The City Ave District, spanning Philadelphia and Bala Cynwyd, has been awarded a multi-county Main Street designation, unlocking up to $225,000 in grant funding.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 state budget secures $20 million for the Main Street Matters program to enhance downtown revitalization efforts.
Bala Cynwyd, PA
Recently, DCED Secretary Rick Siger announced the awarding of a Main Street designation to the City Ave District, which traverses Bala Cynwyd and Philadelphia, under the Main Street Matters initiative. Governor Josh Shapiro initiated this program in 2024, reinforcing it with an additional $20 million in the 2025-26 state budget. This program is designed to equip downtown districts with the necessary resources to cultivate thriving and dynamic communities.
The City Ave District’s new designation permits it to seek up to $225,000 in financial aid and complimentary technical support to advance its approved five-year plan. This plan zeroes in on three key areas tied to City Avenue: Bala Avenue in Montgomery County, along with 54th Street by Saint Joseph’s University and 63rd Street near the Overbrook Train Station, both located in Philadelphia. The strategy emphasizes increasing walkability, enticing new retail and dining establishments, boosting greenspaces, introducing public art, and repurposing unused properties.
During a visit to Montgomery County, Secretary Siger explored the Bala Avenue segment and engaged with three local enterprises: Details Lighting, Walls and Windows, and Brielle & Co. Salon.
Secretary Siger remarked, “This Main Street designation for the City Ave District will create new vibrancy that supports the local economy, improving quality of life and creating real opportunities for residents.” He emphasized that main streets and small businesses form the foundation of the economy, and the Shapiro Administration is devoted to offering communities the tools to help these vital regions achieve their utmost potential. This commitment is reflected in the additional funding secured in the 2025-26 state budget.
The Main Street Matters program is a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s decade-long Economic Development Strategy to rejuvenate downtowns, back small businesses, and fortify local economies.
Senator Vincent Hughes, Senate Democratic Appropriations Chair, expressed pride in City Avenue’s recognition and investment through the Main Street Matters program, seeing it as a catalyst for the area to reach its full potential. Senator Amanda Cappelletti highlighted the district’s position as a vibrant hub between Philadelphia and Lower Merion Township. Representative Mary Jo Daley emphasized the safety and quality-of-life benefits for residents, while Representative Morgan Cephas appreciated the focus on local business corridors. Representative G. Roni Green noted the strategic investment in these areas to bolster the local economy.
Bryan Fenstermaker, President and CEO of City Ave District, said, “Main Streets are the heart of local communities. They are where neighbors connect, where small businesses thrive, and where the character of a place truly comes to life.” He expressed gratitude for the support from the Shapiro Administration and Pennsylvania Downtown Center.
Karen Fegely, Acting Commerce Director, City of Philadelphia, noted the alignment of the Main Street Matters program with the city’s vision of becoming the safest, cleanest, and greenest city, highlighting the unique position of City Ave District as the first Business Improvement District to span two municipalities and counties.
Julie Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, emphasized the Main Street Approach as an ideal way to support neighborhood districts and commercial corridors, aiming for sustainable economic development and enhanced quality of life.
Neil Makhija, Chair of the Montgomery County Commissioners, praised the collaboration between Montgomery County and Philadelphia, emphasizing the benefits of investments in the corridor for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.
The Main Street Matters program received over 229 applications, requesting more than $68 million, illustrating the robust demand for strategic investments in Pennsylvania’s main streets. Funding is available for various grants, including community planning, façade, business improvement, district development, and accessible housing grants.
Unleashing Pennsylvania’s Economic Potential
- Governor Shapiro has increased Pennsylvania’s competitiveness, attracting nearly $32.5 billion in private-sector investment and creating over 18,000 jobs. This includes Amazon’s significant $20 billion investment for new AI and cloud computing campuses.
- Shapiro’s administration prioritizes economic competitiveness and government efficiency, with the state’s first comprehensive economic development strategy in nearly two decades, reducing permit backlogs, and investing $550 million to prepare sites for business expansion, strengthen main streets, and support small businesses.
- The Governor’s 2025-26 budget aims to further progress on permitting reform, support key agency staff, and invest in main streets across Pennsylvania.
For further details about the Main Street Matters program and the Department of Community and Economic Development, visit the DCED website. Stay informed with agency news on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
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