What is the Main Street Program?

The Main Street Program is a coast-to-coast initiative created by the National Trust for Historic Preservation involving more than 5,000 American communities. It is the single-most successful downtown community development program in the nation that emphasizes preservation, walkable downtowns, civic engagement, and creative place-making. Together, the programs in these communities have produced an investment of more than $5 billion and spurred the rehabilitation of countless historic structures. At the same time, space has been provided for 38,000 net new businesses and 100,000 new jobs have been created for local citizens. The programs lift up a community’s business district as the heart of a town and a place helps define our identity.

For more information on the Main Street Program:
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Pennsylvania Downtown Center
Pennsylvania Department of Economic and Community Development

The LEDC has been a Pennsylvania designated Main Street Program since 2005.

LEDC Committees

If you are interested in joining any of LEDC’s Committees, please contact our Main Street Manager at mainstreet@lansdownesfuture.org

  • Organization: The Organization Committee develops broad local, county, and state support for the activities of the LEDC. The Organization Committee also oversees the financial stability of the LEDC.
  • Economic Restructuring: Economic Restructuring Committee works to assist downtown businesses, identify and attract a strategic mix of businesses to Lansdowne, and promote commercial properties.
  • Design: The Design Committee oversees projects that create an appealing downtown shopping atmosphere that encourages pedestrian shopping and enhances historic character.
  • Promotions: The Promotions Committee works to promote the downtown as a great place to work, shop, own a business, and live. Initiatives include Celebration Theater, Lansdowne Farmers Market, Lansdowne Arts Festival and Community Youth Garden.

National Main Street standards of performance:

  • Broad-based public and private sector support for the revitalization process
  • Vision and mission statements
  • Comprehensive Main Street work plan
  • Historic preservation ethic
  • Active board of directors and committees
  • Adequate operating budget
  • Paid, professional program manager
  • Program of ongoing training for staff and volunteers
  • Reporting of key statistics to coordinating program
  • Current member of the National Main Street Membership program