Mainstreet Cleveland has been designated as a 2020 Accredited Main Street America program. Accredited status is Main Street America’s top tier of recognition and signifies a "demonstrated commitment to comprehensive commercial district revitalization and proven track record of successfully applying the Main Street Approach."
“We are proud to recognize this year’s 860 Nationally Accredited Main Street America programs
that have dedicated themselves to strengthening their communities,” said Patrice Frey,
president & CEO of the National Main Street Center. “These Accredited Main Street programs
have proven to be powerful engines for revitalization by sparking impressive economic returns
and preserving the character of their communities. During these challenging times, these Main
Street programs will be key to bringing economic vitality back to commercial districts and
improving quality of life during the recovery process.”
In 2019 alone, $6.45 billion of public and private reinvestment was generated, 6,466 net new
businesses were opened, 32,316 net new were jobs created and 10,412 buildings were
rehabilitated in Main Street America communities.
Mainstreet Cleveland’s performance is annually evaluated by the Tennessee Main Street
program which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs
that meet ten rigorous performance standards. 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.
“Mainstreet Cleveland is proud to be accredited by the National and Tennessee Main Street
program. The board of directors and staff work diligently to maintain these standards of
performance," said Sharon Marr, executive director. "Thanks to the dedication and generosity of
its membership, sponsors and government leaders, Mainstreet Cleveland continues to lead
revitalization projects that will serve generations to come. It provides quality community events
that bring more than 64,000 people downtown each year.”
Officials said, "Mainstreet Cleveland is comprised of businesses, corporations, nonprofit organizations and individuals dedicated to revitalization and promotion of downtown. Its mission is to build on downtown’s inherent assets, rich architecture, personal service and traditional values and, most of all, a sense of place. The organization encourages entrepreneurship, downtown cooperation, and civic concern while preserving rich history. Mainstreet Cleveland strives to leave future generations with a thriving, progressive downtown that still tells the story of Cleveland’s past.
Mainstreet Cleveland has been an accredited Main Street community 1990."