Virginia Main Street (VMS) proudly recognized the outstanding achievements of local leaders and communities whose innovative projects are strengthening historic downtowns across the Commonwealth during the 2026 Virginia Economic Development Association Summer Meeting in Blacksburg.
The 2026 Virginia Main Street Merit Award winners demonstrate the creativity, collaboration, and dedication that continue to strengthen Virginia’s downtowns. Whether through visionary leadership, innovative placemaking, entrepreneurial support, dynamic promotions, or historic preservation, each recipient exemplifies the power of the Main Street Approach® to create thriving, authentic communities.
Main Street Change Maker (Local Leader of the Year): Joe Griffith, The Phoebus Partnership
Joe Griffith was recognized for his exceptional volunteer leadership and longstanding commitment to Historic Downtown Phoebus. As Secretary of the Board and Chair of the Design Committee for The Phoebus Partnership, Griffith has helped shape the district through strategic planning, creative placemaking, and community engagement. His contributions include designing the Phoebus Self-Guided Walking Tour, leading the Living Shoreline project, and spearheading the community’s successful 125th Anniversary Celebration, which featured a popular pop-up museum celebrating Phoebus’s rich history. Additionally, during a year-long leadership transition, he stepped in as a volunteer Main Street Manager to keep the organization on track toward achieving the Advancing Virginia Main Street designation. His vision, creativity, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the future of Phoebus.
Impactful Placemaking: Town of Halifax’s Downtown Connections: Placemaking & Wayfinding
The Town of Halifax earned the Impactful Placemaking award for transforming underutilized alleyways into vibrant public spaces that better connect downtown businesses, parking, and visitors. Supported by VMS Community Vitality Grant and numerous local partners, the project introduced pedestrian improvements, public art, landscaping, gathering spaces, and a coordinated wayfinding system that encourages visitors to explore the historic district on foot. The addition of colorful murals and the restoration of the town’s historic water tower have further strengthened Halifax’s identity while creating a more welcoming and engaging downtown experience.
Entrepreneurship Gamechanger: Believe in Bristol’s Downtown Bristol Entrepreneur Grant Program
Believe in Bristol‘s Downtown Bristol Entrepreneur Grant Program (E-Grant) was recognized for its comprehensive approach to supporting local entrepreneurs. Since 2014, the program has paired business training, mentorship, and networking with grant funding to help entrepreneurs launch or expand businesses downtown. In 2024, the program attracted 46 applicants, guided 20 entrepreneurs through a six-week business development course, and awarded a total of $50,000 to nine businesses following a public pitch competition. Beyond funding, the program has cultivated a collaborative network of business owners who continue to invest in Downtown Bristol’s long-term success.
Promotional Innovation: Town of Rocky Mount’s Rocky Mount Fest
Rocky Mount Fest received the Promotional Innovation award for transforming a one-time sesquicentennial celebration into one of the region’s premier free music festivals. Organized by the Town of Rocky Mount with support from Community Partnership, the event activates the Historic District through live music, local vendors, restaurants, family activities, and community organizations. The 2025 festival featured 18 bands across five stages, welcomed an estimated 18,000 to 20,000 attendees, and saw increased vendor participation and revenue. The festival has become a signature event that celebrates Rocky Mount’s heritage while driving visitation, supporting local businesses, and building community pride.
Power of Preservation: Old Town Winchester’s History of Us
Old Town Winchester‘s History of Us project was recognized for making local history more accessible and engaging. Developed in partnership with Preservation of Historic Winchester, the initiative creates a free, self-guided virtual experience that shares the stories behind the district’s historic buildings, businesses, and people. By combining historical research with community storytelling, the project encourages residents and visitors to explore Old Town while fostering a deeper appreciation for its historic character. The initiative also demonstrates how preservation can be strengthened through education, public engagement, and community participation.
The 2026 VMS Merit Awards were presented during the Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) Summer Membership Meeting in Blacksburg on June 10, 2026. Congratulations to all winners, and thank you for your continued commitment to preserving the unique character and economic vitality of Virginia’s historic downtowns.
Photo courtesy of Virginia Economic Developers Association, Town of Halifax, Believe in Bristol, Community Partnership of Rocky Mount, and Old Town Winchester
Virginia Main Street 