TOPEKA– A restructuring of the Kansas Department of Commerce announced Thursday combines the Trade Division with the Business and Community Development Division, and also ends the Kansas Main Street program.

In addition, writes KDOC Secretary Pat George in an emailed letter, there will be consolidation of certain workforce services positions into the business development functions.  “The Department is implementing a restructuring that will allow us to be more cost efficient while still working effectively with Kansas businesses and communities,” he said.

According to George, by combining the Trade and Business and Community Development Divisions, KDOC can better integrate programs that help companies promote their products and services in international markets
with business recruitment and community development efforts.

The 2012 Main Street conference scheduled for Oct. 17-19 in Emporia will be cancelled.

George says the  goal of helping to revitalize downtown areas will use other resources available through the remaining Business and Community Development programs.