“These innovative ‘green’ projects showcase our Tennessee downtown communities’ commitment to environmental and downtown revitalization efforts and allow them to lead by example,” said Commissioner Kisber. “The Main Street/Green Street proposed projects will not only enhance and improve individual downtown communities, but they also support the state’s efforts to advance sustainability and economic development across Tennessee.”

Certified Tennessee Main Street Programs were eligible to apply for a reimbursable $5,000 grant from ECD’s Main Street Green/Street Innovation Grant program to develop or continue innovative projects within their community’s downtown that illustrate tangible results through “green” and sustainable activities. Projects are required to utilize Main Street principles and follow the “Main Street Four-Point Approach to Downtown Revitalizationt.”

Mainstreet was awarded $5,000 for signage, promotional materials, tents and other needs for its weekly Saturday farmers’ market on the Historic Courthouse lawn.

Communities submitted proposals in one of the following three categories:

• Sustainable design for downtown – Streetscape and property upgrades that encourage “green” design.
• Marketing and technology – Marketing and technology that encourages “green initiatives.”
• Local business – Tangible projects that encourage local enterprise.

“Each of the selected projects presented concrete plans to establish or improve conservation efforts in their downtown community while utilizing the Main Street principals,” said Rick Meredith, assistant commissioner for Community Development at ECD. “We are eager to see the projects be put to action and the benefits they will bring to downtown and central business districts across the state.”

Ten certified Tennessee Main Street Programs were awarded an additional $1,000 in grant monies for participating in the Tennessee Main Street Mentor Program.

The Main Street Mentors will share best practices, offer advice and provide assistance to communities participating in ECD’s Tennessee Downtowns, a program focused on helping communities fully understand what it takes to embark on a comprehensive downtown revitalization effort.