The Government of Saskatchewan has announced a $1.65 million investment over three years for a redevelopment program for communities of all sizes to help them realize a new future starting on Main Street Saskatchewan.
"Main streets are the traditional centres of commercial and cultural life in communities across Saskatchewan," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Bill Hutchinson says.
"This community-driven program will revitalize historic downtown commercial districts based on the principles of community organization, economic development, marketing and heritage conservation."
As mentioned in the budget 2011-12, the program will include matching funding assistance for the revitalization of downtown commercial areas in four demonstration communities. Communities of varying population size will be invited to participate through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process.
Eligibility will be determined on the basis of community capacity, community support, downtown viability and existing heritage buildings. For the selected communities, matching funding for three years for capital expenses and administrative costs will be provided.
Main Street programs are time-tested initiatives that have encouraged economic and social development of communities across North America through heritage conservation.
"The new Main Street program is a good example of how the Government of Saskatchewan's cultural policy, Pride of Saskatchewan, is supporting heritage stewardship and strengthening our vibrant arts and culture sector," Hutchinson adds.
For information on applying to the Main Street Saskatchewan demonstration program, visit www.tpcs.gov.sk.ca/heritage/.
