For more than 30 years, the Market Street Restoration Agency has worked to make downtown Corning's historic district a showcase of architectural style and commercial vitality.
- Free Design Service for Business Signs
- Free Design Service for Facade Restorations & Improvements
- Advocate for Upper Floor Downtown Living
- Educational Programs for Preservation Awareness
- Advocate for Landmark Preservation
Our Objectives
To maintain Market Street as a unique commercial center.
To establish within an attractive environment a downtown that reflects the quality of life in the community; the quality of its people, organizations, business and industry.
To preserve structures that possess a rare uniformity of architectual style and character as a downtown attraction for area residents and visitors.
Living on Market Street
One of the most exciting possibilities for Historic Market Street is the development of upper floors of buildings for use as residential apartments. Its a powerful way to enhance the downtown environment and maintain Corning as a thriving place.
Since 2001, three buildings have undergone extensive rehabilitation to provide trend-setting examples of upper floor living on Market Street.
The idea of downtown living is growing more popular in cities across the country. From Austin, Texas, to Miami to Portland, studies project massive growth. A Brookings Institution study, described in USA Today, shows growth in many urban centers, with some more than tripling current downtown residential populations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does MSRA provide to businesses on Market Street?
A: The Market Street Restoration Agency provides free design services for signs and buildings, obtains bids, oversees actual work and supplies information on, proper restoration, repairs and construction.
Q: What are your office hours?
A: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Q: How do I obtain a sign permit from the City of Corning?
A: To acquire a new sign for your business, pick up a permit application at City Hall or at the Market Street Restoration Agency office. If you need design assistance and help with the application, we can do that. As part of the application process your sign designs will be reviewed by a mayor-appointed committee. This committee is made up of a diverse group of representatives from the community. They review requests at a monthly meeting. Upon approval, you can pick up your sign permit at City Hall and pay a permit fee.
Q: Are walking tours available of the Market Street Historic District?
A: Yes. Tours offer residents and tourists alike a unique look at the historic buildings and architecture that make Market Street unique. Tour information is available at the Visitors Center, Baron Steuben Place, 607-962-8997
