SMALL-TOWN SUCCESS: Cities in the eastern part of the state are seeing a rejuvenation with new businesses opening and established businesses expanding.

Small towns across the state with historic main streets are flourishing as entrepreneurs open doors to new businesses and manufacturers expand their operations.

Local governments work to keep the camaraderie of close-knit communities, all while helping grow industries and welcoming visitors.

These are a few elements you find in the eastern North Carolina communities of Elizabeth City, Greenville, Tarboro and Washington, where financial incentives, availability of a stable workforce and the proximity to major highways attract expanding businesses.

Two of the cities are part of the Main Street America program, a nationwide network of 1,200 cities that receive assistance with economic development and historic preservation. Industry expansions in the cities prove companies are enjoying the location, building up the local workforce and...