Marion, Iowa © Tasha Sams
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Rep. Troy Carter with Lousiana Main Street advocates. Photo by Chris Ferenzi.
Rep. Mike Ezell with Mississippi Main Street advocates. Photo by Chris Ferenzi.
Earlier this week, Main Street America announced that Congressman Troy Carter (LA-02) and Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) were selected as the inaugural recipients of the Main Street Policy Impact Award, recognizing their contributions to the revitalization of Main Streets and national policy to support economic development through business district organizations. The Main Street Policy Impact Award is Main Street America’s annual acknowledgement of extraordinary efforts taken at the federal level in support of policy and advocacy for the Main Street movement.
Rep. Carter and Rep. Ezell have demonstrated strong support for the Main Street network, especially with the introduction of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program (H.R. 3585) in May 2025. Upon receiving the awards, both Representatives Ezell and Carter spoke on the importance of preserving their hometown Main Street districts by supporting the small business community, further demonstrating their commitment to Main Street.
“I’m honored to be selected for Main Street America’s inaugural Main Street Policy Impact Award. Main Street businesses are the backbone of communities across South Mississippi, and I’ll continue working to advance policies that help local businesses grow, create jobs, and thrive,” said Representative Ezell.
“I am honored to receive this coveted award, but I share this recognition with the Main Street leaders and community organizations doing the work on the ground every day. I’m proud to stand with Main Street America to ensure our downtowns and commercial corridors have the resources they need to thrive, and I remain committed to supporting the local leaders, small businesses, and organizations that drive inclusive economic growth across Louisiana and our nation,” said Representative Carter.
The award was presented at the Main Street on Capitol Hill Reception on February 10, 2026, in Washington, D.C., where leaders and supporters from across the Main Street network gathered to celebrate work across the nation to support small business development, community preservation, and civic infrastructure through Main Street revitalization. The awards were presented by statewide Main Street leaders Ray Scriber, Louisiana Main Street, and Jeannie Zieren, Mississippi Main Street.
Strategic and consistent advocacy is key to growing and sustaining your local program. Whether you’re new to advocacy or strengthening existing efforts, Advocating for Your Local Main Street Budget provides the tools and strategies you need to champion your program with confidence. Register for this transformative three-part, live instructor-led course today and start honing your advocacy skills on March 17!
Learn how to effectively make your case to local decision-makers. Photo by Downtown Lansing Inc.
Civic infrastructure—like parks, libraries, trails, and downtown gathering spaces—is severely underfunded despite its proven impact on economic mobility, public health, and social connection. The Percent for Place coalition is calling for increased federal investment, streamlined funding, and locally driven solutions to close the civic infrastructure gap.
Main Street America is monitoring several federal policy issues that may impact Main Streets, including the proposed federal budget, HTC-Go, and funding for State and Tribal Historic Preservation Offices.