On September 26, 2018, the California Main Street Alliance (CAMSA) Board of Directors and the National Main Street Center announced the launch of a new statewide initiative to reinvigorate local economies and revitalize historic downtowns throughout California.
This new partnership will bring a wide range of new training, technical assistance, and Main Street America certification directly to rural, suburban, and urban communities throughout California.
Downtown Pleasanton, where CAMSA is headquartered. Photo by Jay Galvin / CAMSA.
“Our California program has been managed with volunteer board members and part-time staffing for almost 15 years,” states Rachael Snedecor, Executive Director of Livermore Downtown and current California Main Street Alliance President. “The level of service we have been able to provide our new and seasoned California programs has not been up to the level of excellence that communities throughout this great state need.”
“We are very excited to begin this new nationally recognized support as our local downtowns, Main Streets, and commercial districts build and sustain vitality,” Snedecor continued. “I would like to thank our Board Members: Laura Olson, Executive Director Pleasanton Downtown Association; Rick Wright, Oceanside Main Street; Leanne Peterson, Main Street Martinez; Nancy Martinez, Benicia Main Street; and Craig Sharton, Fresno Downtown Advocate for bringing their vision and commitment to the table for the last two years as we began this process. The relationship promises to be a beautiful one for our small businesses, communities, and the State of California!”
California has a long legacy of strong community-driven Main Street revitalization. Since California Main Street’s inception in 1986, communities participating in the program have reinvested $7.1 billion in their downtowns, launched 6,353 net new businesses, created 30,137 net new jobs, and rehabilitated 1,300 buildings.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with CAMSA to help bring renewed support to statewide Main Street revitalization efforts,” says Patrice Frey, President and CEO of the National Main Street Center. “We’re grateful for the CAMSA’s leadership in supporting a stronger California Main Street program, which will enable communities to develop and implement strategies to grow their local economies and enhance quality of life for residents.”
Featured photo is downtown Coronado. Photos courtesy of California Main Street Alliance.