VIDEO
Paul Intagliata, the first Venice MainStreet President,
talks about the organization’s creation
Since 1987, Venice MainStreet has contributed greatly to the vibrancy of the downtown historic district. The timeline and photos featured on this page highlight many of the significant projects accomplished over the organization’s 30+ year history. For a list of Venice MainStreet awards for these and other projects, click HERE. For a list of past VMS board presidents who helped make these projects happen, click HERE.
ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY & DOWNTOWN PROJECTS TIMELINE
1987- Members of the Downtown Venice Association and City of Venice officials formed a MainStreet Exploration Committee to look into transitioning into an official Florida Main Street program.
1989- Gateway arch sign groundbreaking
1989- Completed gateway arch
1996- Purchased light pole banners and Christmas lights for the downtown district
1998- Completed information kiosk in Centennial Park
2006- Completed Intergenerational Fountain in Centennial Park
2011- Added 12 bike racks throughout downtown, in partnership with VABI
VIDEO
Jean Trammell, past Venice MainStreet President and volunteer, talks about the organization in 2013
2015- Created 186 historic district street sign toppers in partnership with VHI
2016- Upgraded the iconic gateway arch sign with state-of-the-art LED lights
2016- Installed 13 flower pots along Miami Ave. in partnership with VABI and Venice Area Garden Club
2017- Created large advertising mural “Venice Is” at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport still on display today
2019- Completed 3-D mural project at corner of W. Venice Ave. and Nassau St. painted by David Lee
2020- Created alleyway signs to improve way-finding
2019- Began monthly appearances of Venice MainStreet on ABC7’s Suncoast View program
2020- Launched VeniceFairies.com and Facebook page in partnership with VAC and Ehrhart Family Foundation
2023- Launched ShopVeniceFL.com online marketplace