Main Street, Port Authority Partner to Support Festival

Clinton County Port Authority

Main Street Wilmington recently partnered with the Clinton County Port Authority to secure a $5,000 sponsorship investment, designed to benefit the ongoing work and mission of the Main Street Wilmington organization.

“We are really grateful for this show of faith and support for our work”, said Matt Purkey, Main Street Board President. “It’s really encouraging to know there is recognition that a lively and growing downtown translates into a more attractive community to work and live.”

Main Street is a local not-for-profit whose mission is to promote historic preservation and economic development, with the goal of maintaining a cultural downtown district that attracts entrepreneurs and retains businesses, serving as a vital hub for housing, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Dan Evers, Clinton County Port Authority Executive Director, stated that a vibrant downtown is a significant benefit in the recruitment of new businesses to Clinton County, as well as the retention of existing employers within the community as a whole. “When businesses consider investing in our community, quality of life is among the factors they evaluate. Having a thriving, family-friendly downtown with food and entertainment options can be a huge plus. We believe investing in the work of Main Street ultimately helps with our goal of being a community of choice for business, and is consistent with the Port Authority Board’s vision to extend our reach throughout the community. We’re pleased to partner with Main Street Wilmington to add value to our community.”

The Clinton County Port Authority is a special purpose government formed to operate transportation infrastructure and lead economic development efforts. It owns and operates the Wilmington Air Park, an integrated aviation and logistics business park located on 1,900 acres with nearly three million square feet of industrial, office and hangar space.  Along with owning and operating the Wilmington Air Park, the Port Authority works to facilitate economic development county-wide, through efforts including a Revolving Loan Fund and administering a federally-funded Brownfields Assessment Grant project.

Main Street plans to use the Port Authority partnership investment to fund several downtown projects including the Art & Soul Festival, wayfinding and storefront window decorating.