Oklahoma City, January 13, 2026
The Oklahoma Department of Commerce has allocated $1,300,241 to 12 communities through the Certified Main Street Incentive Program. This initiative is set to revitalize downtown areas by funding projects focused on cultural, recreational, and economic improvements. Communities will receive up to 50% funding for various projects including facade renovations, art installations, and infrastructure upgrades, all aimed at enhancing visitor attraction and improving residents’ quality of life.
Oklahoma City, OK – The Oklahoma Department of Commerce has announced the allocation of $1,300,241 to 12 communities through the 2026 Certified Main Street Incentive Program. This initiative seeks to revitalize downtown areas across the state by funding projects designed to enhance cultural, recreational, and economic opportunities within communities.
The funding is earmarked for a range of improvements, such as facade renovations, landscaping, safety enhancements, and infrastructure upgrades. Each of the awarded projects must be matched by local community funds, with the state covering up to 50% of the total project costs. The maximum awards available are $150,000 for Fully Designated Level Main Street programs, $100,000 for Select Level programs, and $50,000 for Network Level programs.
Eligible projects for this funding include investments in building facades, beautification efforts like landscaping, safety improvements such as enhanced lighting and sidewalks, distinctive art installations, and infrastructure enhancements supporting downtown residences and real estate access. Communities must be participants in the Oklahoma Main Street Program, which focuses on revitalizing and sustaining commercial districts, fostering economic development, and preserving the unique cultural heritage of Oklahoma’s towns and cities.
The Certified Main Street Incentive Program forms part of the broader efforts by the state to support community development and drive economic growth. By investing in these projects, Oklahoma aims to attract more visitors, generate additional sales tax revenue, and ultimately improve the quality of life for residents.
Key Features of the Certified Main Street Incentive Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding Amount | $1,300,241 allocated to 12 communities in 2026 |
| Eligible Projects | Facade renovations, landscaping, safety enhancements, art installations, infrastructure improvements |
| Funding Requirements | State covers up to 50% of project cost; maximum awards: $150,000 (Fully Designated), $100,000 (Select Level), $50,000 (Network Level) |
| Eligibility | Communities must be part of the Oklahoma Main Street Program |
| Program Goals | Revitalize downtown areas, enhance cultural and economic opportunities, attract visitors, generate sales tax revenue, improve residents’ quality of life |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Certified Main Street Incentive Program?
The Certified Main Street Incentive Program is an initiative by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce that provides funding to communities for projects aimed at revitalizing downtown areas and enhancing cultural, recreational, and economic opportunities.
How much funding has been allocated to Oklahoma communities?
A total of $1,300,241 has been allocated to 12 communities through the 2026 Certified Main Street Incentive Program.
What types of projects are eligible for funding?
Eligible projects include facade renovations, landscaping, safety enhancements like lighting and sidewalks, distinctive art installations, and infrastructure improvements that support downtown residences and real estate access.
What are the funding requirements for these projects?
Each project must be matched by local community funds, with the state covering up to 50% of the total project cost. The maximum award amounts are $150,000 for Fully Designated Level Main Street programs, $100,000 for Select Level programs, and $50,000 for Network Level programs.
Who is eligible to apply for this program?
Communities must be part of the Oklahoma Main Street Program, which focuses on sustaining and restoring vibrancy in commercial districts.
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