Nevada’s strategy to revitalize local economies and breathe new life into historic downtowns continues to deliver results. Main Street Gardnerville, Downtown Reno Partnership, and Tonopah Main Street have each received the prestigious National Main Street Accreditation from Main Street America, underscoring their excellence in community-driven economic development.
Main Street America, a leading national nonprofit supporting downtown revitalization, awarded the accreditation based on performance in six core areas of the Main Street Approach. These include strong community engagement, inclusive leadership, strategy-driven programming, and sustainable funding models.
“This is an exceptional achievement,” said Shari Davis, Director of the Rural Economic and Community Development division at the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED). “It reflects the commitment of these organizations to revitalizing their communities and building stronger local economies.”
(Photo source: Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development)
Gardnerville retains its status from previous years, while Tonopah and Downtown Reno Partnership join the ranks for the first time. Davis added, “All three organizations have worked to create positive change in their communities, and their dedication and success have been recognized on a national level.”
The recognition comes as Nevada’s Main Street programs demonstrate measurable economic impact. In 2024 alone, 27 organizations operating across 32 communities funneled over $662,000 in funding into 23 revitalization projects in 16 towns. These efforts supported the creation of 382 full-time and 149 part-time jobs, along with 124 new businesses. In addition, communities undertook 66 rehabilitation projects and 10 public improvement initiatives, resulting in more than $11 million in combined public and private investment.
With this latest round of accreditations, Nevada strengthens its position as a state investing deeply in grassroots economic revitalization, building communities from the ground up while preserving local heritage and fostering long-term resilience.
