NASHVILLE (AP) — State business officials say the city of Lebanon is Tennessee's newest Main Street community.

Located in Wilson County, Lebanon is the state's 26th Main Street community. Cities that receive Main Street designations receive technical assistance and guidance to make their downtowns areas safe, appealing, vibrant places where people want to shop and live.

Historic Lebanon Executive Director Kim Parks says the economic revitalization and preservation of the city's historic Public Square and surrounding neighborhood will be enhanced by becoming a Main Street community.

In 2012, certified Main Street communities generated more than $82 million of public-private investment and created 604 new jobs.

State economic and community development commissioner Bill Hagerty says strong downtowns signal a healthy local economy and help attract companies.