State and local officials gathered on Lincoln Square this morning to announce that Gettysburg has been officially redesignated as a Pennsylvania Main Street community, a milestone that will strengthen downtown revitalization while preserving the borough’s historic character.
The designation was announced by Rick Siger, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, who described main streets as the social and economic hearts of communities across the Commonwealth. He noted that, whether in large cities or small towns, main streets are places where people live, gather, and build businesses.
Siger said Gettysburg’s downtown occupies a unique position as both a nationally significant historic destination and a vibrant, lived-in community. While millions visit the nearby battlefields each year, he emphasized that Gettysburg is also a place where residents, entrepreneurs, and local businesses are shaping the future.
The designation makes Main Street Gettysburg one of just 12 communities statewide to receive Main Street status this year. The recognition opens access to priority funding opportunities, tax credits, technical assistance, and participation in a statewide network of Main Street communities.
The announcement builds on the state’s Main Street Matters initiative, launched under Gov. Josh Shapiro, which commits $20 million annually to support downtowns and commercial corridors across Pennsylvania. The program provides grants for projects such as façade improvements, business development, and infrastructure investments, with added flexibility for larger-scale revitalization efforts.
Jill Sellers, president of Main Street Gettysburg, said the designation represents both an investment in the borough’s future and a commitment to protecting its past. She said the organization’s five-year strategy focuses on improving walkability and accessibility downtown, strengthening neighborhoods, and preserving Gettysburg’s historic district. Key priorities include infrastructure investments along Baltimore Street and Lincoln Square, business development on Steinwehr Avenue, and neighborhood improvements.
Julie Fitzpatrick, executive director of the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, said her organization will work closely with Main Street Gettysburg to provide technical assistance, education, and resources for boards, volunteers, business owners, and developers. She emphasized that the Main Street model combines economic development with historic preservation, benefiting both residents and visitors.
Speakers described the designation as the result of collaboration among state agencies, local leaders, businesses, and community members, repeatedly noting that community and economic development succeed through partnership and shared vision.
The event concluded with a tour of local businesses and a call for residents and visitors to support locally owned businesses during the holiday season.
Photo caption: Create@48 co-owner Nicole Suski explains the restaurant’s offerings to Sellers and and Siger.