Governor Shapiro's Economic Initiatives: Main Street Matters Program

Pittston's Transformation Highlights Pennsylvania's Commitment to Economic Growth

Governor Josh Shapiro has prioritized Pennsylvania's economic advancement since taking office, securing a $20 million allocation in the 2024-25 budget to establish the Main Street Matters initiative aimed at supporting small businesses and commercial areas.

The Shapiro Administration remains dedicated to strategic investments that enhance community strength and foster growth opportunities for families and businesses throughout Pennsylvania.

Pittston, PA – Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger, alongside Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo and other dignitaries, showcased the Shapiro Administration's dedication to revitalizing Pennsylvania's downtowns and small enterprises during a visit to the rejuvenated city of Pittston in Luzerne County.

Governor Shapiro has consistently driven economic development, creating Pennsylvania's first Economic Development Strategy in two decades and achieving significant financial commitments to the state's economy, including a landmark $20 million investment for the Main Street Matters program. This initiative is designed to bolster downtowns, main streets, and neighboring areas across Pennsylvania.

"The remarkable revitalization in Pittston underscores the importance of vibrant downtowns in attracting residents, tourists, and businesses, ensuring local economies thrive," stated Secretary Rick Siger. "Main Streets are the backbone of our economy. That's why there's strong bipartisan support for the new Main Street Matters program, which equips communities with the resources to enhance their quality of life and improve main streets and business districts."

Senator Marty Flynn noted, "Real progress begins with dedication and collaboration, and that's precisely what these projects embody. They lay the groundwork for family growth and community prosperity."

Representative Jim Haddock expressed gratitude for state support, saying, "The support from Governor Shapiro and DCED Secretary Rick Siger is invaluable as we see state funds effectively utilized in Pittston. The projects we toured today exemplify what's possible when state government, local government, and private businesses collaborate. Thanks to Mayor Lombardo's innovative leadership, these projects promise to become iconic community fixtures."

The Shapiro Administration has allocated $3 million to various downtown revitalization projects in Pittston. During his visit, Secretary Siger explored several sites, including the Kevin Powers Accessible Playground, the Slope Amphitheatre, Pittston Memorial Library, the Art Loop Trail, the Emergency Services Facility, the Market & Main/New American Theater project, a future retail/residential development, and the thriving Waterfront Warehouse retail/residential loft project.

Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo stated, "Over the past decade, Pittston has witnessed unprecedented downtown and neighborhood revitalization. Our partnership with Governor Shapiro's office and DCED has been crucial to this process. Collaborative strategies like Main Street Matters are equipping localities with the tools for economic vitality."

Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania is positioning itself as an innovation and economic development leader, striving to create opportunities for all its residents. Through initiatives like Main Street Matters and other economic successes, such as:

  • Securing $500 million to expand the PA SITES program, transforming state sites into shovel-ready locations for businesses, building on a pilot program that granted $10.6 million to seven projects.
  • Boosting small, minority-owned businesses with a $20 million investment for the Historically Disadvantaged Business Program in both his first and second budgets.
  • Launching Pennsylvania’s new tourism brand “Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway”, with $15 million in state funding to encourage travel and visitation.
  • Unveiling a historic $62 million plan to revitalize Downtown Pittsburgh, aiming to stimulate nearly $600 million in investments and generate over 3,000 jobs, transforming the area into a hub of economic activity and culture.

Governor Shapiro: Two Years of Progress

As Governor Shapiro reaches the two-year mark, his Administration remains focused on fostering innovation, economic growth, and community support. The ongoing commitment to strengthening the state's economy is setting the stage for Pennsylvania to emerge as a global leader in economic development, unlocking new opportunities for its residents.

Explore Governor Shapiro’s Accomplishments website for an interactive midterm report and download a detailed PDF overview of accomplishments.

For further details on Main Street Matters or the Department of Community and Economic Development, visit the DCED website. Stay informed about agency news on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.