The Main Street Approach is rooted in a commitment to broad-based community engagement, a holistic understanding of the factors that impact the quality of life in a community, and strategic focus on the core principles of downtown and neighborhood revitalization: Economic Vitality, Quality Design, Effective Promotion, and Sustainable Organization.  

• ECONOMIC VITALITY: Focuses on capital, incentives, and other economic and financial tools to assist new and existing businesses, catalyze property development, and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators that drive local economies.
• DESIGN: Supports a community’s transformation by enhancing the physical and visual assets that set the commercial district apart.
• PROMOTION: Positions the downtown or commercial district as the center of the community and hub of economic activity, while creating a positive image that showcases a community’s unique characteristics.
• ORGANIZATION: Involves creating a strong foundation for a sustainable revitalization effort, including cultivating partnerships, community involvement, and resources for the district.
• CLEAN, SAFE, and GREEN: Enhancing the perception of a neighborhood through the principle of Smart Growth and sustainability.

  

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Designated Main Streets

Maryland’s Designated Main Street Communities​ represent some of the state’s most vibrant downtown districts. These towns have demonstrated a commitment to fostering economic development, preserving local historic and cultural resources while promoting new investment and business development.  

For more information about designated Main Street Maryland communities, please visit mainstreetmaryland.org​.  

Affiliate Network

Maryland’s Affiliate Network is designed to assist smaller towns and communities with economic development strategies that are at a variety of readiness level, including:  

• Communities that are exploring the development of a downtown revitalization strategy;
• Communities that are in the early stages of preparing to apply for Main Street Maryland designation
• Communities that may not be eligible for Main Street Maryland designation but are interested in addressing local housing and community development challenges through the Main Street approach.

For more information about the Affiliate Network, please email christine.mcpherson@maryland.gov  

The Main Street Maryland Program offers on-site technical assistance visits to help the community develop and plan for the future. As well as access to the State Coordinator and Project Manager to serve as liaisons between the designated community and public-private partners; provide technical assistance, information, and consultation to the designated community; and promote the designated Main Street Maryland communities. 

• Sustainable Communities​
• Mapping Tool​
• National Main Street Center
• National Register​ of Historic Places​
  
• Maryland Historical Trust​