In 1977, the Main Street Program(MSP) of the United States was founded by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to revitalize downtowns which suffered major declines in their economy and population. This study analyzed the methodology of MSP such as the Four-Point Approach and the Eight Principles, history of MSP, local program organizational structure, local program budgets and funding, official designation and so on. Three successful cases were discussed the background of an introduction to MSP, implementations, results and revitalization statistics. To be able to apply rural development projects in Korea, this study showed the implications such as the need for a program's ethic and methodology, a strong public-private partnership, a dedicated organization, a full-time professional program manager, a commitment to good design and comprehensive work plan, and an educational program of ongoing training for staff, volunteers and other residents.

• 황한철(한경대학교 지역자원시스템공학과) | Hwang, Han-Cheol Corresponding author