Maryland Launches New Program to Revitalize Main Streets

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has announced the creation of the Main Street Maryland Mentorship Program, an initiative designed to support communities in their efforts to revitalize their downtown commercial districts. This program introduces a new three-tier structure for community designation within Main Street Maryland, aiming to equip emerging communities with the necessary skills and guidance to achieve full designation.

Under the new program, Main Street managers in the Aspiring tier will be paired with one of eight experienced mentors. These mentors, who are themselves leaders of designated Main Street Maryland communities and possess extensive expertise in the Main Street Approach™, will provide crucial support and guidance. The goal is to help these communities develop the competencies required to successfully apply for full Main Street designation at the conclusion of a two-year training period. This program acknowledges the importance of Main Streets as central hubs for culture, art, community, and economic growth, emphasizing the need for targeted investment and attention.

The eight mentors selected for this program represent a wealth of experience, collectively bringing over a century of expertise in areas such as non-profit management, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, small business development, and the creation of inclusive communities. The mentors include Laura Barclay from Takoma Park, Alicia Calhoun from Elkton, Julie Della-Maria from Sykesville, Jenny Erhard from Bel Air, Vickie Grinder from Thurmont, Carmen Hilton from Brunswick, Melinda Kelleher from Cumberland, and Amanda Smit-Peters from Baltimore City. Their experience managing successful Main Street initiatives across the state will be instrumental in guiding the Aspiring tier communities.

Leading the Main Street Maryland Mentorship Program in partnership with Main Street Maryland is Julie Della-Maria, Executive Director and Chief DEI Officer for Downtown Sykesville Connection. Sykesville’s Main Street revitalization efforts, focused on economic growth, community engagement, and historic preservation, have garnered significant recognition, including two selections as a semifinalist for the Great American Main Street Award. This places Sykesville among the top eight accredited Main Street America programs nationwide, highlighting Della-Maria’s successful approach to downtown revitalization.

The Main Street Maryland program, established in 1998, operates as the official coordinating program for Maryland under the National Main Street Center. Housed within the DHCD, its primary objective is to strengthen Maryland’s downtown commercial districts through local investment and revitalization efforts. The program’s focus on adhering to national standards and fostering excellence in implementation aims to transform isolated successes into lasting, district-wide improvements that enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute to measurable economic and community development outcomes.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

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