MSNJ ACCREDITATION
As a Main Street America™ Coordinating Program, Main Street New Jersey helps to lead a powerful, grassroots network consisting of over 40 Coordinating Programs and over 1,200 neighborhoods and communities across the country committed to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development.
Historically, Main Street New Jersey provided selected communities with technical assistance and training of proven value in revitalizing historic downtowns. The program helps municipalities improve the economy, appearance and image of their central business districts through the organization of local citizens and resources.
What is Main Street New Jersey?
Main Street is a comprehensive revitalization program that promotes the historic and economic redevelopment of traditional business districts in New Jersey. The Main Street New Jersey Program was established in 1989 to encourage and support the revitalization of downtowns throughout the state. Every two years the DCA accepts applications and designates selected communities to join the program. These communities receive valuable technical support and training to assist in restoring their Main Streets as centers of community and economic activity.
The results in New Jersey have been impressive. MSNJ Communities have brought significant numbers of new businesses and jobs to their respective downtowns. In addition, facade improvements and building rehabilitation projects have upgraded the image of Main Street. MSNJ builds on the Main Street Approach that was developed by the National Trust's National Main Street Center in 1980 to assist downtown revitalization efforts nationwide. top of page The
When a community participates in a comprehensive revitalization effort, its downtown can experience a return of economic vitality. Benefits of the Main Street program include the following:
- Protecting and strengthening the existing tax base
- Increasing sales and returning revenues to the community
- Creating a positive community image
- Creating visually appealing and economically viable downtown buildings
- Attracting new businesses
- Creating new jobs
- Increasing investment in the downtown
- Preserving historic architectural resources