Hope Downtown Network now a Designated Main Street America Affiliate

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – 860 Main Street America programs across the nation have earned Accredited status, the 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™,” the group said.

“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,” Main Street America said. Hope Downtown Network is one of the entities that has been named a Designated Main Street America Affiliate. In posting the announcement locally, Hope Downtown Network had this reaction, ” Way to grow! 2018 -2020!”

“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.”

The group said 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.