Kansas Main Street 

The Kansas Main Street Program is administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce to support the revitalization and preservation of downtown districts across Kansas. Initially launched in the late 1970s as a pilot program and formally active in Kansas from 1985 to 2012, it generated over $600 million in redevelopment, resulting in the establishment or expansion of 3,800 small businesses and the creation of over 8,600 jobs. After its return in 2020, the program continues to equip both returning and new communities with the necessary resources and tools to rejuvenate their historic commercial centers. The program follows the Main Street Approach, focusing on comprehensive strategies for economic development and community transformation. Participating communities work towards enhancing their quality of life through community-driven planning and action. The program emphasizes public-private partnerships, the employment of professional local directors, and a commitment to historic preservation in their downtown districts. To become a Designated Kansas Main Street community, applicants must participate in a competitive annual application process. This includes mandatory attendance at an application workshop and successful evaluation by a Review Team. Applicants must show strong local support, financial capability to fund a professional director and the program itself, and a vibrant mix of downtown businesses. There must also be a clear commitment to historic preservation within the proposed program area. Designated communities benefit from comprehensive technical assistance, strategic planning training, capacity building, and organizational development. These communities gain access to design services for restoration and infill projects, statewide quarterly training sessions, national and state grant funds when available, and membership in the Main Street America network. They also receive at least one paid registration to attend the national Main Street America conference. Additional tiers of involvement include Accredited and Affiliate Communities. Accreditation is available to communities with at least three years of designated status and recognizes exceptional achievement in economic and historical revitalization. Affiliate communities, which also go through a competitive application process, have access to KMS and Main Street America support services and grants, without associated fees. Contact for the program is via email at kansasmainstreet@ks.gov or phone at 785-230-6404. While specific dates for application openings and deadlines are not listed, interested communities are encouraged to contact the program directly to learn more about becoming a Designated Kansas Main Street Community.