Faribault Main Street is now an accredited Main Street America program after meeting rigorous performance standards set by the National Main Street Center.  Kelly Nygaard with the Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce currently coordinates the program.

According to a news release highlighting the accreditation from Main Street America it states, "Each year, the National Main Street Center announces the list of accredited Main Street America programs to to recognize their exemplary commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach."

Patrice Frey, President and CEO of the National Main Street Center says, "We are proud to acknowledge this year's nationally accredited Main Street America programs that have worked tirelessly to strengthen their communities.  These programs deserve recognition for generation impressive economic returns, preserving community character, and celebrating local history.  Main Street America Accredited communities are part of the powerful movement of changemakers, and in their dedication to improving quality of life in the places they call home is inspiring."

The news release goes on to say, "In 2018 alone, Main Street America programs generated $$4.93 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 5,310 net new businesses, generated 25,301 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 8,146 historic buildings, and clocked 2.2 million volunteer hours."

Nygaard says, "We're so lucky that our community is home to such a beautiful downtown district and with the help of great partnerships and volunteers, Faribault Main Street is proud to be part of some exciting projects in the historic district."

Cited by Main Street America in making their accreditation were signature events like the downtown Faribault Car Cruise Nights, Fall Festival and Chili Cookoff, Winterfest and the Faribault Flannel Formal.  The Micro Grant program in partnership with the Farbault Economic Development Authority, assisting entrepreneurs to open or expand their business into the district.

The news release states, "Faribault Main Street has pumped $23,000 into public art installations through a grant, is fabricating benches to be placed downtown, and partnered with the city of Faribault to design and install new banners."

Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism President/CEO Nort Johnson says, "Our Chamber's Main Street based program has provided a meaningful framework to organize multiple initiatives in our large Historic District.  We've had positive impact in a number of ways to preserve and enhance this wonderful community asset."

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