GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Downtown Goldsboro has once again been recognized among the state’s top-performing downtown districts after earning Main Street America Accreditation status for 2026.
The North Carolina Department of Commerce announced that Goldsboro is one of 49 communities across the state to receive the prestigious designation, recognizing exceptional commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach.
The accreditation reflects Goldsboro’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its downtown district through economic development, historic preservation, business recruitment, and community engagement.
“Communities across our state continue to achieve excellence in economic development as they demonstrate what’s possible when people come together with vision and purpose,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Their dedication is a reminder that strong downtowns fuel prosperity and are built through passion, perseverance, and partnership.”
Goldsboro joined communities from across North Carolina in earning accreditation based on their 2025 performance. To achieve Main Street America’s highest level of recognition, communities must demonstrate excellence in six areas, including community commitment, leadership, sustainable funding, strategic programming, preservation-based development, and measurable results.
The accreditation is awarded through a partnership between Main Street America and the North Carolina Main Street & Rural Planning Center, which evaluates local programs against rigorous national standards.
“Our Main Street Accredited communities have demonstrated substantial achievement, driven by a clear vision for resilient downtowns,” said Liz Parham, Director of the N.C. Main Street & Rural Planning Center. “Their work reflects a deep commitment to excellence and a belief in what their communities can accomplish through collaboration, determination, and forward-looking leadership.”
Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes praised accredited communities for their grassroots efforts to create vibrant downtown districts.
“These programs demonstrate a dedication to investing in the people and places that make their downtown districts special and contribute to the collective power of the Main Street movement to build vibrant spaces and durable economies,” Barnes said.
The recognition comes as North Carolina’s Main Street communities continue to generate significant economic impact. Since 1980, the state’s Main Street programs have leveraged $6.1 billion in public and private investment, created more than 39,500 net new jobs, and rehabilitated over 8,400 downtown buildings.
In 2025 alone, Main Street and Small Town Main Street districts across North Carolina leveraged more than $518 million in investment, created 1,925 net new jobs, and recorded nearly 128,000 volunteer hours.
For Goldsboro, the accreditation underscores the continued importance of downtown revitalization efforts in driving economic growth, supporting local businesses, and preserving the city’s historic character.
The recognition aligns with North Carolina’s “First in Opportunity” strategic economic development plan, which aims to strengthen communities and improve quality of life across the state—from Murphy to Manteo.
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