LEWISTOWN — “The recent announcement of $623,263 in Main Street Matters funding will be utilized to upgrade program spaces for the Mifflin County Historical Society, Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau as part of phase 3 rehabilitation of the landmark Historic Courthouse on Monument Square” said Rob Postal, Chairman of the Mifflin County Commissioners. “These funds provided through the PA Department of Community & Economic Development are a crucial part for continuing renovation of the iconic building” he added. “The Main Street Matters Program is an essential part of the local development effort with designation contributing greatly to success in securing these dollars”, said Terry Foster, President, Downtown Lewistown, Inc.

Executive Director of the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce Rhonda Kelley said that “This grant represents a tremendous opportunity for investment in the future of our local business community. By creating fully furnished, modular shared workspaces that are accessible, flexible, and collaborative, we are opening the door for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, remote workers, and organizations of all sizes to connect and grow. These spaces will provide opportunities to meet with clients, host workshops and trainings, collaborate with supporting agencies, and foster innovation in a professional environment that is welcoming and wheelchair accessible to all”. Our goal is to create a resource that removes barriers, encourages partnership, and strengthens economic development throughout our region.” Jenny Landis, Executive Director of the Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau added that “Creating spaces in the Historic Courthouse for meetings will make our town appealing for small to medium size conferences, drawing people in from across the state. Maintaining and using our historic buildings will also show visitors that we not only value our history but can create ways to bring the same buildings into the present and use them effectively”.

Forest Fisher, president of the Mifflin County Historical Society remarked that “As the Mifflin County Historical Society’s genealogical activities ever expand, increased appropriate spaces can be utilized by researchers and visitors alike. The historic nature of the building lends credence and the aura of history during consultations with patrons and presentations of finished family trees. Descendants receiving results of genealogical research have commented on the impressive nature of the building. The improved and expanded conference areas greatly facilitate these interactions”.

“These grants are very competitive and the projects that are funded preserve our history while improving the quality of life for local communities,” said Kerry Benninghoff, Representative of the 171st Legislative District. “The Main Street Matters program provides unique opportunities to Downtown Lewistown to revitalize the Historic Courthouse on Monument Square and partner in their mission to strengthen and enhance the vitality of the downtown and surrounding neighborhoods”, said Senator Judy Ward. “This funding addresses the needs of our downtown communities by maintaining our historical buildings and preserving their history for all to enjoy,” she added.

DCED received more than 220 applications requesting over $68 million with 56 projects selected totaling $17.2 million in project awards. “Governor Shapiro understands that main streets are often a vital corridor for communities to thrive and grow”, said DCED Secretary Siger. “This funding helps downtowns across Pennsylvania increase economic opportunities while preserving their heritage like in Lewistown. The Shapiro administration is committed to making investments that strengthen local economies, grow communities, and support businesses.”

Jim Zubler, Downtown Lewistown Inc. executive director remarked “It is great to be able to work with our county partners to secure significant funds for continued Courthouse renovations.” “Main Street Matters Designation for the Borough is key, prioritizing state investment tied to our downtown transformational strategy. We anticipate further improvements incentivized by these funds in the future through the designation.” Zubler also credited support from municipalities and generous personal and private pledge contributions from business, industry, and individuals, providing the local capacity to leverage significant investment from the state resulting in impactful improvements. He also thanked Pennsylvania State Representatives Kerry Benninghoff and David Rowe along with that of Senator Judy Ward advocating to secure both the designation and these competitive dollars for the County. He thanked the Shapiro Administration and Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development for their positive review of the proposal and support for the project.