HARRISBURG, PA — Lt. Gov. Austin Davis and Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary Rick Siger toured small businesses in Etna on Wednesday to highlight the Shapiro-Davis administration’s continued investment in downtown revitalization, as Pennsylvania expands a grant program that has directed more than $34 million to 137 projects since 2024.
The visit comes after Gov. Josh Shapiro secured an additional $20 million for the Main Street Matters program in the 2026-27 state budget, extending support for community revitalization efforts aimed at strengthening local business districts and local economies. Etna recently received a $153,421 Main Street Matters grant, and Davis and Siger visited Cop Out Pierogies, Pollak’s Candies and CoStar Brewing during the tour.
Main Street Matters, administered by DCED, funds projects including planning initiatives, façade improvements, business assistance, accessible housing programs and district development grants. Since its launch, the program has supported projects intended to improve commercial corridors and attract private investment.
“Our main streets aren’t just a window into Pennsylvania’s past — they’re a window into our future,” Davis stated. “By investing in stronger infrastructure, and safer and easier parking options, we’re helping businesses thrive, strengthening our local economy, and creating vibrant communities for all Pennsylvanians.”
Siger framed the additional funding as a way for communities to pursue investments that support existing businesses while attracting new employers.
“The $20 million secured by Governor Shapiro in the 2026-27 budget for the Main Street Matters program will continue to help communities make strategic investments that attract new businesses, support existing employers, and create places where people want to live, work, and visit,” Siger stated.
DCED is accepting applications for the latest round of Main Street Matters funding through Aug. 31. Eligible applicants include municipalities, redevelopment and housing authorities, nonprofit organizations, community development corporations, and business improvement districts.
The department reported that the most recent funding round awarded more than $17.2 million to 56 community projects. Officials said the program received more than 220 applications requesting more than $68 million, which they described as evidence of continued interest in downtown revitalization funding.
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