LABELLE — LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation (LDRC) has been designated as an Accredited Main Street America™ program for meeting rigorous performance standards. Each year, Main Street America and its partners announce the list of sccredited programs to recognize their exceptional commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach™.

“We are extremely proud to recognize this year’s 863 nationally Accredited Main Street America programs that have worked tirelessly to advance economic vitality and quality of life in their downtowns and commercial districts,” said Patrice Frey, president snf CEO of Main Street America. “During another incredibly challenging year, these programs demonstrated the power of the Main Street movement to respond to the needs of their communities. I am inspired by their steadfast leadership and innovative solutions to drive essential local recovery efforts, support small businesses, and nurture vibrant downtown districts.”

In 2021, Main Street America programs generated $5.76 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 6,601 net new businesses, generated 30,402 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,595 historic buildings, and leveraged 1,427,729 volunteer hours. On average, for every dollar that a Main Street program spent to support their operations, it generated $19.34 of new investment back into Main Street communities.

The LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation’s performance is annually evaluated by Florida Main Street, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs that meet rigorous national performance standards. Evaluation criteria determines the communities that are building meaningful and sustainable revitalization programs and include standards such as, fostering strong public-private partnerships, supporting small and locally owned businesses, and actively preserving historic places, spaces, and cultural assets.

“Congratulations to the Labelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation on their 2022 accreditation! Strong, thriving communities just don’t happen. They need effective leaders at all levels, from a broad base of committed volunteers to dedicated professional staff offering their time, talents, and passion to achieve a common vision and commitment to revitalizing their downtown and commercial cores. Community accreditation is a key component of the participation in Main Street America. The process helps communities review their progress, recognize accomplishments, and outlines recommendations for continued growth and positive impact. Communities are evaluated across a set of ten standards to highlight strengths, understand specific challenges involved with local revitalization, and identify strategies and resources needed to continue to progress and succeed in their efforts.

During 2021, LDRC raised approximately $123,000 in gross profits through fundraising events, individual donors, and grants. As part of our beautification program, LDRC completed the rehabilitation of the 1953 fire truck “Old Betsy” located on the corner of Washington Avenue and Bridge Street, contributed to electrical upgrades on the gazebo at Barron Park, and started the process of renovations to Barron Park including seven new tables and pavilions.

"If you are passionate about preserving the character and charm of downtown Labelle while growing its economic vitality, come join us at the LDRC!” said Sarah Catala, LDRC president.