Downtown Front Royal, Inc Joins State Program to Boost Local Revitalization

Downtown Front Royal, Inc. (DFRi) has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2025-26 Mobilizing Main Street Program, an initiative led by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). This two-year program offers targeted training and support to help communities revitalize their downtown areas, strengthen organizational capabilities, and lay the groundwork for economic success.

Ellen Aders, President of the DFRi Board, highlighted the significance of the achievement. “The DFRi Board of Directors has worked hard over the past two years to prepare our organization for this opportunity. Thank you to Town Manager Joe Waltz and every single member of the Town Council for supporting this endeavor,” she said.

The Mobilizing Main Street program offers a comprehensive framework for communities aiming to achieve Advancing Virginia Main Street designation and accreditation by Main Street America. DFRi will collaborate with DHCD staff to develop personalized work plans, conduct market analyses, and implement design and grant strategies to foster growth.

Bryan Horn, DHCD Director, emphasized the program’s statewide impact, saying, “The Virginia Main Street program has been transforming communities for over 40 years, fostering local economic development, small business growth, and job creation across the Commonwealth.”

DFRi’s selection marks a major milestone in its ongoing mission to strengthen the local economy and preserve Front Royal’s historic downtown charm. Residents can look forward to meaningful progress in community revitalization.

For more information on the Virginia Main Street Program, visit dhcd.virginia.gov/vms.