Designation of North Vernon Main Street as an Indiana Accredited Main Street will open up new opportunities to accelerate historic preservation and downtown improvement efforts.
Main Street North Vernon photo
North Vernon Main Street is one of two community organizations statewide designated a 2022 Indiana Accredited Main Street, Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Rural Affairs announced Thursday.
The designation means the Jennings County community met eight of 10 accreditation standards set forth by Main Street America. The Indiana Main Street program encourages community-driven revitalization of downtown areas in Hoosier cities and towns, and the designation could allow North Vernon Main Street greater access to funding for downtown community improvements.
“We’re very excited for our designation,” said Main Street North Vernon executive director Anna Walker. She said dedicated volunteers have been working on developing the nonprofit committed to historic preservation and improving the city’s downtown area. The designation will expand the organization’s access to mentorship opportunities, potential funding and other program enhancements.
“We have some incredible momentum and some great new businesses coming in to compliment our existing tried and true ones that we love,” Walker said of the local efforts in North Vernon. “We’re excited for what the future holds.”
Along with North Vernon, Main Street Greencastle in Putnam County also was named a 2022 Indiana Accredited Main Street.
Additionally, Two Indiana community organizations also were designated Nationally Accredited Main Streets: The Heart of Lebanon in Boone County and Main Street Richmond in Wayne County. Seven organizations around the state were designated OCRA Downtown Affiliate Networks.
A local program’s performance is evaluated by Indiana Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify organizations that meet rigorous performance standards.
The 11 programs recognized by Indiana Main Street will be provided a formal certificate, access to Main Street America and Indiana Main Street trainings, networking opportunities with other regional and statewide programs, and a resource toolbox unique to their needs.
“The Indiana Main Street program continues to be a strong partner of downtowns throughout our great state,” Crouch said. “It sparks economic growth by expanding businesses, creating jobs and attracting private and public investments. Congratulations to each community and local Main Street program for attaining these designations, and for their commitment to revitalizing and enhancing their community’s unique heritage and features.”
