In 1997, residents and business people of the village of Niantic and all of East Lyme collaborated with the Yale School of Urban Design to envision a more lively and prosperous community. The recommendations of the Yale Charrette were far-ranging and began with the suggestion that Niantic pursue membership in the Connecticut Main Street Program. This milestone was met in 2002. Niantic Main Street has an engaged Board of Directors, a full time Executive Director and many enthusiastic volunteers and donors