There are bright ideas all over the state for how to revitalize older downtowns, but Calumet's downtown association gained notice above the rest this year.
Main Street Calumet was one of the primary motivators behind the organization of the
CopperDog 150 sled dog race, a 150-mile professional-level race that starts off in downtown Calumet and winds through the Copper Country, with Gay and Copper Harbor checkpoints before returning to Calumet for a downtown finish.
They were recognized this month at the 2010 Michigan Downtown Conference by receiving an award for "Main Street Promotion," given by the
Michigan Main Street Center for the CopperDog 150.
The race's inaugural running was in 2010, and was designed after organizers put Keweenaw sled dog enthusiasts together with ideas from Marquette's U.P. 200 sled dog race, which also has a downtown start that brings thousands of onlookers to downtown businesses each year. It also includes a 30-mile recreational race from Calumet to Gay.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Greg Main says the award recognized what the event brings to downtown Calumet, which is economic opportunity.
"Vibrant communities with thriving downtowns are critical to building a strong and diversified economy in Michigan," says Main.
The awards were given by various state agencies and organizations whose mission is to improve the state's downtown districts. The Michigan Downtown Conference is an annual conference to help community leaders create successful strategies to revitalize their downtowns.
Writer: Sam EgglestonSource: Greg Main, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
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