Pennsylvania’s older downtown areas and neighborhoods are home to generations of memories. With that proud past, however, come practical problems such as physical decay, increased vacancy rates and declining property values.

The Commonwealth has created two programs to address these issues:

• Main Street Program – Main Street grants are often used to enhance the business districts of Pennsylvania’s core communities with improvements to existing businesses, streetscape upgrades and other rehabilitation projects. These programs have made positive changes in many older downtown areas.
• Elm Street Program – The Elm Street Program was created to bolster the older historic neighborhoods located within walking distance from our revitalized Main Streets. Along with the physical changes they make to the properties, these grants also help create a positive image for the community.