By MyFM’s Marissa Santos – Franklin joins the celebration as the Mass Cultural Council announces $810,000 in grants to 54 state-designated cultural districts, aimed at fostering local cultural preservation and development. The grants, part of the Fiscal Year 2024 Cultural District Investment Grant Program, provide $15,000 to each district for activities such as marketing, capacity building, and public art.
Established in 2011, cultural districts, like those in Gloucester, drive economic growth and enhance local character. Gloucester’s Rocky Neck and Harbortown districts shared insights at the event. The success of the initiative, with 55 approved cultural districts statewide, has garnered recognition, receiving the 2023 Urbanism Award in September.
Franklin, along with other communities, benefits from the economic impact of cultural districts, as seen in last year’s report, which highlighted increased attendees, new businesses, and direct payments to local artists. The Mass Cultural Council continues its support, encouraging interested cities or towns to connect with their assigned Community Initiative staff member.
