At the recent Sumner County Advisory Committee meeting, Stacy Davis, Executive Director of Sumner County Economic Development, announced that Sumner County has been selected to participate in a new pilot initiative that brings the proven strategies of the Kansas Main Street program to the county-wide level.
One of just three counties chosen for the pilot, Sumner County will have the opportunity to reinvest in its downtown districts, strengthen support for small businesses, and preserve the unique character of each community’s historic main street.
“This pilot program is a game-changer for our entire region,” said Davis. “We now have additional tools to bring professional-level revitalization strategies to communities large and small—whether it’s Argonia or Wellington, Conway Springs or Oxford. Every town with a main street stands to benefit.”
The Main Street program has a long history of success across the country. Launched in the late 1970s, it has grown to include thousands of communities in more than 40 states. The program promotes revitalization through a self-help, technical assistance model that focuses on preserving historic character while fostering economic growth.
In Kansas, the newly launched County-Wide Main Street Program, introduced by the Kansas Department of Commerce, expands the traditional Main Street approach by emphasizing regional collaboration and rural economic development.
“Over the next two years, Sumner County will receive hands-on support from Main Street consultants, marketing and architectural experts, and state staff to identify needs, engage stakeholders, and implement strategies for sustainable, community-driven revitalization,” Davis explained.
Planned activities include; downtown building assessments and façade improvement consultations, business retention and recruitment strategies tailored to rural communities, county-wide branding and tourism marketing support and training for local leaders, entrepreneurs, and volunteers.
Sumner County was selected through a competitive application process. Davis credits the county’s selection for its history of successful multi-city partnerships—such as its broadband expansion consortium—as well as a shared vision for inclusive growth.
“This is not just about beautifying buildings—it’s about breathing life into the heart of our communities,” said Davis. “It’s about creating places where people want to live, shop, invest, and come home to.”
Community members, business owners, and civic leaders will be invited to participate in kickoff meetings and planning workshops this fall.
For more information about the Kansas Main Street Program, visit KansasCommerce.gov/MainStreet.
