June 17, 2020 | Announcing the 2020 Accredited and Affiliate Main Street America Communities
We are proud to announce that 860 Main Street America programs across the nation have earned Accredited status, our top tier of recognition. This exclusive designation signifies a demonstrated commitment to comprehensive community revitalization and a proven track record of successfully applying the Main Street Approach™. We also congratulate the 341 programs that have been designated as Main Street America Affiliates this year. These programs are on the pathway to achieving meaningful economic, social, physical and organizational improvements in their downtowns and commercial districts.
“We are thrilled to recognize this year’s Accredited and Affiliate programs and their dedication to the revitalization of their commercial districts,” said Patrice Frey, President & CEO of the National Main Street Center. “Their hard work to advance strong local economies and improve the quality of life in their downtowns is what makes our national movement so powerful. Especially during these difficult times, the Main Street Network will be crucial to strengthening local economies and ensuring downtowns remain vibrant in the years to come.”
In 2019 alone, $6.45 billion of public and private reinvestment was generated, 6,466 net new businesses were opened, 32,316 net new jobs were created, and 10,412 buildings were rehabilitated in Main Street America communities.
Statewide, countywide, and citywide Coordinating Programs evaluate, select, and recommend qualifying communities to Main Street America on an annual basis. Communities must meet ten rigorous standards to qualify for Accreditation status. Evaluation criteria determines the communities that are building comprehensive and sustainable revitalization efforts and include standards such as fostering strong public-private partnerships, documenting programmatic progress, and actively preserving historic buildings. Learn more.
Check out our interactive map here to explore all the Accredited and Affiliate Main Street America communities across the Main Street Network.