Growing Business, Preserving History.
The Georgia Main Street Program began in 1980 as one of the original pilot state coordinating programs of the National Main Street Initiative launched by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The program launched with five local communities and has grown to serve 100+ communities statewide. Georgia Main Streets represent some of the strongest central business districts in the Southeast.
Fast Facts
Number of Georgia Main Street Cities
Number of Businesses Opening or Expanding in 2025
Number of Net New Jobs Created in 2025
Number of Building Rehab Projects Completed in 2025
Total Amount of Private and Public Investment made in Georgia's Downtowns in 2025
Volunteer Hours Contributed in 2025
Main Street of the Month
Calhoun, Ga
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Downtown Calhoun is a welcoming destination where historic character, local businesses, and community connections come together. Its walkable streets feature a lively mix of locally owned shops, restaurants, gathering places, and cultural attractions while maintaining the small-town atmosphere that makes the community feel like home.
Under the leadership of Main Street Director Lacey Fuquea, who has served in the role since 2024, the Calhoun Downtown Development Authority and Main Street Program continue to take a comprehensive approach to revitalization. Through strong partnerships with local businesses, property owners, volunteers, and city leaders, the program is strengthening downtown as both an economic center and a place where residents and visitors can gather and connect.
That commitment produced measurable results in 2025. Downtown Calhoun hosted 84 promotional events, welcoming more than 50,800 attendees throughout the year. Volunteers contributed 166 hours, valued at more than $5,400, to support downtown activities and initiatives.
The district also welcomed or expanded three businesses, created five new jobs, completed a building rehabilitation project valued at $60,000, and invested $14,000 in a public improvement project. Altogether, Downtown Calhoun reported nearly $299,000 in public and private investment during the year.
Visitors can explore a diverse collection of downtown businesses, from longtime establishments and unique boutiques to local restaurants, coffee shops, and community gathering spaces. Downtown is also home to the historic Western & Atlantic Railroad depot, an important local landmark that reflects Calhoun’s history and continues to serve the community today.
By investing in its businesses, preserving its historic resources, and creating meaningful opportunities for people to experience the district, Downtown Calhoun continues to demonstrate how strong leadership and community partnerships can build lasting downtown momentum.
