Why Downtown Revitalization Matters in Cumberland County
Across Cumberland County, downtowns and neighborhood business districts are vital to the region’s economy, identity, and quality of life. From historic borough centers to growing commercial corridors, these areas create opportunities for small businesses to thrive, attract visitors and investment, support local jobs, and strengthen community pride.
When downtowns are healthy and active, the benefits extend far beyond Main Street. Revitalization efforts help expand the local tax base, attract private investment, rehabilitate vacant and underutilized buildings, support housing growth, and make better use of existing infrastructure. Strong downtowns also help preserve the character and history that make Cumberland County’s communities unique while creating vibrant gathering places for residents and visitors alike.
As Cumberland County continues to grow, supporting downtown revitalization and small-business development is essential to maintaining strong local communities and a resilient regional economy. Explore resources to help strengthen downtowns and connect with funding and financing programs that bring projects to life.
CAEDC Grant and Loan Programs
CAEDC Funding & Financing Programs Presentation
PA Council on the Arts
Sarah Merritt, Senior Director of Community Development
phone: 717-787-1251
email: skmerritt@pa.gov
website: pa.gov/creative-industries
Pennsylvania Creative Industries, powered by the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA), offers funding support to organizations and individuals across the commonwealth through a variety of programs.
Pennsylvania Creative Industries Presentation
Cumberland County Housing & Redevelopment Authorities
Mikayla Kitchen, Assistant Director of the Redevelopment Authority
phone: 717-249-0789 x172
email: mkitchen@cchra.com
website: https://cchra.com/program/streetview-grant-program/
Streetview Grant and Loan Program assists building owners in maintaining their building exteriors within the Business, Historic, and Downtown areas.
Streetview Grant and Loan Programs Presentation
PA Department of Community & Economic Development
Christie Yerger, Director of the Center for Community Enhancement
phone: 717-720-7409
email: cyerger@pa.gov
website: https://dced.pa.gov/programs/main-street-matters/
Main Street Matters Program funding supports revitalization efforts in planning, business support, aesthetic improvements, and the increase of safety and security.
Main Street Matters Program Presentation
Stephen Schelander, Program Lead
phone: 717-720-7331
email: sschelande@pa.gov
website: https://dced.pa.gov/programs/multimodal-transportation-fund/
Multimodal Transportation Fund supports the development, rehabilitation, and enhancement of transportation assets in existing communities, including streetscape, lighting, sidewalk enhancements, pedestrian safety, connectivity of transportation assets, and transit-oriented development.
Multimodal Transportation Fund Presentation
U.S. Small Business Administration
Lynn Loaiza, Lender Relations Specialist
phone: 610-382-3989
email: lynn.loaiza@sba.gov
Kim Stout, Economic Development and Lender Relations Specialist
phone: 202-431-4906
email: kimberly.stout@sba.gov
website: www.sba.gov/funding-programs
The SBA helps small businesses get funding by setting guidelines for loans and reducing lender risk. SBA-backed loans make it easier for small businesses to get the funding they need.
