Gaylord joins Select Level Michigan Main Street Program

LANSING, Mich. -- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) today to announce Gaylord has been selected by the MEDC to take part in the Select Level of the Michigan Main Street (MMS) program .

As part of the Select Level of the MMS program, they will receive five years of intensive technical assistance from MEDC with a focus on revitalization strategies designed to generate activity through new retail businesses and events, fostering pride in this Northern Michigan community.

"Across Michigan, our historic investments in revitalization and placemaking are helping build more vibrant communities and bustling main streets where people want to live, work, and raise their families," said Gov. Whitmer . "With the support of the Main Street program and the MEDC, we will continue to transform the downtowns and commercial districts throughout Michigan. Congratulations to Gaylord on their Select Level designation."

The MMS program builds upon the existing infrastructure in a district to support vibrancy and strengthen a sense of place. Local leaders are empowered to guide tailored on-the-ground economic development efforts to foster small businesses, bring more customers to the neighborhood, revitalize the built environment and cultivate community pride.

Gaylord joins 23 other districts already benefiting from participation in the MMS program. To view a map of the current MMS communities, visit here .

"The MEDC is pleased to support communities across Michigan and invest in their resilience as part of our economic strategy's placemaking efforts, developing downtowns and commercial districts to grow vibrant, unique places ," said MEDC SVP of Community Planning and Development Readiness Michele Wildman . "Programs like Michigan Main Street provide communities with the tools needed to create jobs, cultivate community investment, and build a sense of place for Michigan residents. We look forward to seeing how the Gaylord community grows over the next five years."

"Downtown Gaylord is the heart of our community, reflecting the pride, history, and shared vision that continues to shape its future. We are deeply honored to be selected to join the Main Street Select Level program," said DDA Executive Director Lisa Marie Tobin . "This recognition reflects what can be accomplished when a community comes together around a shared vision, and it creates new opportunities. We look forward to continuing this partnership with Michigan Main Street, our community will gain access to the expertise and resources needed to strengthen our downtown, encourage thoughtful investment, and preserve the character that makes our Alpine Village so special. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey by further strengthening Downtown Gaylord as a vibrant gathering place, a thriving economic center, and a welcoming destination that enhances the quality of life for residents and provides visitors with an authentic experience."

Over the past year, MMS communities generated more than $9.1 million in private investment, 93 new businesses and 83 façade improvements and building rehabilitations. Since its inception in 2003, Michigan Main Street has been a catalyst for job growth, private investment and community engagement. From 2003 through 2025, 2,126 total businesses have been launched, with a total public investment of more than $165 million and total private investment of $482 million. In addition, 29,220 volunteer hours were recorded in 2025 in the task of revitalizing downtowns and commercial districts across the state.

"As Chairperson of the Gaylord Downtown Development Authority, I believe downtown revitalization is an investment in our community's future," said Lori Lancaster, Gaylord DDA chair . "By supporting local businesses, attracting new investment and jobs, preserving our historic character, and enhancing the heart of our community, we can create a vibrant downtown that benefits residents, visitors, and future generations alike."

"Congratulations to the Downtown Development Authority, its Board, volunteers, and community partners on its outstanding achievement. Being selected to join the Main Street Select Level reflects the community's shared commitment to investing in Downtown Gaylord and will provide valuable resources to help strengthen our local economy, preserve our historic character, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike," said City Manager Kim Awrey . "The City of Gaylord looks forward to continuing its partnership with the Gaylord DDA and Michigan Main Street as we build on this momentum together."

"The City of Gaylord is thrilled to be chosen as a Select Level community," said Todd Sharrard, City of Gaylord mayor. "Our Downtown Development Authority and staff have worked countless hours to achieve this prestige title for continued success of our downtown business growth and attracting residents, business owners, and developers. We look forward to working alongside the MEDC staff to develop strategies for Gaylord to build a stronger economy and a more vibrant community for all."

Learn more about the MMS program as well as MEDC's community development programs.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state's marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan's economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn, and Twitter.