News & Media

Governor Josh Stein Speaks At NC Main Street Conference In Mooresville

By Julie Kay, Destiny Richards, WCNC Charlotte

A major conference focused on revitalizing North Carolina’s downtowns kicked off in Mooresville this week.

The North Carolina Main Street Conference brings together city leaders, business owners, and economic development professionals from across the state to share ideas and strategies for strengthening downtown communities.

NC Main Street is part of the nationwide network, “Main Streets of America,” which helps communities restore historic spaces, support local businesses, and create welcoming public areas.

Mooresville, designated as a Main Street community in 1988, has experienced significant growth through this initiative.

Over the years, the town has seen $117 million in public and private investment, 141 new businesses, and nearly 600 new jobs.

With hundreds of attendees expected, including speakers and participants from across the country, local leaders said this is a huge opportunity to showcase Mooresville’s success.

“To have 800 people from across the state — some of the speakers are from out of state and then we have probably a handful of people from Main Street communities like in Virginia and South Carolina — so just to be able to show off our community to all these folks is, is a great opportunity,” said Kim Atkins, executive director of the Mooresville Downtown Commission.

Gov. Josh Stein attended on Tuesday and delivered a speech to participants. He focused on his push to rebuild the local economies in western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, especially ahead of the Spring tourism season.

“Small businesses are the beating heart of the region of western NC, but many are struggling including many main street small businesses,” Stein said. “Towns just got wiped out. They need our help to reopen their doors.”

The conference, taking place at the Charles Mack Citizens Center Tuesday through Thursday, will feature keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and guided tours of Mooresville. Attendees will explore successful revitalization strategies and learn how to bring similar initiatives to their own communities.