What Main Street Does for Downtown
For residents and business owners, Main Street programs offer a pathway to stronger local economies, more attractive commercial districts, and increased community pride. Whether you’re thinking about starting a business, improving your storefront, organizing events, or simply enjoying a more vibrant downtown, these programs aim to support initiatives that make Pennsylvania’s Main Streets lively places to live and work.
How the Program Helps Communities
Once a community receives a Main Street designation through Main Street Matters, it is eligible for (through the competitive grant process):
Planning and strategy development funding
Grants for façade and streetscape improvements
Business improvement grants
District development and accessibility projects
Technical assistance and strategy support
These resources help business districts enhance their appeal, attract investment, and implement projects that make downtowns more vibrant and welcoming.
Examples of Pennsylvania Main Street Participation
Various communities across Pennsylvania have earned Main Street designations and are actively using program resources to drive revitalization. For example:
Gettysburg’s Main Street program was recently recognized with a national accreditation for its work enhancing historic downtown amenities and supporting long-term economic development.
Other designated Main Street communities include Bedford, Easton, Honesdale, Mount Lebanon, Wilkes-Barre, and Lewisburg, among others.
Each community shapes its own strategy based on its local needs — whether that’s restoring historic buildings, improving walkability, supporting new businesses, or enhancing public spaces.
