NASHVILLE – Gov. Phil Bredesen approved $330,000 in Main Street Innovation Grants for 22 of Tennessee’s Main Street Programs.
Murfreesboro Main Street will use its portion for streetscape enhancements including banners, bike racks, recycle bins, print/publications and mapping projects.
Each participating community will receive $15,000 with which to develop or continue innovative projects, programs, activities and/or technology that exemplify good downtown revitalization practices following the Main Street “four point approach to revitalization.” Innovation Grant projects relate to design, promotion and marketing or business development.
“Innovation Grants play a critical role in community development by revitalizing some of Tennessee’s most prized historic downtowns in new and creative ways,” Bredesen said. “Fostering a thriving local business center is key to sustainable economic growth, and I’m pleased to award funding to these 22 communities to support their efforts.”
The Main Street Innovation Grant encourages Tennessee’s Main Street communities to explore unique projects, programs, activities and technologies that shape best practices in downtown revitalization. Grants can be used to enhance the downtown district’s appearance, promote local business development or market a community through printed materials or a Web site.
“Especially in today’s challenging economy, it is important for communities to think outside the box as they seek progress,” ECD Commissioner Matt Kisber said. “Innovation Grants for Main Street communities not only encourage unique growth strategies, they make the implementation of those strategies possible. I applaud each of the recipient communities for their dedication and initiative.”
Tennessee has participated as a coordinating partner in the National Main Street Program since 1983. The program requires communities to meet requirements before becoming certified, including broad-based support for downtown revitalization through local citizens and government involvement, financial commitment, organizational structure, potential, previous history of downtown activities and a comprehensive understanding of the Main Street “Approach to Revitalization.”
About the Tennessee Main Street Program
Main Street revitalization is a comprehensive, incremental, self-help economic strategy that also focuses on developing public-private partnerships to enhance community livability and job creation, while maintaining the historic character of their downtown district.
For more information on the Tennessee Main Street Program, contact Kimberly Nyberg at (615) 532-3595 or Kimberly.Nyberg@tn.gov or visit the ECD Web site at www.tnecd.gov.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development
The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to create higher skilled, better paying jobs for all Tennesseans. The department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth.
To find out more, go to www.tnecd.gov. |
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