Friday, May 11, 2007

Lawrenceburg Main Street Awarded $10,000 Grant

   Lawrenceburg Main Street is one of twenty Main Street communities selected as recipients of Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development grants totaling some $200,000.

   The Main Street program is a statewide program that provides communities with technical assistance and guidelines in developing long-term strategies that promote economic development, historic preservation and growth in traditional commercial districts across Tennessee. The program requires certified Tennessee Main Street communities to meet National Accreditation standards which include broad-based community support for the program, a comprehensive work plan, a sufficient operating budget and adequate staff and volunteer support.

   Each of the twenty Main Street Programs will receive $10,000, with each community matching twenty percent. The grant supports the development of new, innovative projects, programs, activities and technology that exhibit best practices in downtown revitalization.

   Lawrenceburg Main Street leaders applied for the grant in the hopes of bringing greater attention to the downtown shopping district. Hopes are to increase awareness of downtown Lawrenceburg through street enhancements and marketing strategies. The grant will fund the development of a Web site, brochures, downtown signage and planters.