Lansing, MI – Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation today to announce that the cities of Adrian, Coldwater and Rogers City have been selected by the MEDC to take part in the Select Level of the Michigan Main Street program.
As part of the Select Level of Michigan Main Street, these three communities will receive five years of intensive technical assistance from MEDC with a focus on revitalization strategies designed to attract new residents, business investments, economic growth and job creation to their central business districts.
“Now more than ever, it is vital that our communities take a common-sense approach toward strengthening their core commercial districts and driving growth in the community as Michigan’s economic recovery continues,” said Gov. Whitmer. “With the support of the Main Street program and the MEDC, I believe we can positively transform the downtowns and commercial districts in communities to ensure their place on Michigan’s path toward our future.”
The Michigan Main Street Program aims to create communities distinguished by a “sense of place.” The rationale is based on a range of studies that show investing in creating a “sense of place” is an integral part of developing vibrant downtowns and commercial districts, thereby making the state economically stronger and culturally diverse.
Adrian, Coldwater and Rogers City join 24 other communities already benefitting from participation in the Main Street program. To view a map of the current Michigan Main Street communities, visit here.
“Developing downtowns and commercial districts is essential in creating jobs and growing vibrant, unique places where people want to live, work, visit and play,” said MEDC Senior Vice President Michele Wildman. “Programs like Michigan Main Street provide communities with the tools needed to create jobs, provide desirable places to live and build a sense of place for Michigan residents. I look forward to seeing how these three communities will grow within the next five years.”
The city of Adrian and the Downtown Development Authority are positioned well for the Select Level. The board has shown increased engagement and commitment to the Main Street Approach through transitioning the way it functions under the Four Points. The downtown district has seen large amounts of investment and there are many opportunities for continued investment that will drive their revitalization in the future.
“I am very pleased to have our passionate volunteers and supportive stakeholders achieve MMS Select Level,” said Harry “Dusty” Steele, DDA Board Chair. “We are eager to work alongside Michigan Main Street staff, as we continue implementing the Main Street Approach, to achieve our vision of attracting residents, business owners and developers by preserving and promoting our rich history and our vibrant arts and culture.”
About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org.
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*Media Courtesy of the MEDC*