DENISON, Texas (KTEN) --  People in Denison have lived with Main Street's growing pains over the past few years, but now they are starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. 

America's Main Street Award has nominated Denison for their third time as a semi-finalist. The award is meant to recognize hard work and transformation the city is going through.

"Were ecstatic, when someone whose business is Main Street recognizing the work we are doing, that is incredibly excited," said Denison Mayor, Janet Gott.

Denison's Main Street is attempting to combine five star restaurants to classic candy shops and museums to become a luxurious downtown. 

Revitalization has not been easy; from the pandemic to losing businesses, its been more of an uphill battle for the city.

"The highway bypass downtown took another hit, we lost Barretts drug which was a stable downtown, and everyone saw resilience through that," said Main Street Director, Donna Dow.

Denison resident, Javonte Wimbish stated, "I think they should bring more clothing, retail stores down on Main Street so we don't have to go to Sherman all the time, but what they are doing right now is amazing."