MAIN STREET BRENHAM NATIONALLY DESIGNATED AS 2025 ACCREDITED PROGRAM

  

Main Street Brenham has once again been designated as an Accredited Main Street America™ program. 

The national recognition comes from meeting performance standards set by Main Street America.  Programs are acknowledged for their commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization.   

Each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of designated programs, which are split into two tiers: Affiliate and Accredited, with the latter representing the highest level of achievement.

Erin Barnes, President and CEO of Main Street America, said the efforts of these 821 Accredited Main Street America programs “show what’s possible when engaged leaders work together to shape places that reflect the people they serve.”

Main Street Brenham’s performance was evaluated by its board of directors and program personnel in partnership with the Texas Historical Commission’s Texas Main Street Program, which works with Main Street America to ensure local programs meet the network’s national standards.  Accredited status is achieved by demonstrating strength across six core areas: community engagement, inclusive leadership, sustainable funding, strategic programming, economic development rooted in preservation, and clear, documented impact.

In 2024, Main Street Brenham raised nearly $50,000 to reinvest into the preservation and beautification of Brenham’s downtown district.  The program supported opening seven new businesses and adding 20 new jobs, as well as the rehabilitation of historic buildings through grants.  Over 250 volunteer hours were dedicated to revitalization efforts.

Main Street Brenham Manager Leigh Linden called the designation “a testament to the commitment of our volunteers and city leadership to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and economically thriving downtown.”  She said, “This accreditation demonstrates the importance of Main Street and its efforts to strengthen our community’s identity and economic vitality.”