06/18/2026
The Kentucky Main Street program recognized exceptional achievement in downtown revitalization and community development during the 2026 Kentucky Main Street Awards. The ceremony honoring volunteers, business owners, local leaders, preservation advocates and Main Street programs from across the commonwealth was held June 3 in Midway.
"Kentucky’s Main Street communities thrive because of the dedication of local leaders, volunteers, business owners and partners who invest their time, talent and resources into creating vibrant downtowns," said Kitty Dougoud, Kentucky Main Street program administrator. "These award-winners represent the very best of the Main Street movement and demonstrate how historic preservation and community development work hand-in-hand to create stronger places to live, work and visit."
The annual awards celebrate the individuals, organizations and projects that strengthen Kentucky’s historic downtowns through preservation, economic development, community engagement and placemaking.
“The Main Street Market was created to remove barriers for entrepreneurs and provide a pathway for small businesses to grow in downtown Guthrie,” said Tracy Robinson of Guthrie Main Street, winner of the Best Retail Economic Vitality Initiative Award. “By sharing resources, creating a collaborative retail environment and supporting more than 50 local vendors, we’ve been able to strengthen our downtown economy while creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs. We’re honored to receive this recognition and hope our success demonstrates how innovative, community-driven solutions can support small businesses, encourage local investment and strengthen rural downtowns across Kentucky.”
Volunteers of the Year
The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes individuals whose dedication and service have made a significant impact in their communities.
Alicia Slusher, Main Street Pineville
Kathy Miracle, Shelby Main Street
Mary Ann Fletcher, Pikeville Main Street Program, Inc.
Spirit of Main Street – Individual
The Spirit of Main Street Individual Award honors a community member who exemplifies the values of the Main Street program through leadership, enthusiasm and commitment to downtown revitalization.
Tony Wilder, Main Street Perryville
Spirit of Main Street – Business
The Spirit of Main Street Business Award recognizes businesses that contribute to the vitality and character of their downtown districts.
Jennifer Amburgey, Gem City Cakes, Pineville
Steven Stivers, Making Good Scentz, Bardstown
Outstanding Local Leader
The Outstanding Local Leader is awarded to elected officials, civic leaders and community advocates who have championed Main Street initiatives.
Greg Ashworth, Bardstown
Outstanding Main Street Partner
The Outstanding Main Street Partner Award honors individuals whose support and collaboration have advanced local Main Street efforts.
Lora Justice, Springfield Main Street
Phillip Grubb, Bardstown Main Street
Entrepreneurs of the Year
The Entrepreneurs of the Year Award recognizes business owners whose innovation and investment contribute to the economic vitality of Kentucky’s downtowns.
Damon Ballinger, Postal Square, Morehead
Whitney Tackett, Ivy Grey Boutique, Pikeville
Ashley Cambron, Cambron Charcuterie Co., Middlesboro
Best Retail Economic Vitality Initiative
This award is given for innovative efforts to strengthen downtown commerce and support local businesses.
Main Street Market, Guthrie Main Street
Best Adaptive Reuse
The Best Adaptive Reuse Award celebrates the rehabilitation of a historic building for a new purpose while preserving its historic character.
Jason and April James, BeSpoke & Bond, Bardstown
Best Outdoor Space Improvement
This award is given for projects that enhance public spaces and improve the downtown experience.
Pineville Streetscape Project – City of Pineville, Main Street Pineville, Jacob Roan, Scot Madon and Shawn Fugate
Brick & Mortar Award
The Brick & Mortar Award recognizes significant investment in downtown buildings that contributes to economic growth and community revitalization.
Alex Doyle and Dillon Boone, 726 Main Street, Shelbyville
Best Public Relations Promotion
The Best Public Relations Promotion is awarded for excellence in marketing and community engagement.
Beattyville Main Street for Beattyville Reimagined
Best Social Media
The Best Social Media Award honors outstanding use of digital platforms to promote downtown businesses, events and community initiatives.
Paducah Main Street
Outstanding Special Project
This award recognizes collaborative projects that strengthen downtown revitalization efforts and community partnerships.
Maysville Main Street in partnership with MCHS Culinary and Visual Arts Programs
Best Main Street Event – Small
The Best Main Street Small Event Award celebrates exceptional community events that draw visitors and honor local culture.
Gourd Festival, Taylorsville Main Street
Best Main Street Event – Large
The Best Main Street Large Event is awarded for large-scale events that create significant economic and community impact.
First Fridays, Heart of Scottsville
Preservation Heroes
The Preservation Heroes Award recognizes individuals whose commitment to historic preservation has strengthened their communities and protected local heritage.
Deana Wright, Downtown Murray Kentucky
Tracy Robinson, Guthrie Main Street
Sam Burgess, Carrollton Main Street Program
Downtown Morehead, Inc. Middlesboro Main Street Shelby Main Street
