Northampton’s uptown business district was given a major boost when the Northampton Area Chamber of Commerce decided to have a Main Street manager come aboard to generate new business in its commercial corridor, while also paying attention to those presently in business.

Tony Pristash, president of the Northampton Area Chamber of Commerce and a borough councilman, delivered the bold initiative to council, mentioning the person selected for the role will report to both the chamber board and Pristash.

Pristash said there will be no expense for the Main Street manager as “the chamber will foot the bill.”

In an interview with The Press, Pristash said, “We will be immediately looking for a person to be interviewed for the position. I would like to have someone selected and on the job by early next year.”

Stating that the Main Street manager will work in partnership with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, Pristash added, “The person hired will not only be involved with the uptown, but businesses all over the borough.”

The job description is a mix of duties, including organizing the annual street fair, researching and applying for state grants, meeting with owners of existing businesses to assist with their needs, seeking new opportunities and recruiting entrepreneurial endeavors.

“I am very excited about having a Main Street manager, who would bring energy and talent in revitalizing our business community,” Pristash said.

Speaking from the podium at the council meeting, Pristash explained, ”What I would do with the Main Street manager is simply sit down with them and do a one-, five- and 10-year plan on revitalization.”

The business climate in the borough is encouraging, he said, adding the recent street fair held by the chamber was not only profitable, but the most successful in more than two decades.