Main Street to partner with Texas State for downtown assessment

By Ryan Thornton
Office of Media Relations
October 8, 2015

Students from the Honors Business Law class at Texas State University have begun a partnership project with the San Marcos Main Street program that will continue through November.

Janet Hale, senior lecturer in the Texas State Department of Finance and Economics, is directing the students as they partner with the Main Street program in assessing downtown businesses and their economic impact for the City of San Marcos.

The project’s purpose is to inventory and interview the Main Street businesses and compile data to assist the Main Street program in presenting these businesses’ effects on the community. They are looking at employee statistics, hours of operation and the best ways for businesses to receive communication from the City of San Marcos.

As an educator, Hale says she is grateful the students have such an opportunity to get involved outside of the classroom.

“Our honors courses are designed to create a more holistic learning experience for the students while enabling students to understand the global and legal business environment,” she said. “With partnerships like this one, the students are able to use a hands-on approach to learning while giving back to the community they live in.”

Samantha Armbruster of the Main Street Program expressed excitement at the partnership, saying it “will benefit both the community and the students.” She is encouraging businesses to welcome students’ questions.

If there are any concerns or questions, businesses are encouraged to contact the Main Street Program Office at (512) 393-8430 or email mainstreet@sanmarcostx.gov.