Lawmakers have a chance to put some much-needed money into a program to revitalize Maine’s downtowns. They should approve the modest budget request – $300,000 – to expand the Maine Downtown Center’s Main Street program. Better still, legislators should look for ways to permanently fund this program, which ties in with so many other state efforts, such as promotion of the creative economy, curbs on sprawl and job creation.

Five years ago, lawmakers launched the program, based on a successful national program run by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Soon after the project began here, the legislative funding dried up. The program was kept going by private donation and contributions from a variety of state agencies. It is time to increase the funding so the program is more stable and can help more communities. A bill sponsored by House Speaker John Richardson would do this.

The program works with communities for three years to revitalize their core business districts to spur economic development, preserve unique architecture and build a sense of community. Six communities – Bath, Eastport, Gardiner, Norway, Saco and Waterville – have been in the program for three years. Van Buren and Skowhegan were recently added.

Rather than build pedestrian malls and install lampposts, the Main Street program helps communities develop their own revitalization plan built on local needs and assets. Efforts in Eastport have centered on expanding the town’s creative economy. Gardiner has focused on rebuilding its waterfront.

Brenda Libby, the president of the Saco Chamber of Commerce, credits the program with helping that town focus its efforts so it could tackle projects that seemed too large and difficult to accomplish. The program also renewed pride in Saco, she said.

Criteria to participate in the program are fairly strict to ensure an on-going commitment. For example, towns must commit to hiring a “downtown manager” who will oversee the program for its duration. Seven towns have already expressed interest in participating in the next round, if the funding is approved by the Legislature.

The state’s small financial commitment pays big dividends. The six towns that have gone through the program have secured more than $20 million in federal and private investments. More than 70 new businesses and 400 jobs were created in these communities. These communities can now serve as role models for other towns.

Revitalizing downtowns is a slow process, but the Maine Street program is working well and deserves money to continue its work.