(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, Mayor Bowser presented a certificate to Georgetown Main Street, designating the area as a full member of the DC Main Streets program. Each DC Main Streets program is organized and led by local volunteers and community development professionals who lead sustainable, community-driven efforts to promote economic development, strengthen their neighborhoods, and improve the quality of life for residents.
“We continue to enhance our city’s economic engine by investing in corridors like this one,” said Mayor Bowser. “Many small businesses have been able to thrive because of DC Main Streets, and now we are proud to bring this community-oriented program to the small businesses of Georgetown.”
DC Main Streets, a program of the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), serves as the citywide coordinating program that provides services and funding for the now 16 Main Streets programs found in Washington, DC. The mission of these 16 programs is to revitalize communities by retaining and recruiting businesses, improving commercial properties and streetscapes, and attracting consumers.
“We are thrilled to welcome the newest addition to our DC Main Streets family. The contributions Main Streets programs make to the continued economic growth and prosperity of our city is invaluable. The proven Main Street model will support Georgetown with retention of the long-time businesses that are increasingly at risk,” said DSLBD Interim Director Tene Dolphin.
DC Main Streets is a nationally recognized program, and three of its programs – Barracks Row, H Street NE, and Shaw – have received the distinguished Great American Main Street Award. Washington, DC is the only city in the country with three Great American Main Street awards.
During the Bowser Administration, DC Main Streets has expanded from eight programs to 16 programs. Between fiscal years 2015 and 2017, the program has generated more than 3,000 jobs and supported the opening of 272 new businesses.