Cherryville’s Main Street Program Scores Eighth Consecutive National Accreditation
Main Street America Recognizes Program for High Quality
(Cherryville) For the eighth year in a row, Cherryville’s Main Street Program (CMSP) has been recognized by Main Street America as one of North Carolina’s top tier programs. Only about half of eligible programs win the coveted designation.
Once again, Cherryville’s program met rigorous standards including: maintaining a strong organizational structure, maintaining public and private partnerships, tracking progress, and preserving historic buildings.
The designation comes just weeks after the grand reopening of Cherryville’s Main Street and in the midst of tremendous progress in revitalizing multiple buildings in the city’s Central Business District.
“We owe this honor and our progress to our volunteers, city leaders, and entrepreneurs,” said David Day Cherryville’s Downtown Director. “For years, they’ve worked tirelessly together to revitalize our downtown.”
“At any one time, we have about 35 community volunteers working on our team. They do a great job,” continued Day.
Cherryville city manager Brain Dalton also praised the detailed work of the CMSP team. “It’s a tribute to the many volunteers and leaders, past and present, that we’ve won this designation again,” said Dalton.
Cherryville Mayor H.L. Beam looked to the future in praising the work of the CMSP.
“As we knew we would from the beginning, we’re seeing a total transformation,” said Beam. “Our new downtown will be a huge draw for even more business. Future generations will benefit from what we’re accomplishing.”
Donna Beringer, chair of the Cherryville Main Street Program, also praised the program’s supporters. “Our whole community can take pride in this designation,” said Beringer. “It reflects hundreds of hours of work from the city, business owners, and citizens alike.”
Interim President & CEO of Main Street America Hannah White praised the impact that Main Street programs have nationwide. “The increase in the size and impact of our network speaks volumes to the power of the Main Street movement to respond to the needs of local communities and drive innovative solutions,” said White”
Since 1980, N.C. Main Street programs have leveraged $4.52 billion in private and public investment.