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Although officially named Colorado Avenue, most people know the central commercial corridor of Telluride as Main Street, and thus this treatment area bears that name. Defined as the half of each block that faces Colorado Avenue, from Aspen Street to Alder Street, it contains some of the most picturesque historic commercial buildings in the Rocky Mountain west and functions as the commercial core of the town. These buildings frame one of the most spectacular views in Colorado to the east end of the canyon. Preservation of such historic and scenic assets, especially in the Main Street Commercial Treatment Area, is vital to the community.

Each historic building in this treatment area significantly contributes to the integrity of the district. Therefore preservation of all these resources is crucial. This holds especially true as new development occurs.

Main Street evolved from an early period of tents and small frame structures to a collection of masonry structures and larger wood buildings. Many had false fronts that established a rectangular façade as the dominant shape of the street. Seeking to demonstrate the permanence of the community, builders presented a refined image on the street, with decorative trim and painted finishes. For many intervening years, Main Street appeared less developed than it had during boom years of the mining era, because some early buildings were lost to fire and demolition.

By the 1980s, new construction had filled in many of the gaps in the street; however, more development is taking place and while change is expected, it is critical that this new construction be compatible with the historic character of the street. Since there is an alignment of storefronts, a rhythmic placement of windows on the second floors and a consistency in roof heights, a strong continuity pervades this area and ties it together. Exceptions do exist, but these are not the rule and act as accents to strengthen the continuity of the area’s character.

Main Street was, and should remain, the traditional hub of Telluride and the center of commercial and cultural activity. Designs for new construction should reinforce the retail-oriented function of the street and enhance its pedestrian character. Designs should also relate to the traditional storefront and the retail character established in this area.