Press Release
March 11, 2026
City of Inglewood Announces Over $5 Million in Contracts to Advance Destination Market Street Program
INGLEWOOD, CA — The City of Inglewood announced the award of more than $5 million in contracts as part of the City of Inglewood’s Destination Market Street Program, a key initiative aimed at revitalizing downtown Inglewood and supporting local businesses along the Market Street corridor.
The program is designed to catalyze economic growth, strengthen small businesses, and enhance the visitor experience along Market Street and the Downtown Historic Core through strategic investments in façade improvements and tenant build-outs.
“Market Street has always been the historic heart of Inglewood,” said Mayor James T. Butts, Jr. “These investments mark the beginning of a new chapter—transforming the corridor into a vibrant destination while empowering the local businesses that give our city its character.”
The Destination Market Street Program provides grants of up to $250,000 to eligible businesses and property owners for façade and tenant improvements. The program launched in June 2025 and generated strong interest from the community, with more than 80 applications submitted requesting over $17 million in funding.
“Demand for this program demonstrates the energy and entrepreneurial spirit of Inglewood’s business community,” said Councilmember Eloy Morales, Jr. “By investing in our local businesses, we are building a stronger downtown that will serve as a cultural and economic hub for years to come.”
The Program is part of a broader revitalization effort supported by state investments, including appropriation championed by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor, as well as former California State Senator Steven Bradford, former State Senator (now Congresswoman) Sydney Kamlager-Dove, and former Assemblymember Autumn Burke to support improvements in downtown Inglewood. The City anticipates supporting over 30 projects along and around the Market Street corridor through this program.
“The Destination Market Street Program is an important step toward building a thriving downtown corridor that reflects the pride and diversity of our city,” said Councilmember Gloria Gray. “Supporting local businesses ensures that the economic benefits of our city’s growth are shared throughout the community.”
The Destination Market Street Program is administered by PCR Business Finance, which is assisting the City with outreach, application review, and grant administration. Businesses selected for funding will receive notices to proceed with their proposed improvements this month.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our community,” said Councilmember Alex Padilla. “This program is an investment in the entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses that give Market Street its character and make Inglewood such a special place.”
In addition to business improvement grants, the City is advancing a Market Street streetscape improvements as part of the Inglewood Transit Connector Phase 1 Project, which will include improved crosswalks and sidewalks, new landscaping, streetscape furniture, pedestrian oriented lighting, and wayfinding signage.
“Revitalizing Market Street is about more than improving buildings — it’s about strengthening the sense of community that defines Inglewood,” said Councilmember Dionne Faulk. “These improvements will help create a vibrant, walkable environment where residents and visitors can shop, dine, and gather.” Community engagement, planning updates, and public art programming will also advance in parallel to further activate the Market Street corridor and enhance the pedestrian experience.
