Silverton has long been known for its rugged beauty, rich mining history, and resilient spirit. Today, that resilience is coming to life through the work of San Juan Development Association and the Silverton Main Street Program, two interconnected efforts shaping a more sustainable, vibrant future for the town’s historic core and broader Main Street community, including both Greene and Blair streets. With a vision of fostering a vibrant, year-round economy while preserving Silverton’s unique character and heritage, these efforts are helping guide the town of Silverton and San Juan County into its next chapter.
San Juan Development is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing economic, housing, and community development in Silverton and San Juan County. Guided by its mission to enhance economic diversification by promoting collaboration, partnerships, and trust among businesses, nonprofits, and local government through community priority projects, the organization has helped establish a clear, community-driven roadmap for the future. In alignment with Silverton’s Main Street strategic plan through the Colorado Main Street Program, SJDA and its partners are working collectively to turn that vision into action.
At the heart of this work is a collaborative approach, essential in a small, rural community where resources may be limited, but strong partnerships are the lifeblood of success. The Main Street Program is structured around four key priorities: creating a cohesive and collaborative business community that supports the vibrancy of the historic core along Greene and Blair streets; providing technical assistance and resources to help businesses support historic preservation and property beautification; advocating for and advancing streetscape, wayfinding, and beautification efforts throughout the historic core; and developing a sustainable, year-round downtown economy. Together, these priorities reflect both the immediate needs of local businesses and the long-term vision for a thriving, sustainable economy in Silverton.
Enhancing the Historic Core Silverton’s charm lies in its historic character, and preserving that identity is a central component of the Main Street Program. SJDA works closely with property owners, the town, and local organizations to support building improvements, beautification projects, and historic preservation efforts. Simple yet impactful programming and initiatives, such as encouraging creative window displays during off-seasons or supporting winterization of buildings, help maintain an inviting downtown year-round. In addition, SJDA is actively advocating for larger infrastructure improvements, including streetscape enhancements and wayfinding systems. These projects aim to make downtown Silverton more accessible, walkable, and visually appealing for both residents and visitors.
Driving a Year-Round Economy Building on this collaborative foundation, the Silverton Main Street Program has focused on turning vision into action through a range of impactful projects and initiatives.
The Silverton Year-Rounder Program recognizes and celebrates businesses that remain open year-round in Silverton’s seasonal economy. The program highlights brick-and-mortar businesses within the Main Street District that operate for at least 42 weeks per year and have been open for at least one year, reinforcing the importance of supporting a year-round downtown.
Art Through the Seasons is a program that brings local art to Silverton’s Main Street during seasonal or permanent business closures. By displaying artwork in vacant storefront windows, the initiative keeps the downtown vibrant, enhances building aesthetics, and provides local artists with unique, high-visibility opportunities to showcase their work.
Main Street Open for Business Silverton was awarded $612,849.30 in grant funding from Colorado Main Street: Open for Business in 2021. These funds went toward new roofs and windows, solar panel installation, exterior painting, and energy-efficient appliances, greatly improving the appearance and energy efficiency of Silverton’s downtown.
Implementation of the Silverton Entryway Signs is now underway. After 12 years in planning, implementation is now underway, with new signs set to be installed by Spring 2026. The signs will feature artwork by local artist Ken Webb and a design by local graphic designer Katarina Ochabova. We’re thrilled to welcome visitors and residents through a refreshed and more beautiful community entrance.
From supporting year-round businesses to investing in building improvements, public art, and energy efficiency, these efforts strengthen Silverton’s downtown while preserving its historic character. With new programs and infrastructure projects on the horizon, Silverton’s Main Street Program continues to evolve, supporting local entrepreneurs, responding to community needs, and building a more vibrant, sustainable future.
By Sarah Moore
