Morgan City, Franklin main street programs receive accreditation

Morgan City Main Street and Franklin Main Street are among 20 Louisiana downtowns that are nationally accredited as 2022 Main Street America programs, Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser announce Tuesday.

Accredited status is Main Street America’s top tier recognition demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive commercial district revitalization and proven track record of successfully implementing the Main Street Approach, the Lt. Governor's Office said.

“Historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts are the heart and soul of communities across Louisiana. They give the community its sense of place and character and provide the uniqueness that sets one community apart from another,” said Nungesser in a press release. “In addition, historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts are great locations for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It’s an honor to be able to recognize these 20 Louisiana communities who have worked diligently to revitalize their social cohesion and economic sustainability.”

Nationally in 2021, Main Street America programs generated $5.76 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 6,601 net new businesses, generated 30,402 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,595 historic buildings, and leveraged 1,427,729 volunteer hours. On average, for every dollar that a Main Street program spent to support their operations, it generated $19.34 of new investment back into Main Street communities.

The accredited Man Street programs in Louisiana this year are:

--Crowley Main Street
--Denham Springs Main Street
--DeRidder Main Street
--Donaldsonville Downtown Development District
--Franklin Main Street
--Hammond Downtown Development District
-- Main Street Homer
--Houma Downtown Development Corporation
-- Leesville Main Street
--Morgan City Main Street
--Natchitoches Main Street
--New Iberia Main Street
--New Roads Main Street
--Old Algiers Main Street Corporation, New Orleans
--Opelousas Main Street
--Ruston Main Street
--Olde Towne Slidell Main Street
--St. Francisville Main Street
--St. Martinville Main Street
--Thibodaux Main Street