The Downtown Sykesville Connection (formerly Sykesville Main Street Association) was created in 2011. It is a part of the Main Street Maryland Program. The program strives to strengthen the economic potential of Maryland’s traditional main streets and neighborhoods.
Main Street Maryland selects communities who have made a commitment to succeed and helps them improve the economy, appearance, and image of their traditional downtown business districts through the Main Street four-point approach for commercial revitalization, which is organized into the following committees:
The Downtown Sykesville Connection became Main Street America accredited Main Street Program in 2014.
During its 12 years of operations, the Downtown Sykesville Connection (formerly Sykesville Main Street Association) has implemented the Main Street Approach™* to serve the residents of Sykesville, its visitors, and the merchant community. From the creation of the community garden, the development of the South branch skatepark, the restoration of the Main Street sign, the bike rack and sound system installations, the creation of Parklet, various art exhibits, and the management of a 6-month Farmers Market to the design of a full and diverse event calendar, the Downtown Sykesville Connection’s staff and volunteers tirelessly work towards fulfilling the mission of our organization: to improve the downtown Sykesville's quality of life for residents, visitors, and the business community. The Downtown Sykesville Connection is also responsible for administering state grants like the Downtown Lighting, Facade Improvement Program, the Nonprofit Assistance fund that financed the Farmers Market, and other State and corporate funding awarded to the Downtown Sykesville Connection to support projects, activities, and partners.
The Downtown Sykesville Connection is thrilled to continue its journey as a stand-alone community non-profit striving to preserve, promote, and enhance the character, history, of Downtown Sykesville for all to enjoy.
The Downtown Sykesville Connection will keep showcasing our small town through a rich calendar of events crafted to cater to residents of all ages and visitors seeking unique experiences and new trends.
The Downtown Sykesville Connection will remain focused on the beautification of our town and the preservation of its historical heritage.
The Façade Improvement Program offers matching funds for façade improvement. Building and/or business owners can apply for up to 50% percent of the cost of their improvement project. The maximum matching grant contribution by the Town is $ 10,000. The minimum grant contribution is $500. Work completed prior to a letter of commitment is not eligible for funding. The goal of the project is to encourage building renovation, historic preservation, and improved economic vitality by providing funding to upgrade Downtown Sykesville building façades.
Additionally, with the exception of painting, all applications must be approved by our Historic District Commission (Application) and Maryland Historic Trust (MHT) MHT Application.
The DSC exists to preserve, promote, and enhance the character, history, and vibrancy of Downtown Sykesville for all to enjoy.
Consult our 2022-2026 Strategic Plan here
