Lt. Governor Beckwith and OCRA Announce Prestigious 2026 Designation
INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (March 5, 2026) – The Office of Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) announced today that Columbia City Connect has achieved Nationally Accredited Main Street status, the highest recognition in the Indiana Main Street program. This designation honors communities that exemplify excellence in downtown revitalization, preservation-based economic development, and community engagement.
Columbia City Connect was evaluated by Indiana Main Street, in partnership with Main Street America, based on rigorous performance standards and its commitment to the Main Street Approach. The recognition reflects the organization’s dedication to fostering a vibrant, welcoming downtown, supporting local businesses, and preserving the historic character of Columbia City.
“It is an honor to see these Main Street groups recognize the impact and benefits of working with the Office of Community and Rural Affairs,” Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith said. “Rising up the ranks or becoming a part of the Main Street program is a tremendous benefit for these communities. I’m excited to see what the future holds for these organizations.”
Founded to support downtown businesses, property owners, and community initiatives, Columbia City Connect has worked for years to transform the downtown district into a hub of activity, culture, and opportunity. Signature events like First Fridays, the Walk of Trees, Ladies Night Out, and other community programs showcase the district’s vibrancy and attract visitors from across the region.
The organization’s success is driven by the dedication of volunteers, board members, business owners, and community partners who invest countless hours in planning, beautifying streetscapes, supporting entrepreneurs, and enhancing downtown life. Strategic downtown planning, partnerships with local and state agencies, and programs for both new and established small businesses have strengthened community engagement and prepared Columbia City to leverage future funding opportunities.
Columbia City Connect now joins a network of nationally accredited Main Street communities, gaining access to exclusive resources, training opportunities, and technical assistance from Main Street America and Indiana Main Street.
“Becoming a Nationally Accredited Main Street is a celebration of the countless hours of dedication, creativity, and leadership our volunteers, board members, and community partners have contributed,” said Niki Keister, Executive Director of Columbia City Connect. “Their passion has brought our downtown to life, and the best is yet to come as we continue building a vibrant, thriving Columbia City together.”
This designation positions Columbia City Connect to continue fostering economic vitality, historic preservation, and community engagement downtown, ensuring that the district remains a welcoming and inspiring place for residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs alike.
ABOUT THE INDIANA MAIN STREET PROGRAM
The Indiana Main Street program works in partnership with Main Street America to provide a framework for comprehensive, preservation-based economic development in downtowns across the state. Communities are evaluated annually for their performance and may achieve one of four program levels: Nationally Accredited Main Street, Indiana Accredited Main Street, Aspiring Indiana Accredited Main Street, or OCRA Downtown Affiliate Network. For more information, visit in.gov/ocra/mainstreet.
