MONROE — Dozens of quotes were stenciled on eight downtown blocks overnight in a variety of bright colors and fonts as part of Main Street Rocks: Share the Love and its “re-opening” block party. The quotes, designed and painted by volunteers, feature fun, family-friendly connections.

Main Street Rocks: Share the Love was launched mid-March to help businesses closed due to COVID-19. To date, the program’s gift certificates and LIVE! Facebook shopping sessions have generated more than $60,000 in sales for downtown businesses. 

Main Street Rocks is the new summer theme for 2020. It’s a budget-friendly way to brighten the downtown. 

“The theme takes up a significant percentage of our budget every year. With everything going on, we knew we needed to immediately pivot,” said longtime volunteer Kareesa Wilson. 

Funds that would have gone toward the theme were instead directed to the live sales and gift certificates. But the committee responsible for the summer theme wanted something to create a sense of community like the carvings on a different scale. Ten volunteers have spent the last two and a half months organizing the project, which Main Street is asking the community to join the fun. 

“Come downtown and enjoy this art installation; bring your own chalk and add to the art,” said Main Street Executive Director Jordan Nordby, noting that the more the merrier as long as it’s family friendly. “It’s a way we can all come together as a community and encourage each other.” 

Since most stores have reopened and Main Street’s farmers market has moved back to the Square, the timing was right for a celebratory block party. Nordby said stores are taking necessary precautions for shoppers and social distancing is still the top priority. 

Additional information may be found at www.mainstreetmonroe.org or by calling 608-214-7145.