Main Street Madison advocates for downtown growth at state capitol “Day On The Hill”
MADISON – Jen DeLessio along with Shannon Fisher and Brenda and Roderick Matthews, representing Main Street Madison, were among the attendees at Main Street Alabama’s “Day on the Hill” this year—an important event that continues to grow in reach and impact as the organization champions the interests of communities across the state.
Main Street Alabama’s state and local leaders advocated for the continuing revitalization of downtown districts and subsequent support of the state’s small business economy. The organization’s statistics are staggering, proving its footprint in the state continues to grow each year. With over 270 jobs created, 32,000 volunteer hours, and well over $100 million invested in public and private partnerships in 2025 alone, it was easy to recognize the positive results of its efforts while at the State House.
During the visit, Jen DeLessio and Main Street Madison representatives held productive meetings with Senator Tom Butler and Representatives Marilyn Lands, Parker Moore, and Phillip Rigsby to share the accomplishments and excitement of the organization. Additionally, the team connected with the offices of Senator Arthur Orr and Sena- tor Sam Givhan to provide important updates on Madison’s progress and plans.
The visit underscored the significance of the Main Street Four-Point Approach in Madison, highlighting recent successes such as the launch of the Downtown Entertainment District and ongoing efforts to increase foot traffic and local investment in the downtown district.
“Main Street Madison was honored to represent and advocate for our historic downtown at the State Capitol,” said Jen DeLessio, Executive Director. “Main Street isn’t just about preservation; it’s about ensuring our small businesses have the resources they need to thrive. Their success is essential to the economic vitality of our community.”
“Main Street Alabama remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the growth and sustainability of local economies across the state through downtown revitalization,” explained Mary Helmer Wirth, Main Street Alabama President and State Coordinator. “Our organization’s state and community leaders enjoyed another successful Day on the Hill connecting with our partners in the Legislature.”
Through the passion and growing expertise of local Main Street leaders, these advocacy efforts and first-hand experiences continue to help shape policies that continue to shape and empower Main Street districts across Alabama.
About Main Street Madison Main Street
Madison is a non-profit organization dedicated to the revitalization and economic development of Historic Downtown Madison, Alabama. As a designated Main Street Alabama community, the organization utilizes the proven Main Street Four-Point Approach—Organization, Design, Promotion, and Economic Vitality—to preserve the city’s small-town charm while creating a vibrant, walkable destination.
Through public-private partnerships, Main Street Madison works to support local small businesses, increase foot traffic, and foster community pride through events and historic preservation. Learn more at mainstreetmadison.org.
