For Immediate Release – September 9, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) has awarded the Fairfield Arts Commission a $5,000 Main Street Accelerator grant to increase its downtown Cultural District’s visibility and economic impact through new branding, digital signage, and community programming.

Fairfield’s Cultural District, designated by the State in 2025, encompasses a walkable downtown filled with historic buildings, premier live entertainment venues, annual community events, exhibitions, and creative businesses. During CMSC’s six-month Accelerator program, Fairfield’s team of economic development officials, Chamber of Commerce members, and leaders from local arts and culture institutions created a plan that includes logo development, an awareness survey, and new visual elements to help residents and visitors better identify and explore the district.

“While the Accelerator framework can be universally applied, it also allows communities to focus on their specific needs,” said Michelle McCabe, CMSC Executive Director. “The Fairfield team recognized they can take advantage of the downtown’s lively appeal and walkable design to highlight their many cultural attractions. Fairfield’s project shows how intentional branding and programming can bring a district to life, using arts and culture to drive economic activity in our downtowns.”

“The Fairfield team excelled at bringing together a variety of stakeholders to work on a common goal,” said Kristen Lopez, CMSC Senior Director of Programs. “They understood their community’s strengths, building on organizational structures already in place and utilizing their respective areas of expertise to promote the Cultural District. That kind of collaboration creates an energy residents and visitors can see and feel.”

Mark Barnhart, Fairfield Director of Community & Economic Development said of the Accelerator program, “It was a great learning experience for our team. It helped us develop an actionable plan and hold us accountable.  The Accelerator allowed us to move forward and actually implement some of the things that we had long been discussing, and the grant will allow us execute on that vision.”

“Thank you for helping us to accelerate business and the arts in our already vibrant downtown, especially as we continue to build our Cultural District,” added First Selectman Christine Vitale. “Fairfield Theatre Company has been the bedrock of our arts scene for the last 25 years, with SHU Theatre’s opening in 2019 adding so much to our exciting cultural community. Keeping Fairfield a desirable place to visit, do business and raise a family is an ongoing focus for us. We’re so excited for the next steps!”

Fairfield State Rep. Jennifer Leeper said, “I’ve been in this role as the legislative Main Street caucus co-chair since 2021 and it’s a real full circle moment to have us now be the recipient of the Main Street Accelerator program. When I first started Fairfield didn’t even have an arts commission, but Mark always had the vision for collaboration between our small businesses, our downtown, and community placemaking and the arts. It’s really exciting to now have a grant to help us further that work.”

About the Main Street Accelerator Program

Teams from Fairfield, Deep River, Torrington, Vernon and Westbook comprised CMSC’s 2026 Main Street Accelerator Cohort. During the six-month curriculum, Accelerator teams identify a local challenge and develop actionable solutions using the nationally recognized Four Point Approach to Main Street Management. Teams that complete the program are eligible for an implementation grant. The 2026 Accelerator program and grants are generously supported by Webster Bank.

Since 2024, CMSC has trained fifteen local teams from fourteen communities through the Accelerator program, granting $40,000 to implement small‑scale, high‑impact projects that strengthen Connecticut’s downtowns, with support from funding partners Webster Bank, Chelsea Groton Foundation and Thomaston Savings Bank.

You can find more information about CMSC and the Main Street Accelerator program on CMSC’s website.

About the Cover Photo: Main Street Accelerator team members Mark Barnhart, Fairfield Director of Community & Economic Development; Beverly Balaz, Fairfield Chamber of Commerce President; Mary Alice Limperopulos, Marketing & Business Development Manager, Fairfield Office of Community & Economic Development; and Charles MacDonald, Chair of the Fairfield Arts Commission are joined by Fairfield First Selectman Christine Vitale; State Rep. Jennifer Leeper, co-chair of the Legislature’s Main Street Working Group; and CMSC Executive Director Michelle McCabe; Senior Director of Programs Kristen Lopez; and CMSC Programs Manager Ani Chaghatzbanian. Photo taken by Christine Schilke for CMSC.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – August 27, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) has awarded the Town of Deep River a $5,000 Main Street Accelerator grant to support the launch and expansion of its new Main Street Lamppost Banner Program, an initiative designed to transform the downtown into a vibrant outdoor gallery celebrating local people, milestones, and traditions.

Deep River was one of five communities chosen for CMSC’s 2026 Main Street Accelerator Cohort, joining Fairfield, Torrington, Vernon, and Westbrook. As part of the six‑month program, Accelerator teams identify a local challenge and develop actionable solutions using the nationally recognized Four Point Approach to Main Street Management. Teams that complete the program are eligible for a $5,000 implementation grant. The 2026 Accelerator program and grants are generously supported by Webster Bank.

During the program, Deep River’s Main Street Visionaries team – a volunteer subcommittee of the town’s Economic Development Commission comprised of municipal economic development staff, planning and zoning officials, and a local business owner – focused on reshaping perceptions of the downtown through placemaking and visual identity. Their resulting project, the Main Street Lamppost Banner Program, uses existing lighting infrastructure to create an outdoor gallery with a rotating display of banners that highlight hometown heroes, community traditions, seasonal artwork, and historic moments.

As part of their Accelerator coursework, The Deep River Visionaries created an action plan, marketing materials, and a project budget. Since completing the program in June, the team has already installed thirty-two banners honoring local veterans and the town’s historic muster, beginning at Town Hall and expanding outward as new sponsors join the initiative. The inaugural installation also aligned with the town’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

“Our Accelerator program gives communities the support to turn ideas into meaningful action,” said Michelle McCabe, CMSC Executive Director. “The Deep River team embraced that opportunity wholeheartedly. Their banner program is a beautiful example of how storytelling, pride, and collaboration can strengthen a downtown’s identity and create lasting impact.”

“Deep River impressed us with how thoughtfully and proactively they approached their project, really focusing on engaging the community in both the short- and long-term,” said Kristen Lopez, CMSC Senior Director of Programs. “They built a framework that could be launched quickly, grow consistently, and incorporates sustainable funding. That kind of incremental strategic planning is exactly what helps downtowns thrive over time.”

“As a local business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how much energy this project has sparked,” said Sage Novak, Accelerator member and owner of Compass Rose and Anchor & Compass. “People stop to look at and talk about the banners. You can tell residents are proud, sponsors are excited, and visitors are noticing. This grant helps us keep that momentum going as we expand the program across the downtown.”

Launched in 2024, CMSC’s Main Street Accelerator program has trained fifteen local teams from fourteen communities to implement small‑scale, high‑impact projects that strengthen Connecticut’s downtowns. To date, CMSC and funding partners Webster Bank, Chelsea Groton Foundation and Thomaston Savings Bank have awarded $35,000 in grant funds to Accelerator teams.

You can find more information about CMSC and the Main Street Accelerator program on CMSC’s website.

About the Cover Photo: Pictured are Main Street Visionaries Team members Sage Novak, Dan Batt, Daniel Smith, and Zoe Chatfield; Deep River First Selectman Carol Doak-Jones; CT State Representative Renee LaMark Muir; Liberty Bank Deep River Branch Manager and Lamppost Sponsor Steve Rednak; Deep River Historical Society Member Rhonda Forristall; CMSC Senior Director of Programs Kristen Lopez and CMSC Programs Manager Ani Chaghatzbanian. Photo taken by Christine Schilke for CMSC.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – May 28, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – The Connecticut Main Street Center proudly announces the winners of its 2026 annual awards: Lauren Coakley Vincent, President + CEO, Bridgeport Special Services District (DSSD) is the recipient of the  Quentin Williams Downtown Hero Award and Elizabeth Donius, Executive Director, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance is the recipient of this year’s Founder’s Award. Both will be recognized at CMSC’s State of Main event on June 16^th in downtown Torrington.

Quentin Williams Downtown Hero Award:
Lauren Coakley Vincent, President + CEO, Bridgeport DSSD

Established in 2023, the Downtown Hero Award honors the legacy of the late State Representative Quentin “Q” Williams—a passionate advocate for Connecticut’s downtowns. The award recognizes leaders who put into practice his commitment to collaboration, inclusivity, and community-driven revitalization.

CMSC is honored to present the 2026 Downtown Hero Award to Lauren Coakley Vincent for her transformative leadership in Downtown Bridgeport. Through many initiatives, such as the delightfully inclusive Colorful Bridgeport content series, she has elevated local voices, supported small businesses, and created vibrant, welcoming experiences that celebrate the city’s diversity and creativity.

“Lauren represents everything this award was created to recognize,” said Michelle McCabe, CMSC Executive Director. “She leads with authenticity, builds genuine partnerships, and consistently ensures that community voices are not just heard—but centered—in the work. Lauren is both passionate about elevating Bridgeport’s downtown and compassionate about the residents who will be using and enjoying these spaces. She invites everyone to the table while ensuring forward progress continues—even when that work takes time.”

Reflecting on her work, Ms. Coakley Vincent is quick to credit Bridgeport’s deep well of talent and her many partners and collaborators: “The most enriching component of my work is that it is based in collaboration and partnership with the community members of Downtown Bridgeport. The single thing that makes me most proud is that everything Colorful Bridgeport produces is locally sourced and made in Bridgeport—from the artists and entrepreneurs to the print shop. Everything good here comes from within the community.”

Founder’s Award:
Elizabeth Donius, Executive Director, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance

The Founder’s Award recognizes individuals and organizations that champion a comprehensive, strategic approach to revitalizing historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts.

CMSC proudly names Lizzy Donius as the 2026 recipient for her outstanding leadership in Westville Village and her deep commitment to Main Street principles. As one of only three programs in the state to be accredited by the national Main Street America organization, Lizzy consistently demonstrates to communities around Connecticut what high performing main street managers can accomplish. 

“Lizzy exemplifies what it means to be a Main Street leader in today’s environment,” said McCabe. “She blends creativity with strategy, ensuring that Westville is not only vibrant today but positioned for long-term success. Her ability to cultivate partnerships, stay ahead of national best practices, and maintain Main Street America designation speaks to both her dedication and expertise. She has helped make Westville a model for how arts, culture, and community engagement can drive economic growth,” said Ms. McCabe.

When speaking about the many accomplishments achieved during her tenure, Ms. Donius acknowledges the role of community connection in making Westville a uniquely vibrant neighborhood: “Creativity and strong community spirit is Westville’s superpower, and it has also been its growth engine—attracting vintage shops, cafés, and arts-related businesses that have made Westville a destination. Our ongoing work with the New Haven Parking Authority and the City of New Haven to develop a Central Square reflects the critical role Westville plays in the civic life of our community.”

CMSC celebrates both honorees as leaders who embody the strength, innovation, and collaborative spirit driving Connecticut’s downtowns forward.

You can find more information about our award winners, CMSC, and our State of Main event on CMSC’s website.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – April 30, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Liberty Bank Foundation to support its Education & Training for Main Street Professionals, a six-month suite of programs designed to build the skills, capacity, and career pathways needed to sustain vibrant downtowns across Connecticut.

While downtowns serve as major economic engines and community gathering places, most municipalities lack the dedicated staff needed to manage them effectively. In many towns, the work of maintaining a thriving main street falls to volunteers or part‑time employees without access to specialized training or a sustainable organizational structure. The Liberty Bank Foundation grant addresses this challenge in communities statewide by providing opportunities for professional development and education on best practices in main street management.

CMSC Executive Director Michelle McCabe expressed gratitude for the Liberty Bank Foundation’s investment, noting that the program fills a critical gap. “Creating and maintaining a vibrant downtown is a full‑time job requiring professional expertise,” she said. “This grant allows us to build a workforce pipeline for the next generation of main street leaders—people who can support local businesses, strengthen community identity, and drive economic growth. Liberty Bank Foundation’s support ensures that more Connecticut communities can transition from volunteer‑led efforts to sustainable, professionally staffed organizations.”

The suite of programs combines webinars and an in-person workshop focused on building and funding a main street organization capable of supporting paid staff. Participants will learn best practices in economic development, community engagement, budgeting, and fund development. The curriculum responds directly to CMSC’s annual member survey, in which 90% of communities identified low capacity and funding challenges as a top concern.

“This program will ensure that local leaders have the skills and tools they need to create and sustain strong and vibrant downtowns,” said Liberty Bank President & CEO David W. Glidden, who also serves as President of the Liberty Bank Foundation. “This is important to both our community and the overall economy, and we are proud to support this initiative.

CMSC’s Programs staff will deliver the training, drawing on national best practices and real‑world experience supporting Connecticut’s downtowns. The program is expected to engage participants from communities across the state, with follow‑up evaluation to measure skills gained, new practices adopted, and progress toward establishing or strengthening local main street organizations.

“The Liberty Bank Foundation’s partnership helps us meet communities where they are and give them the tools to grow,” said Ms. McCabe. “This investment will help ensure that Connecticut’s downtowns—large and small—have the professional support they need to thrive.”

For more information on CMSC’s education and training, visit CMSC’s website.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – April 21, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) is pleased to announce the second phase of its partnership with the Northwest Hills Council of Governments (NHCOG) through the PROMISE Program, a regional initiative designed to strengthen main streets and village centers through a coordinated effort across twenty-one communities in Northwest Connecticut.

Through this partnership, CMSC will deliver a suite of technical assistance, data collection and analysis, tools, and community capacity‑building workshops that will help towns develop a clear vision for their village centers and strengthen the local expertise needed to bring that vision to life. CMSC will also create detailed inventories of the downtown areas using Ginkgo’s powerful data platform that maps a locality’s properties and uses, building conditions, and businesses, and provide hands‑on training for municipal leaders and volunteers on both the platform and how to use its data to inform future planning.

“Our smaller rural communities benefit from the same access to high‑quality downtown management tools as our larger cities and towns,” said CMSC Executive Director Michelle McCabe. “NHCOG is taking a thoughtful, phased approach to their regional revitalization, and we’re proud to help them deepen this work. By equipping local teams with data, training, and ongoing support, we’re helping these towns move from aspiration to implementation to reach their individual goals, while simultaneously tying into a larger regional strategy.”

The PROMISE Program is structured around four phases—Crawl, Walk, Run, and Race—allowing communities to progress at a pace that reflects their current main street management status and unique needs. CMSC completed Phase 1 of the partnership in 2025, conducting Readiness Assessments in seventeen towns and delivering introductory workshops. The new agreement between CMSC and NHCOG launches Phase 2, which focuses on building a strong foundation for implementation by:

• Creating GIS‑based downtown inventories that map key assets, businesses, parcels, and opportunities
• Conducting on‑the‑ground validation and visioning with local partners
• Training NHCOG staff and community stakeholders to maintain and use the Ginkgo platform
• Delivering customized workshops to strengthen local Main Street teams and expand regional downtown management capacity

“Main Streets are the heart of our communities, and CMSC’s expertise is invaluable as we work to support all twenty-one towns in our region,” said Rista Malanca, NHCOG’s Director of Community & Economic Development. “This partnership gives our municipalities access to nationally recognized best practices and the tools they need to plan effectively, secure funding, and ultimately implement transformative projects.”

PROMISE is designed with the predominantly rural character of the Northwest Hills in mind, where some communities have traditional Main Streets while others have village centers or emerging hubs of activity. Any area identified locally as a community’s “Main Street” will be eligible for services.

CMSC’s involvement will help NHCOG build a sustainable, region‑wide approach to downtown revitalization—one that strengthens local capacity, identifies shared opportunities, and supports long‑term economic resilience.

“Every community deserves a vibrant, welcoming downtown,” added Ms. McCabe. “CMSC has long supported individual communities in supporting that goal.  PROMISE offers a truly innovative approach to our work by seeking to connect the individual vision of each community within the overall strategy for a region. We’re excited to continue this partnership and help the Northwest Hills region build the tools, knowledge, and momentum needed to make that vision a reality.”

For more information on the PROMISE Program, visit CMSC’s website.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – March 30, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) has awarded the Westville Village Renaissance Alliance (WVRA) a $5,000 EmPOWER Main Street grant to launch a long‑anticipated Holiday Lighting Program that will brighten the neighborhood’s commercial district and strengthen its visual identity. The project will install festive lighting on 38 trees along Whalley Avenue and Fountain Street, creating a welcoming seasonal atmosphere and enhancing the district’s sense of place during the winter months.

The EmPOWER Main Street Fund—made possible through the partnership and generosity of United Illuminating (UI), Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), subsidiaries of Avangrid—supports projects that enhance downtown vibrancy through lighting, beautification, signage, and commercial district improvements.

CMSC Executive Director Michelle McCabe emphasized the importance of Westville’s leadership and the City of New Haven’s commitment to strengthening neighborhood commercial districts, noting that Westville is one of the neighborhoods CMSC is working on in partnership with the City as part of their Neighborhood Commercial District initiative. “Through the generosity of Avangrid and their associated companies, we were able to offer much‑needed support for the kinds of initiatives that are critically important to main streets and yet are hard to fund. WVRA is an excellent example of what happens when communities embrace main street management programs and Westville has seen the positive benefits of the hard work of Lizzy Donius and the Westville Renaissance Alliance.  We are thrilled, in partnership with Avangrid, to be able to create a way for you to move things forward in your neighborhood,” said Ms. McCabe.

UI Community and Government Relations Specialist Elizabeth Esposito echoed the enthusiasm for the project and its broader impact. “We are excited to partner with CT Main Street on an initiative like this and to be able to support WVRA on this project, specifically because it is lighting, but also because it’s so apparent to us that the vibrancy of our communities and our main streets is what makes Connecticut special and what makes our employees want to work here and stay here. It all plays into economic growth that not only can we power with literal energy, but also with some funding,” she said.

She also shared a personal connection to the neighborhood: “When I was moving back to Connecticut several years ago, I was specifically looking for a neighborhood with a main street program, and I moved to Westville because of it. It’s so great to see all the work that’s been done.”

CMSC Field Services Director Carl Rosa highlighted WVRA’s strong leadership and partnerships. “I know better than anyone all of the hard work Lizzy, her team and board have done in partnership with the City to make Westville wonderful,” he said. “The reason why we’re here is because WVRA is a Main Street America nationally accredited program and Lizzy is a professional Main Street manager who manages the Westville program to a T. We’re proud of that and we’re thrilled for you. I can’t wait to come back at the end of the year and see the lighting and everything that happens around the holidays.”

WVRA Executive Director Lizzy Donius expressed deep gratitude for the support and collaboration behind the project. “This really means a lot to us,” she said. “I’m so grateful for all the support of CMSC as I try to do the on-the-ground work; it’s been an incredible place for me to go for support and education.” She also expressed appreciation to the City for their support and collaboration, in particular the Economic Development and Traffic & Parking departments, and was especially pleased with Avangrid’s participation as project funder. “We’ve been wanting to do this holiday infrastructure for a long time, and it is really difficult to make room in an operating budget for a project that requires a one-time investment. This is the money that will allow us to do that, so I really appreciate it.”

Westville resident and longtime WVRA board member Lisa Brandes spoke to the project’s broader cultural and economic significance. “I’m now studying tourism and arts and culture at Southern Connecticut State University, and we know that lighting up districts is a great economic development strategy—it’s great for safety, it’s great for community building, all of which are principles of CT Main Street and the main street model,” she said. “We’re excited to light up Westville because right here, the strikeable match was invented. We’ve been lighting up Westville, New Haven, and the world for over 200 years. We’re a beacon!”

Carlos Eyzaguirre, Deputy Administrator of the City of New Haven’s Economic Development Administration, underscored Westville’s role as an example for other neighborhoods. “We really look to WVRA as a model for some of our other districts,” he said. “They’re the only Main Street program in the city. We’re looking at how to grow the commercial districts and how to impart the main street model to other growing neighborhood commercial districts in the City.”

Installation of the new holiday lighting will begin later this year, with the goal of illuminating Westville’s commercial corridors ahead of the winter season.

About the EmPOWER Main Street Fund

The EmPOWER Main Street Fund was launched in June 2025 in partnership with UI, CNG, and SCG — subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc. — subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc. — with $25,000 in seed funding. The program provides grants to CMSC member communities within the utilities’ service territories for projects that enhance downtown vibrancy, including lighting, beautification, signage, and commercial space improvements.

In its first grant round, three Connecticut communities were awarded funding: Old Saybrook, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance, and Windsor’s First Town Downtown. Their projects reflect the diverse needs of Connecticut’s downtowns and the creativity and commitment of local stakeholders working to make them more vibrant and welcoming.

CMSC and Avangrid encourage other businesses and corporations interested in supporting Connecticut’s downtowns to contribute to the EmPOWER Main Street Fund for its 2027 round. For more information on the EmPOWER grant or how to become a sponsoring organization, email Carl Rosa at carl@ctmainstreet.org.

About the Photo: WVRA Executive Director Lizzy Donius, WVRA Board Member Lisa Brandes, and Carlos Eyzaguirre from the City of New Haven, are joined by Michelle McCabe and Carl Rosa (CMSC) and Elizabeth Esposito (UI), for the EmPOWER grant award presentation. Photo taken by Christine Schilke for CMSC.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – March 20, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) recently presented the Town of Old Saybrook with a check for $3,800 to support its Flower Bed Program, a collaborative beautification initiative led by the Town’s Economic Development Department and the Old Saybrook Garden Club. The project will enhance three green spaces and 19 street‑tree planting areas along Main Street, adding color, landscaping, and vitality to the town’s central corridor.

The funds are being provided through the inaugural round of the EmPOWER Main Street Fund, which provides grants for projects that enhance downtown vibrancy. CMSC Senior Director of Programs Kristen Lopez, Field Services Director Carl Rosa, and United Illuminating’s Elizabeth Esposito, Community and Government Relations Specialist, presented the award during a visit to Old Saybrook.

Ms. Lopez praised the town’s proposal as being particularly noteworthy in the highly competitive round.  “Your application stood out for the scope of the beautification efforts and the partnership with economic development, the Garden Club, and engaging the merchants. We’re excited to support this work and see it come to life,” said Ms. Lopez.

Ms. Esposito echoed the enthusiasm for Old Saybrook’s efforts and the broader impact of thriving downtowns. “We know that the vibrancy of our towns is what makes Connecticut special. These main streets are where we want to live, to work, and to play, and these beautification efforts will only add to that vibrancy and make Old Saybrook even more special,” said Ms. Esposito.

Meanwhile, Mr. Rosa reflected on the town’s progress over the past three years since joining the CMSC member network, noting the measurable, incremental improvements CMSC has observed through its annual Main Street Management Assessment. “It’s great to see, it’s what we want to see. Onward and upward!”

Old Saybrook Director of Economic Development & Communications Jennifer Donahue expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with CMSC and the collaboration behind the Flower Bed Program. “We’re grateful to partner on this project with the Garden Club and with the Main Street businesses. There’s a lot of beauty on Main Street already, much of it due to the Garden Club, and we’re going to kick it up a notch with this project. We thank CMSC and Avangrid for the grant and for selecting our application—we’re really excited to get started,” said Ms. Donahue.

First Selectman Carl Fortuna highlighted the significant improvements planned for the coming year and how the new Flower Bed Program will tie into them. “This year will see big changes on our Main Street.” he said, noting recent safety upgrades to Main Street crosswalks, upcoming enhancements to their appearance, and long‑standing problem areas that will finally be addressed. “I’m grateful we’re undertaking this project in partnership with the store owners and the Garden Club. In addition to that, we’re making a large investment to the landscaping at the Town Hall, the park across the street and Chamber areas,” he added, emphasizing that a maintenance plan is already in place. “In conjunction with this project, Main Street is going to sparkle this summer. It’s going to look better than it has in years.”

The Flower Bed Program will begin this spring, with new plantings and landscaping enhancements rolling out throughout the summer.

About the EmPOWER Main Street Fund

The EmPOWER Main Street Fund was launched in June 2025 in partnership with United Illuminating (UI), Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG) — subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc. — with $25,000 in seed funding. The program provides grants to CMSC member communities within the utilities’ service territories for projects that enhance downtown vibrancy, including lighting, beautification, signage, and commercial space improvements.

In its first grant round, three Connecticut communities were awarded funding: Old Saybrook, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance, and Windsor’s First Town Downtown. Their projects reflect the diverse needs of Connecticut’s downtowns and the creativity and commitment of local stakeholders working to make them more vibrant and welcoming.

CMSC and Avangrid encourage other businesses and corporations interested in supporting Connecticut’s downtowns to contribute to the EmPOWER Main Street Fund for its 2027 round. For more information on the EmPOWER grant or how to become a sponsoring organization, email Carl Rosa at carl@ctmainstreet.org.

About the Photo: Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna, Economic Development Director Jennifer Donahue, and members of the Garden Club are joined by Kristen Lopez and Carl Rosa (CMSC), and Elizabeth Esposito (UI) for the EmPOWER grant award presentation. Photo taken by Christine Schilke for CMSC.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

For Immediate Release – March 6, 2026

(Hartford, CT) – Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) recently presented First Town Downtown (FTDT), Windsor’s main street management organization, with a check for $8,200 – the largest grant award from the EmPOWER Main Street Fund’s inaugural round. The funds will support the launch of a new downtown loyalty program designed to draw visitors and patrons to Windsor’s downtown businesses.

CMSC Executive Director, Michelle McCabe, Field Services Director, Carl Rosa, and Elizabeth Esposito, Community and Government Relations Specialist for United Illuminating, who also serves on CMSC’s Board of Directors, presented the check to First Town Downtown at their February Board meeting. Ms. McCabe commended the organization for their work, noting FTDT is one of CMSC’s oldest member communities and one of the few non-profit main street organizations in Connecticut.

Ms. McCabe highlighted Windsor’s momentum and the strength of their EmPOWER project proposal in the highly competitive application round.  She noted that the new digital gift card program is a best practice that will propel the downtown forward. “It is really exciting to see the new stores and new development projects in the downtown since we were here for our Spotlight on Main event two years ago. I know that the people that came to that event were really inspired by what they saw and Windsor’s plans for the future. Now so many of these plans have been realized and the project funded through EmPOWER will continue that momentum in support of Windsor’s downtown business community,” said Ms. McCabe.

Ms. Esposito echoed the excitement behind the grant proposal. “I think Windsor’s project is going to be a wonderful example for other communities in the state and the region.” Having attended Loomis Chaffee High School, she marveled at the change in the downtown. “Broad Street is unrecognizable from what it was back then. It makes me so happy to see how much has happened here and I can’t wait to see it continue.”  

First Town Downtown’s Executive Director Debra Delucia thanked CMSC, saying “We couldn’t do what we do without your support, your education, and your outreach — you’re always there for us when we need something.” She also thanked Avangrid for the grant funding, noting, “This program will help strengthen the connection between our community and local businesses, encouraging people to support the places that make Windsor’s downtown so special.”

About the EmPOWER Main Street Fund

The EmPOWER Main Street Fund was launched in June 2025 in partnership with United Illuminating (UI), Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG) – subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc.,  with $25,000 in seed funding. The program provides grants to CMSC member communities within the utilities’ service territories for projects that enhance downtown vibrancy, including lighting, beautification, signage, and commercial space improvements.

In its first grant cycle, three Connecticut communities were awarded funding: Old Saybrook, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance, and Windsor’s First Town Downtown. Their projects reflect the diverse needs of Connecticut’s downtowns and the creativity and commitment of local stakeholders working to make them more vibrant and welcoming.

CMSC and Avangrid encourage other businesses and corporations interested in supporting Connecticut’s downtowns to contribute to the EmPOWER Main Street Fund for its 2027 round. For more information on the EmPOWER grant or how to become a sponsoring organization, email Carl Rosa at carl@ctmainstreet.org.

About the Photo: First Town Downtown Board members are joined by Michelle McCabe and Carl Rosa (CMSC), and Elizabeth Esposito (UI) for the EmPOWER grant award presentation. Photo taken by Christine Schilke for CMSC.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported by its Founding Sponsors, the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD) and Eversource Energy. More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org. 

As you know, CMSC has the privilege of both seeing for ourselves and hearing from municipalities of all sizes about the successes and challenges facing their downtowns, main streets, and village centers. 

Vacant street level storefronts is one of the challenges we hear about most. 

Our members told us they want more tools to address this issue, a concern we shared with the co-chairs of the Planning and Development Committee. 

As a result, there is a bill – S.B. 363 – under consideration this session that would allow towns to opt in to imposing a fee on vacant storefronts. 

PUBLIC HEARING & OPPORUNITIES TO TESTIFY

A public hearing is scheduled for this Wednesday, March 4^th at 10:30am for S.B. 363. CMSC will be testifying in support but with some suggested changes. Read our testimony.

We hope that this legislation is something that you will support. We would also welcome any additional suggested changes to our testimony. 

If you do support this bill, please submit testimony in favor and consider joining me in testifying in person! 

• The link to submit testimony is here. 
• To testify in person, fill out this form. 
• Registration will close on Tuesday, March 3rd at 3:00pm. 

Speaker order of approved registrants will be listed in a randomized order and posted on the Planning and Development Committee website on Tuesday at 6:00pm under Public Hearing Testimony.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Michelle at michelle@ctmainstreet.org or (203) 767-8045.

For Immediate Release – January 15, 2026

(Hartford, CT) –The Connecticut Main Street Center (CMSC) is pleased to announce that the Town of Old Saybrook, Westville Village Renaissance Alliance, and Windsor’s First Town Downtown have been awarded EmPOWER Main Street Fund grants to implement projects that will enhance the vibrancy and appeal of their downtowns.

The EmPOWER Main Street Fund, launched in June 2025 in partnership with United Illuminating (UI), Connecticut Natural Gas (CNG), and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG) – subsidiaries of Avangrid, Inc.  – is seeded by a $25,000 investment from the utilities. The program provides CMSC member towns within the companies’ service areas with funding for main street improvement projects such as lighting, beautification, signage, and commercial space enhancements.

“Our downtowns thrive when communities have the resources to make meaningful improvements. Through the EmPOWER Main Street Fund, we’re helping towns take action on projects that not only beautify and enhance their streetscapes, but also strengthen local economies and foster a sense of pride. These grants represent an investment in the everyday experiences that make our Main Streets welcoming and vibrant,” said Michelle McCabe, CMSC’s Executive Director.

“Strong communities start with vibrant downtowns, and we’re proud to play a role in making that happen. Through the EmPOWER Main Street Fund, we’re investing in projects that create welcoming spaces, support local businesses, and encourage economic growth. Partnering with CMSC allows us to amplify these efforts and ensure that our cities and towns remain places where people want to live, work, and visit,” said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI, CNG, and SCG.

The grant recipients and projects are a reflection of the diverse nature of Connecticut’s downtowns and the ingenuity and commitment of local stakeholders:

• Old Saybrook Flower Bed Program – $3,800: Three green spaces and 19 street tree planting areas on Main Street will be beautified through a partnership between the Town’s Economic Development Department and the Old Saybrook Garden Club.
• Westville Village Renaissance Alliance Holiday Lighting Program – $5,000: Festive lighting will be installed on 38 trees along Whalley Avenue and Fountain Street, creating a welcoming seasonal atmosphere and strengthening the district’s visual identity.
• Windsor First Town Downtown Digital Loyalty Program – $8,200: A centralized digital loyalty platform will be developed to support small businesses, drive customer traffic, and promote Windsor Center as a unified shopping destination.

CMSC received applications from twelve communities requesting over $80,000, reflecting both tremendous interest in these types of projects and a need for this type of grant funding. The selected projects will be implemented beginning in spring 2026, continuing CMSC’s mission to foster vibrant, walkable downtowns across Connecticut.

You can learn more about CMSC and the EmPOWER Main Street Fund on CMSC’s website.

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Media Contact
Christine Schilke
Senior Director, Communications & Marketing
860-280.2356
christine@ctmainstreet.org

CMSC is the state’s premier resource for downtown vibrancy. Our mission is advancing communities across Connecticut to establish and maintain vibrant Main Streets. We provide education and training, resources and technical assistance, and function as the statewide champion for downtowns and Main Streets of all sizes.

CMSC is supported in part by the Department of Economic & Community Development (DECD). More information is available at www.ctmainstreet.org.