Hickory – The Hickory Downtown Development Association (HDDA) is proud to announce that Downtown Hickory has once again been designated as an Accredited Main Street America™ program for 2026, a recognition awarded to communities demonstrating exceptional commitment to downtown revitalization and economic development.
The designation, announced by the North Carolina Department of Commerce in partnership with the N.C. Main Street & Rural Planning Center, recognizes 49 communities across the state that are leading the way in preservation-based economic development through the nationally recognized Main Street Approach™.
To earn accreditation, Main Street communities must meet rigorous performance standards across key areas including community engagement, leadership, sustainable funding, strategic programming, historic preservation, and measurable economic impact.
Across North Carolina, Main Street programs continue to drive meaningful results. In 2025 alone, these communities leveraged more than $518 million in public and private investment, supported 288 new businesses, created 1,925 net new jobs, and contributed over 127,000 volunteer hours.
Downtown Hickory’s continued inclusion on this list highlights the strength of its partnerships and its commitment to thoughtful, inclusive growth. Through collaboration with local businesses, civic leaders, and community organizations, HDDA remains focused on enhancing the downtown experience while supporting long-term economic vitality.
For more information about Downtown Hickory and the Hickory Downtown Development Association, visit www.downtownhickory.com.
