally, Main Street America supports roughly 860 accredited programs, a distinction Biloxi Main Street earns each year.
Established in 1990, Biloxi Main Street is led by Executive Director Kay Miller, under whose leadership the organization has earned 31
state awards, including “Best State Organization” in 2005. Miller herself was named “Outstanding Main Street Director of the Year” in 2018. The organization’s mission is to serve as
a catalyst for promoting, preserving, revitalizing, and enhancing the economic growth of downtown Biloxi.
Design projects further enhance the downtown experience. A standout
effort is the award-winning public
art program, including murals that celebrate Biloxi’s history while increasing foot traffic. A mural map helps visitors locate and learn about each piece, with larger versions displayed in kiosks throughout downtown. See the map on pages
26-27. Additional improvements include art installations, fish-shaped bicycle racks, cleanup bag dispensers, lighting enhancements at HowHop, wayfinding signage, and seasonal street banners.
Biloxi Main Street operates using
the proven Four-Point Approach: economic vitality, promotions,
design, and organization. Each area is guided by a committee led by a board member, with participation from business owners, residents, downtown employees, and anyone passionate about the community. The organization is structured with an executive director and staff member, supported by a board of directors that meets monthly and works closely with committee chairs.
Funding comes from grants, event revenue, merchandise sales, and primarily sponsorships. Since 2022, Biloxi Main Street has secured $892,500 in grants reinvested directly into downtown. Sponsors include corporations, individuals, and the City of Biloxi, with opportunities starting at just $50—making community involvement accessible to all.
Ultimately, the Main Street model demonstrates that maintaining a strong quality of life leads to economic growth. Over the past 40 years, it has proven to be one of Mississippi’s most effective and efficient development tools. In fact, more than $176 million has been invested in downtown Biloxi since 2020 alone—strengthening the tax base, supporting entrepreneurship, and building lasting community partnerships.
Biloxi Main Street brings this mission to life through events, economic programs, and design initiatives. Its events are designed to draw people downtown and create a vibrant atmosphere. These include First Fridays at HowHop, featuring live music
and local brews; Pop-Up Events held throughout the year; and Christmas in the City, a festive street celebration with choirs, cultural foods, and more than 100 arts and crafts vendors.
Economic development is another major focus. Biloxi Main Street offers façade grants, supports tax abatement projects, and promotes downtown housing incentives. The organization also connects property owners with potential investors and produces helpful resources like available property guides and downtown maps for visitors, highlighting restaurants and retail options.
16 EXPLORE BILOXI
www.biloxi.ms.us