Strengthening Main Street’s Role – Funding, Partnerships, and Community Engagement
How does a small town make the case for investing in Main Street? For Cape Charles, Virginia, the journey began with a simple but essential question: What value will this bring us?
This second installment of a two-part series explores how Cape Charles Main Street’s (CCMS) impact didn’t stop with initial successes. Over time, the organization has secured impressive grant funding to drive projects that improve both the visitor experience and the quality of life for residents.
“In the last fiscal year, CCMS closed out over $201,000 in grants. These funds covered enhancements like benches, tables, and rocking chairs for the visitor center, social media marketing, walking tours, and annual events.” – Karen Zamorski, Executive Director, Cape Charles Main Street
Additionally, CCMS has secured another $257,000 in active grants, from Virginia Main Street, Virginia Tourism, and local partners, for projects including:
- Upgrading Strawberry Street Plaza;
- Overhauling the beach bathroom;
- Expanding off-season events; and
- Launching a multi-year entrance gateway beautification project
Building Strong Relationships for Long-Term Success
A crucial component of Cape Charles’ success has been its ability to forge strong relationships with local government. Town Council and CCMS maintain a multi-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that ensures clear expectations, financial commitments, and transparency.
“With this support comes the requirement of detailed reporting. If a Main Street program can’t account for where their money is being spent, it would be a no-go for me. When Karen Zamorski, Executive Director of CCMS, presents to Town Council, she delivers clear, professional reports that demonstrate exactly what we’re getting in return.” – Town Council Member Paul Grossman
Engaging the Community in Main Street Advocacy
Beyond financial investments, CCMS has prioritized engaging residents and volunteers in a way that strengthens advocacy for Main Street. Initiatives like the annual Heart & Soul in a Bowl soup night bring the community together in a fun and meaningful way.
“The board makes homemade soups, and residents come to enjoy a free meal in the firehall. It’s turned into a friendly competition, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity for people to learn about Main Street initiatives and sign up as volunteers.” – Bill Stramm, President of the Board, Cape Charles Main Street.
CCMS has also completed highly visible projects that resonate with residents, including:
- Restoring an original train car as part of the new welcome center;
- Acquiring beach wheelchairs for handicapped residents and visitors; and
- Renovating public facilities like the beach bathroom
“People relate to things they can physically see. By continuing to work on projects that directly improve the town, Main Street will continue to receive broad support.”
– Town Council Member Paul Grossman
Advice for Other Towns Considering Main Street Designation
For communities contemplating whether to pursue Main Street designation, Councilman Grossman offers this advice:
“Go talk to other Main Streets in towns comparable to yours. Visit with Town Council members and the Main Street organization to understand how they work together. If you decide to move forward, consider having your Town Manager serve on the board—it’s been incredibly beneficial for us.”
Perhaps the most critical factor, however, is finding the right leader.
“I can’t stress enough that the leadership and passion of the Executive Director are essential. They drive this bus. Take the time to find the right person.” – Town Council Member Paul Grossman
Cape Charles Main Street has demonstrated the immense value that a well-run Main Street program can bring to a community. By prioritizing advocacy, securing funding, and engaging stakeholders at all levels, the program continues to shape Cape Charles into a thriving, revitalized district with a strong future ahead.
Virginia Main Street 