Secretary of State Cord Byrd recognizes Main Street Crestview Association as Florida Main Street program of the month for January 2026
Tallahassee, Florida – The Main Street Crestview Association (MSCA) in Okaloosa County has earned statewide recognition as the Florida Main Street Program of the Month for January 2026. Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced the honor today, praising the organization’s ongoing dedication to revitalizing downtown Crestview, supporting small businesses, and fostering vibrant community spaces.
“This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication of the Main Street Crestview Association to preserving their historic community,” Secretary Byrd said. “Their efforts to revitalize Downtown Crestview, support small businesses, and foster welcoming spaces demonstrate the true spirit of Florida Main Streets. I commend their leadership and the lasting impact they continue to make in Northwest Florida.”
Crestview, often referred to as the “Hub City,” has a rich history dating back to the 1880s when it was first settled along the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad, later known as the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. Its strategic location made it a natural center for agricultural trade, particularly peanuts, cotton, and lumber. The city’s name comes from its elevated position, offering a “crest view” of the surrounding landscape. Early settlers were drawn by fertile farmland, abundant timber, and the transportation opportunities the railroad provided. Incorporated in 1916, Crestview quickly became a trade and travel hub for northern Okaloosa County, and in 1917 it was named the county seat, a role it continues to hold today.
The city’s growth accelerated in the 1930s with the support of local businessman James E. Plew, who contributed to the region’s military development. Plew leased land for an airport in 1933 and donated 1,460 acres in 1934 for a bombing and gunnery base, which became the Valparaiso Bombing and Gunnery Base in 1935 and was later renamed Eglin Field in 1937. Today, the installation is known as Eglin Air Force Base and remains a key economic driver for the region.
From its beginnings as a railroad town, Crestview has grown into a thriving Northwest Florida community while maintaining its historic charm. The Main Street Crestview Association has been central to preserving that character. Since joining the Florida Main Street Program in 1997, MSCA has generated $16,282,408 in public and private investments. The city has welcomed 163 net new businesses creating 486 net new jobs, and residents have contributed over 27,358 volunteer hours to support community initiatives.
MSCA’s focus extends beyond economic development to organizing events that celebrate the city’s culture and history. Annual highlights include the Triple B Festival in March, the Fall Festival in October, the Holiday Market in November, and the Crestview Christmas Parade in December. MSCA also partners with the City of Crestview to host additional downtown events, drawing visitors, supporting local businesses, and fostering a strong sense of community.
In the past year, the organization has also prioritized accessibility and inclusivity. One notable project involved improvements to the downtown pocket playground, including the installation of a handicap-accessible swing set and ADA-compliant safety flooring. This addition ensures that children of all abilities can enjoy safe and inclusive play spaces in the heart of downtown.
The Florida Main Street Program, which celebrates Crestview this month, recognizes communities that demonstrate excellence in historic preservation, economic development, and community engagement. By supporting downtown revitalization, fostering business growth, and creating inclusive public spaces, Main Street Crestview serves as a model for other communities across the state.
“The Main Street Crestview Association continues to show what is possible when a community comes together with vision, dedication, and pride in its history,” Secretary Byrd said. “Their accomplishments in Northwest Florida reflect the very best of the Florida Main Street program and set a high standard for other towns to follow.”
For more information on the Main Street Crestview Association and its ongoing projects, visit historicdowntowncrestview.org. To learn more about the Florida Main Street program, including other participating communities and statewide initiatives, visit Florida Main Street or follow the program on Facebook and Instagram.
With its combination of historic preservation, economic growth, and community engagement, Crestview’s downtown revitalization efforts highlight the enduring value of the Florida Main Street Program, offering residents and visitors alike a vibrant and inclusive city center to enjoy.
