MARTINSVILLE IS NOW A MAIN STREET COMMUNITY
Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the addition of nine new organizations to the Advancing Virginia Main Street Designation, a program aimed at revitalizing downtown areas across the Commonwealth. These communities will benefit from comprehensive services designed to enhance their local economies and preserve historic character.*
Governor Youngkin emphasized the program's long-standing impact, stating, “The Virginia Main Street program has been instrumental in nurturing small businesses, growing local economies, and preserving historic downtowns for nearly 40 years.” He expressed his admiration for the newly designated communities and their dedication to revitalization efforts.
Since its inception in 1985, the Virginia Main Street program, administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), has provided vital assistance to localities focused on downtown commercial district revitalization. Utilizing the National Main Street Center’s comprehensive approach, the program emphasizes a community's unique heritage and culture.
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick highlighted the importance of downtowns, noting, “These newly designated communities are the heart and soul of many communities across the Commonwealth. The Virginia Main Street program offers crucial investments to support their economic development while preserving the unique cultures and histories that make Virginia’s downtown areas such tourism destinations.”
Bryan Horn, Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, praised the flexible framework of the Main Street Approach, stating, “We are extremely proud of our Virginia Main Street communities and are excited to be continuing a strong tradition of supporting local economies across the Commonwealth.”
Since 1985, Virginia Main Street communities have generated over $2.6 billion in public and private investments and created more than 27,000 jobs through the establishment, expansion, and relocation of businesses.
With this latest designation, the Virginia Main Street program continues to play a critical role in enhancing the vibrancy and economic viability of Virginia's downtowns.
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