Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, Economic Development Secretary Alicia J. Keyes announced that Co-Director Rich Williams will retire from the New Mexico MainStreet program at the end of the month. Williams has directed the New Mexico MainStreet program for more than 16 years where he was dedicated to creating economic opportunities in New Mexico. The New Mexico MainStreet Program fosters economic development in the state by supporting local MainStreet revitalization organizations and their local government partner in their economic work in downtowns and adjacent neighborhoods.
“Rich’s dedication to serving New Mexico communities and helping create economic opportunities in our downtown districts is an inspiration to all of us at the Economic Development Department,” said Economic Development Secretary Alicia J. Keyes. “I thank Rich for his committed service to the state of New Mexico and wish him the best in his retirement.”
The MainStreet Program has seen tremendous growth during Williams' tenure from 2003-2019: local MainStreet programs grew from 9 to 30, the New Mexico Arts & Cultural District program was added serving 11 communities, the Historic Theaters Initiative was established with 8 Historic Theaters restored and reopened, and more than 24 rural Frontier and Native American Initiatives have been served.
“It has been an honor to work with so many amazing communities & volunteers in New Mexico and see tangible impacts, community investment, and partnerships flourish through the MainStreet program,” said Rich Williams.
In 2018, the New Mexico Municipal League presented Williams with the “Amigo De Las Ciudades” award. The award is given out rarely and recognizes exemplary service to communities. The New Mexico Municipal League noted his tireless work to move proposals and policies forward that benefit communities.
“Rich has been an integral part to making New Mexico downtowns great places to live and grow businesses,” said New Mexico MainStreet Co-Director Daniel Gutierrez. “Thank you, Rich, for being a great mentor and your commitment to NM MainStreet and the state of New Mexico.”
As of April 30, Daniel Gutierrez will be Interim Director of New Mexico MainStreet.
Since 2003, MainStreet communities around the state have reported:
Number of New Businesses: 2,285Business Expansions: 379Number of New Jobs: 8,399Private Building Rehabilitations: 2,638Dollars of Private Sector Reinvestment: $296,734,431
Williams also worked with New Mexico Legislators and Governors on policy and funding issues for rural and community economic development. He served on multiple boards and committees including the New Mexico Scenic Byway Council, PACE, New Mexico Route 66 Association, and the National Diamond Jubilee of Historic Route 66.
About New Mexico MainStreet:
A program of the New Mexico Economic Development Department, New Mexico MainStreet works throughout the state to help affiliated local organizations create an economically viable business environment while preserving cultural and historic resources. New Mexico MainStreet currently serves 30 affiliated MainStreet Districts, 11 state-authorized Arts & Cultural Districts, 4 Frontier and Native American Community projects, and 8 Historic Theater Initiatives. For more information about New Mexico MainStreet, visit www.gonm.biz or www.nmmainstreet.org.