Rehoboth Beach Main Street earns national reaccreditation

Rehoboth Beach Main Street has again been designated as an accredited Main Street America program for meeting rigorous performance standards set by the National Main Street Center. 

Each year, the center announces the list of accredited local Main Street America programs to recognize their exemplary commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street approach.

Rehoboth Beach Main Street programs and activities are designed to assist and support downtown Rehoboth Beach business owners, entrepreneurs and property owners. RBMS highlights businesses that are the economic lifeblood of the community and promotes a positive image of downtown Rehoboth Beach as a great place to live, visit and shop.

Small businesses provide Rehoboth Beach with its unique appeal. RBMS fosters community awareness and appreciation through communication and support to local businesses as the key to success.

This past year, Rehoboth Beach Main Street supported the merchants during COVID via social media promoting safety and a positive image of the small businesses essential for the community’s economy.

RBMS worked with officials on strategies such as street barriers to provide outside, sidewalk dining with safe pedestrian zones and free parking on Monday evenings.

RBMS acquired and provided free hand sanitizer for city restaurants and retailers, and launched a Respect Rehoboth public service safety and awareness campaign.

RBMS also partnered with Schell Brothers to launch the Christmas in July promotion, supported a food drive and facilitated gift card donations by Rehoboth merchants for first responders. RBMS also provided email blasts about grant opportunities for local small businesses.

RBMS led the 2020 Cottage & Town Awards, which recognize residential and commercial property owners who contribute to the charm, beauty and history of downtown Rehoboth through architectural and landscape renovation, restoration and preservation.

During the holiday season, Dan Slagle, Rehoboth Beach Main Street executive director, was Santa riding on the fire truck to deliver holiday cheer and connect with area families and visitors.

In 2021, to liven up the main thoroughfare, Rehoboth Beach Main Street again implemented the downtown banner and matching awning program.

RBMS is also the home for Rehoboth in Bloom, a volunteer beautification organization that promotes community spirit and involvement.

RBMS is a year-round operation, promoting the city as a vibrant place to live and visit. 

Rehoboth Beach Main Street continues to recruit community volunteers to its committees as well as add more businesses to the Main Street membership program.

It’s noteworthy to mention that various projects are funded by the City of Rehoboth Beach and through memberships, donations and grant opportunities. 

For more information, go to downtownrb.com.