Buena Vista, VA – Main Street Buena Vista is joining the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) first-ever Mobilizing Main Street Program cohort-based program. This two-year program will provide the framework for targeted organizational development support to Exploring Main Street (EMS) communities interested in pursuing Advancing Virginia Main Street (VMS) designation and Main Street America accredited status.

“It’s been truly captivating to see how much MSBV accomplished in its first year: fostering an environment of positivity and collaboration, new events, art installations, downtown benches & planters, regular convening of business owners, promoting Buena Vista to the entire region like never before, and more.,” said Jamie Goodin, interim Executive Director of MSBV. “What’s even more awesome is that MSBV is but one of many amazing initiatives currently creating a far more #VibrantBV. This DHCD distinction for MSBV will help improve our skills and sustainability to help create an even more exciting 2023.”

Main Street Buena Vista will work with DHCD staff to bolster their community for economic opportunity. The cohort will develop individualized work plans and implementation of program benchmarks and will assist with market analysis, design assessments, grant management, and other essential tools for impactful success. This accelerated program is funded by the Virginia Main Street (VMS) Program.

“The Virginia Main Street program has been transforming communities for over 35 years, and it continues to be critical to economic development, small business growth and job creation across the Commonwealth,” said DHCD Director Bryan Horn. “This new program will foster local and ongoing community development efforts while offering targeted support to participating organizations to ensure their future success in the Virginia Main Street program.”

For more information, visit dhcd.virginia.gov/vms.