Main Street Programs in Pennsylvania: Revitalizing Downtowns

Across Pennsylvania, Main Street programs are working to strengthen downtowns and commercial corridors by supporting small businesses, improving community assets, and attracting residents and visitors into the heart of our towns and cities.

What Is the Main Street Program in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, the Main Street program’s effort is called Main Street Matters, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This program provides funding, planning tools, and technical support to help downtown and neighborhood business districts pursue revitalization goals such as building and streetscape improvements, façade enhancements, business support initiatives, and overall community development. 

Communities that participate may receive a Main Street designation, which opens the door to competitive funding and structured assistance to implement a tailored five-year revitalization strategy developed by the community itself. 

Why Pennsylvania Has a Main Street Program

Pennsylvania’s Main Street efforts build on decades of effort in Pennsylvania and draws on nationwide experience showing that vibrant downtowns benefit local economies and improve the quality of life. In 2024, Governor Josh Shapiro created the Main Street Matters program and secured $20 million in state funding as part of a bipartisan budget to expand revitalization work statewide. These investments support physical improvements, small business growth, and community infrastructure projects. 

Funding is highly competitive, in 2024 more than 200 applications requesting over $43 million demonstrates a strong demand from communities seeking support for downtown revitalization. The state budget for 2025-26 includes continued funding for the program, signaling ongoing commitment to supporting Pennsylvania’s downtowns.