Governor Shapiro Invests $20M in PA Main Streets to Boost Local Economies

Governor Shapiro's $20 Million Initiative to Revitalize Pennsylvania's Main Streets

In a significant move to bolster Pennsylvania's local economies and infrastructure, Governor Josh Shapiro has launched the Main Street Matters initiative, backed by a $20 million investment secured in the 2024-25 bipartisan budget. This initiative is set to transform 81 main street projects across the state, enhancing building façades, improving sidewalks and lighting, and supporting small businesses and affordable housing.

During a visit to Lancaster, PA, Governor Shapiro highlighted the initiative's impact, particularly as Pennsylvania's small businesses face potential challenges from new federal tariffs that could increase costs and market uncertainty. The Governor emphasized his administration's commitment to fostering thriving communities and supporting local economies, stating, “Every Main Street matters ― and I’ll continue bringing people together to invest in and improve our communities.”

 

 

In Lancaster County, more than $1.2 million is being invested to revitalize downtown areas and stimulate economic growth. As part of his visit, Governor Shapiro toured businesses along North Queen and King streets, including BellaBoo, Ric’s Bread, and Foxduck. The Governor also inspected Place Marie Mall, a historic property undergoing renovations, supported by a $100,000 grant from the Main Street Matters initiative.

Several other projects in Lancaster County have received funding, including:

• $823,917 to Community Basics for restoring the Three Center Square Apartments in East Donegal Township.
• $200,000 to the Lancaster Downtown Investment District for the “Light Up Lancaster” project.
• $100,000 to SACA Development Corporation for the Historic Howard Avenue Façade Improvement Program.
• $46,156 to the Borough of Ephrata for gateway signage improvements.

Accompanied by Lancaster Mayor Danene Sorace and other local leaders, Governor Shapiro discussed the initiative's role in driving economic development and revitalizing communities. Mayor Sorace remarked, “We know that in every community – whatever its name – main street matters.”

As federal tariffs pose new challenges, especially for businesses like BellaBoo that rely on imported goods, the Shapiro Administration remains focused on reducing costs and supporting local enterprises. Over the past two years, Governor Shapiro has taken steps to streamline regulations and invest in workforce development, securing $500 million in site development funding and generating $3.7 billion in private investment, creating thousands of new jobs across Pennsylvania.

The Main Street Matters initiative is part of the broader 10-year Economic Development Strategy, which aims to position Pennsylvania as a leader in economic growth and community revitalization. To learn more about the initiative and other economic development efforts, visit the Governor's Budget website.