06-03-2025
Southwestern IN towns to receive new Main Street designations
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – The Office of Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) announced 15 organizations have been recognized as Indiana Main Street programs or have moved into a new Indiana Main Street level. Some communities in southwestern Indiana were recognized.
Officials explain the Indiana Main Street program annually accepts applications for three levels, which include:
Indiana Accredited Main Street (IAMS)
IAMS programs meet all Accreditation Standards set forth by Main Street America, but may lack a full-time paid staff person and do not have an identified transformation strategy.
Aspiring Indiana Accredited Main Street (A-IAMS)
A-IAMS programs are within one year of meeting all Accreditation Standards set forth by Main Street America and may lack a full-time paid staff person.
OCRA's Downtown Affiliate Network (ODAN)
ODAN communities may prefer to specialize in event-related activities only, lack the physical or historical capacity required to qualify as a Main Street organization or are working towards building capacity to meet the Main Street America Accreditation Standards.
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'These organizations are doing amazing work to breathe new life into Indiana downtowns, which support our local businesses and unite our communities,' Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith said. 'Main Street has a way of bringing everyone together. It's where you really get to know your neighbors and come together for local events. It's the heartbeat of the community. Congratulations to all 15 of these Hoosier communities – your hard work is paying off, and I can't wait to see what you accomplish next!'
The organizations earning new Indiana Main Street designations that are within the Eyewitness News coverage area include:
Aspiring Indiana Accredited Main Street
Association For A Better Rockport
OCRA Downtown Affiliate Network
Jacobsville Neighborhood (Evansville)
Framing Ferdinand
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Officials say a main street organization's performance is evaluated by Indiana Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify organizations that meet rigorous performance standards.
'As we celebrate 40 years of Indiana Main Street, we are excited to welcome eight new communities into the program and see seven organizations level up,' said OCRA Executive Director Fred Glynn. 'The Indiana Main Street program continues to grow and help communities prioritize downtown revitalization, transform their main street corridors and fuel local engagement. Congratulations to our 15 newly designated main streets organizations!'
According to OCRA, the organizations will receive a formal certificate, access to Main Street America and Indiana Main Street training, networking opportunities with other regional and statewide programs, a resource toolbox unique to their needs and more.
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