As Gettysburg prepares to mark America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, our community is focused on more than celebration. This moment calls for long-term investment—projects that strengthen our historic district, support local families and businesses, and leave a lasting legacy well beyond a single year. In 2026, that means leaving a legacy for this once-in-a-generation commemoration.
That work is guided by our 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, built on years of community input and long-range revitalization goals. The plan is anchored by three transformation strategies designed to meet the realities of a historic town that is home to families, students, and employees, serves millions of visitors, and depends on a vibrant, resilient business district.
The first strategy focuses on creating a welcoming, walkable, and accessible historic district—centered on two legacy projects. The Gettysburg Welcome Center will provide a centrally located hub for visitor information and public restrooms, addressing a long-standing need and setting a new standard for the visitor experience. The Baltimore Street Project (Gettysburg Gateway Connectivity Project) will redesign the corridor from Lincoln Square to the National Cemetery, investing in underground infrastructure, ADA access, sidewalks, traffic calming, and public gathering spaces. These projects will improve how Gettysburg is experienced well beyond the 250th, leaving a firm foundation for Gettysburg’s next generation of stewards.
The second strategy targets reinvestment in Steinwehr Avenue as a tourism and business destination. Renewing the Steinwehr Avenue Business Improvement District will continue collective support for marketing, beautification, and events. New attractions, such as Charters of Freedom Park, will offer interpretation, visitor engagement, and public gathering space. This work will increase the 250th momentum into a year-round economy that will sustain the district going forward.
The third strategy centers on the Olde Getty Place neighborhood, connecting its deep history to a stronger future. Planned investments include lighting, pedestrian and bicycle access, public art, and heritage-based tours. Completing segments of the Gettysburg Inner Loop trail, improving streetscapes, and organizing regular neighborhood cleanups will strengthen livability and leave lasting community assets. Preservation efforts led by the Lincoln Cemetery Project Association and the Adams County Historical Society, including development of the Hopkins House as our first Black History Museum, will anchor the neighborhood’s identity.
These three strategies form a blueprint that focuses beyond a one-time celebration, but instead focuses on building a legacy. Watch for announcements on legacy projects in the months ahead.
Get ready to experience Gettysburg in 2026 and to help shape its future! Celebrate America’s 250th by volunteering, sponsoring, and investing. The legacy we build together will serve our community for generations to come.
Invest in our legacy!
Please contact me anytime: (717) 337-3491, or jsellers@mainstreetgettysburg.org. www.mainstreetgettysburg.org/donate.
Jill Sellers is President and Chief Executive Officer of Main Street Gettysburg. She lives in Adams County with her husband Shane, and their two sons, Joshua (20) and Caleb (17).