What is the Main Street Program and Why It Matters to Our Community

The Main Street Program is a nationally recognized approach to strengthening business districts. At its core, it’s about helping communities like Nazareth create vibrant, welcoming places where businesses can thrive and residents and visitors feel proud to gather, shop, and invest.

Rather than focusing on one single project, activity or event, the Main Street Program takes a holistic view of a district. It looks at how a place looks, how it functions, how businesses are supported, and how the community tells its story. The goal is simple but powerful: build a strong local economy while preserving the unique character that makes a downtown special.

The program is built around four key areas. Economic vitality supports existing businesses and encourages new ones through tools like market analysis, business development, and revitalization strategies. Design focuses on the physical appearance of the district—historic buildings, storefronts, signage, and public spaces—so the area feels attractive and inviting. Promotion highlights what makes the district special by developing marketing campaigns, organizing and supporting events and activities that bring people downtown. Organization brings everyone together, creating partnerships between business owners, residents, local government, and volunteers to move shared goals forward.

For business owners, the Main Street Program can mean increased foot traffic, coordinated marketing, technical assistance, and a stronger business environment. For residents, it means a safe, walkable and lively downtown with local shops, community events, and places to connect with neighbors.

The Nazareth Economic Development Commission, a nonprofit organization, manages an affiliated Main Street Program.  We follow the Main Street approach in how we manage our organization and how we operate in the community.  

Questions?  Reach out [email protected]