Governor Shapiro Celebrates Lewistown's New Main Street Designation

July 25, 2025 July 25, 2025

Editorial Staff

Lewistown Celebrates New Main Street Designation

In a significant boost to the local community, Governor Josh Shapiro and DCED Secretary Rick Siger recently visited Lewistown to celebrate its new status under the Main Street Matters program. This initiative is a crucial element of the Governor's $20 million plan aimed at revitalizing communities and bolstering small businesses throughout Pennsylvania.

Thanks to this designation, Downtown Lewistown, Inc. is poised to apply for up to $225,000 in grants. The funding will aid a five-year plan to remove blight, enhance public spaces, and foster new development. This initiative follows the acquisition of the former Bon-Ton building by Geisinger, which plans to transform it into a nursing school, further propelling Lewistown's growth.

The Main Street Matters program, funded through Governor Shapiro's 2024-25 bipartisan budget, was initiated last year as part of the state's 10-year Economic Development Strategy. It aims to develop communities across Pennsylvania by supporting local businesses and enhancing urban areas.

Community Reactions

Julie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of PA Downtown Center, commented: “The work we do is about creating real places — where kids can grow up, seniors can grow old, and families can put down roots. We’re building communities that are as authentic in their stories and character as they are in their architecture.”

Mifflin County Commissioner Kevin Kodish stated, “Main Street Matters is an important addition to our community, and we are truly humbled and grateful for this recognition. With both the Main Street and Enterprise Zone designations now in place, Lewistown and Mifflin County are uniquely positioned for growth and revitalization.”

Ryan Cherry, owner of East End Coffee Co, expressed his optimism: “When Lillah and I opened East End in 2017, we wanted to create more than just a coffee shop — we wanted to invest in our community and reimagine what downtown Lewistown could be. Lewistown has so much potential, and I’m proud that the state sees that too and is stepping up to support our downtown’s growth.”