Cedartown awarded more than $7 million in grant funding

The City of Cedartown has been awarded more than $7 million in federal and state funding to make some of the city’s busiest roads safer, improve pedestrian access, and prepare key corridors for future growth.

“This is the largest amount of grant funding the City of Cedartown has been awarded in a single fiscal year,” said Cedartown City Manager Edward Guzman. “That’s a testament to the importance and relevance of the projects we have on our radar and a reflection on our staff’s hard work in writing grant applications.”

City Commission Chair Sam Branch expressed both excitement and appreciation for the historic level of grant funding. “We are extremely excited to receive this much funding for projects that will have a direct impact on our residents and visitors traveling through Cedartown,” Branch said.

“I want to thank all of our staff that had a hand in researching, applying for and securing this funding. Our people are the absolute best at identifying opportunities that will bring back more of the residents’ tax dollars into the community. Instead of funding projects for other cities and towns and in other states, we are ensuring your tax dollars are being spent in your backyard. All of that is made possible by our great staff.”

While the City plans on moving as quickly as possible regarding the identified projects, residents should understand that these enhancements won’t take place overnight, Guzman explained.

“Securing grant money, especially federal funding, means that a lot of the work on a project is behind the scenes. Paperwork, documentation, and other processes must be strictly followed before much of the visible work can start. Once that is complete, our residents can look forward to future traffic flow upgrades, increased pedestrian safety, and streetscape improvements on some of our busiest roadways.”

The largest grant comes from the Safe Streets and Roads for All program, totaling $4 million.

This grant will fund a large-scale, two-phase project that will improve pedestrian infrastructure along Main Street north of East Avenue and cover improvements to vehicle traffic flow at the intersection of East Avenue, College Street, and Wissahickon Avenue.

Phase I of this project will enhance safety for pedestrians and motorists by improving five high-traffic locations along North Main Street | U.S. 27 Business.

Planned improvements include pedestrian-activated Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), advanced warning signage, enhanced pavement markings, illuminated signs, and upgraded roadway lighting. This phase of the project is expected to decrease rear-end and angle collisions while creating a safer, more accessible transportation corridor for all roadway users.

KSI (Killed or Seriously Injured) crash rates indicate that North Main Street | U.S. 27 Business experiences a disproportionately high number of serious crashes compared with the rest of the city, making targeted safety improvements a critical need.

Proven safety countermeasures, including RRFBs and enhanced lighting, have demonstrated significant crash reductions. Studies estimate that RRFBs can reduce rear-end and angle collisions by approximately 69 percent, while improved lighting can reduce overall crashes by an estimated 21 percent.

Phase II will provide traffic calming improvements to the East Avenue | Wissahickon Avenue | College Street 4-way intersection.

Cedartown is one of twelve Georgia cities that received more than $54 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, which supports projects proven to reduce traffic crashes and serious injuries.

Funds awarded to Cedartown from the Rural and Tribal Assistance Program total $1.5 million. Also a U.S. Department of Transportation initiative, this program award will complete preliminary engineering and design for safety and accessibility improvements along approximately 0.95 miles of South Main Street, extending from the Silver Comet Trail to the South Main Street | Cason Road intersection, including the intersections with Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Canal Street, and State Route 100.

This corridor was identified as a priority during a 2025 Road Safety Audit conducted by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Georgia Bikes, Georgia Safe Routes to School, Main Street America, Rails to Trails Conservancy, the City of Cedartown, and Project for Public Spaces. The audit identified 44 safety concerns and documented 359 crashes within the project area between 2018 and 2024, highlighting the need for targeted safety improvements.

The design will include upgraded and ADA-accessible sidewalks on both sides of South Main Street, replacement of curb and gutter to improve drainage, and consolidation of driveway entrances to reduce conflict points and improve traffic safety. Plans will also incorporate roadway narrowing where appropriate, enhanced pedestrian crossings, including improvements at the Silver Comet Trail crossing, upgraded street lighting, and milling and resurfacing of the roadway.

By completing the design phase, the City will be positioned to pursue construction funding for a corridor that is safer, more accessible, and better connected for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and trail users.

Cedartown will receive $1 million from a FY2026 Congressional Appropriations program awarded by former 14th Congresswoman Marjorie Greene. This grant funding will be used to widen a 1,200-foot-long section of Davis Road.

The widening of Davis Road will allow for roadway improvements such as industrial freight access, increased motorist safety, and promoting future connectivity to the area.

Although current conditions are acceptable for residential and light commercial traffic, the anticipated increase in freight operations by incoming industries will result in expedited infrastructure deterioration and increased safety risks for a roadway not initially designed for heavy use. This funding is for Phase I of a multi-phase project, which will include future road improvements to an approximately 1.8-mile section of Davis Road between its intersections with Pine Pitch Road and Syble West Brannon Parkway.

The final grant award comes from the Transportation Alternatives Program, an initiative spearheaded by the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration.

Totaling $640,000, the grant award will help continue the transformation of central and south Cedartown by building on improvements made over the past two decades.

This project includes approximately one-half mile of South Main Street, from the Silver Comet Trail to Cobb Street, including the intersection with Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard | Canal Street.

Based on recommendations from the 2022 Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Safety Audit, the grant will fund engineering and design services to replace sidewalks on both sides of South Main Street, upgrade curb and gutter, improve drainage, and consolidate curb cuts to enhance ADA accessibility and better define commercial driveways.

Through the engineering and design services project, pedestrian safety will be improved through the addition of a center refuge median and a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) at the Silver Comet Trail crossing, as well as a new RRFB-equipped crosswalk at Central Street.

The project also encompasses the replacement of outdated wheelchair ramps and crosswalks with ADA-compliant facilities, the installation of new street lighting along the corridor, updating traffic signals at the Main Street | Canal Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard intersection, and milling and resurfacing the roadway with new pavement markings and signage.

“Together, these projects will make Cedartown safer, more connected, and better prepared for future growth,” Guzman said. “We’re excited to move from planning to implementation and look forward to the lasting improvements these investments will bring to our community.”

Revival is underway in Downtown Albany’s historic Harlem District.

Inspired by the area’s rich history, the Harlem Renaissance Project is bringing new investment and energy to a district once known as a thriving center of African-American business, culture, healthcare, and community life. The project honors that legacy while creating new opportunities for residents, entrepreneurs, and future generations.

Phase I includes the development of a new Health and Wellness Center, which broke ground in November 2024. The Samaritan Clinic is expected to serve as an anchor tenant, expanding access to healthcare while helping restore activity to this important part of Downtown Albany.

Future plans for the district include housing and spaces for retail, offices, medical services, restaurants, and other community-focused uses. Together, these investments aim to support economic growth, strengthen connections to downtown, and create a vibrant neighborhood where history and opportunity come together.

The Harlem Renaissance Project is more than a redevelopment effort. It is a story of restoration, resilience, and reimagining what is possible for one of Albany’s most historic communities.

Stay tuned as Phase I continues to take shape.

Main Street America and American Express recently announced more than 500 small business owners from across the country as recipients of the 2026 Amex Shop Small® Grants Program. Each selected business will receive a $20,000 grant to support growth, innovation, and long-term success.

Georgia was well represented in this year’s list of recipients, with several small businesses from communities across the state selected for this national recognition. These grant winners reflect the creativity, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit that help strengthen local economies and make Georgia’s downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts vibrant places to live, work, shop, and visit.

Georgia’s 2026 Amex Shop Small Grant recipients include:

  • Artspace Macon | Macon
  • Horton’s Books & Gifts | Carrollton
  • Papa &Mama Chat’s Soul Food | DeSoto
  • Pillar EMS Academy | Macon
  • Pink Flamingo Kids LLC | Newnan
  • Sylvia’s: A Supernatural Coffee Bar | Eatonton
  • The Junkman’s Daughter | Atlanta
  • The Wig Dr. Wig Boutique and Mastectomy Center | Marietta
  • Wild Blossoms | Acworth
  • Windmill Arts Center LLC | East Point

The Amex Shop Small Grants Program is designed to support small businesses as they continue to grow, adapt, and serve their communities. For many local business owners, this type of investment can help fund new equipment, expand services, improve operations, enhance customer experiences, or support other goals that move their businesses forward.

Georgia Main Street celebrates these grant recipients and the important role small businesses play in building strong, welcoming, and economically resilient downtowns. Congratulations to each of Georgia’s winners on this exciting achievement.

Read more and view the full list of grant recipients: https://shorturl.at/oe1Th

The City of Thomasville was recently awarded a $500,000 multiyear grant from Fox Gives to fund essential life-safety and accessibility improvements at the historic Thomasville Municipal Auditorium. Fox Gives is the nonprofit arm of Atlanta’s Fox Theatre.

“The Municipal Auditorium has long stood as a centerpiece of civic life in Downtown Thomasville, where generations have gathered for performances, public meetings, concerts, and moments that not only cultivate community, but promote tourism,” said April Norton, Managing Director of Marketing and Communications. “This grant ensures that our historic auditorium will continue to serve as a vibrant cultural and community gathering space for years to come.”

As a cornerstone of Thomasville’s cultural landscape, the Auditorium hosts performances, events and gatherings that strengthen community connection and contribute to the city’s vibrancy. The planned improvements will address fire suppression, structural repairs, key systems upgrades, and accessibility, making the venue more inclusive, safer, welcoming, and functional for future use.

“We’re proud to partner again with the City of Thomasville on the full rehabilitation of this exceptional local and statewide historic landmark,” said Leigh Burns, Fox Gives Director of Community Partnerships. “Beyond the importance of reusing the building, the investment of public funding to preserve this type of structure is critically important. Once a common civic landmark, municipal auditoriums are becoming increasingly rare across Georgia’s architectural landscape.”

The City previously received a $22,500 grant for planning activities related to the upcoming full rehabilitation of the historic landmark.

The grant is part of a $1 million multiyear investment, to two historic theatres, from Fox Gives—marking the first time the program has awarded two multiyear grants in a single year—demonstrating a continued commitment to preserving Georgia’s historic performance spaces. Since 2008, Fox Gives has invested more than $5.7 million in historic theaters and cultural landmarks throughout Georgia and the Southeast.

For more information about the Fox Gives Grant or the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, please visit Thomasville.org or call the City of Thomasville Visitors Center at 229-228-7977.

The Historic Ritz Theatre in Downtown Toccoa has received its third Fox Gives Grant, marking another important investment in the preservation and continued use of this beloved community landmark.

Representatives from the City of Toccoa, Main Street Toccoa, and Friends of the Ritz recently visited the Fox Theatre in Atlanta to accept the $65,000 award. The grant, matched by the City of Toccoa, supported the full replacement of the theatre’s lower-level seating.

In addition to the seating improvements, Friends of the Ritz donated new stage and house lighting, further enhancing the theatre experience for patrons and performers alike. Together, these upgrades reflect a strong local commitment to preserving the Historic Ritz Theatre while ensuring it remains an active and welcoming space for arts, culture, and community events.

Georgia Main Street congratulates the City of Toccoa, Main Street Toccoa, and Friends of the Ritz on this exciting achievement and thanks the Fox Theatre Foundation for its continued investment in historic theatres across Georgia.

Several Georgia downtowns and communities were recently recognized by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation through its 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation and Preservation Service Awards, honoring projects and local efforts that demonstrate the power of preservation to support community identity, economic vitality, and downtown revitalization.

The awards highlight communities across the state that are bringing historic buildings back into active use while preserving the character-defining features that make them meaningful.

Rome-Floyd County: Historic Clock Tower

Rome-Floyd County received the 2026 Marguerite Williams Award for the rehabilitation of the Historic Clock Tower, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Presented annually to the project with the greatest impact on preservation in the state, the award recognizes the careful restoration of the tower, which has overlooked downtown Rome from Neely Hill since the 1870s.

Originally constructed as the city’s first water reservoir, the Clock Tower later became a defining feature of Rome’s skyline. The recent rehabilitation addressed structural concerns, water infiltration, timber reinforcement, clock face restoration, gilded detailing, and copper roof repairs. At a time when the community is also grieving the tragic fire at the historic Floyd County Courthouse, the project serves as a meaningful reminder of the importance of preserving the places that tell a community’s story.

Americus-Sumter County: Allison Building

Americus-Sumter County was recognized with a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Allison Building in downtown Americus. Constructed in 1906, the building has long contributed to the character of West Lamar Street and Americus’ historic commercial district.

The rehabilitation adapted the building for modern use with upper-floor residential units and street-level commercial space while preserving historic features such as arched windows, masonry walls, timber framing, decorative wood columns, beadboard ceilings, and salvaged wood flooring. The project reflects a strong community commitment to downtown reinvestment and adaptive reuse.

Athens-Clarke County: Bell Hotel

Athens-Clarke County received a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Bell Hotel, a boutique hotel created through the rehabilitation of a former Southern Bell telegraph and telephone exchange building.

Constructed in 1916 and located within the Athens West Downtown Historic District, the Neoclassical building was carefully adapted for hospitality use while preserving its historic character. The project incorporated archival research, public collaboration, restoration of significant historic elements, and sensitive integration of new features, creating a new downtown destination rooted in Athens’ history.

Monroe-Walton County: J. L. McGarity Ford Building

Monroe-Walton County was honored with a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the J. L. McGarity Ford Building. Built in 1921, the former automobile dealership reflects the early rise of automotive commerce in downtown Monroe.

The rehabilitation transformed the long-underused building into a brewery and restaurant, bringing new activity to the downtown district. Historic features including the brick façade, steel trusses, interior plaster, and original steel windows were restored, while life-safety upgrades and new gathering spaces were carefully integrated. The project demonstrates how historic tax credit projects can support both preservation and local economic development.

Bainbridge-Decatur County: Old Post Office

Bainbridge-Decatur County received a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Old Post Office, a downtown landmark that has anchored a prominent corner of the square since 1914.

Originally serving as a post office and later as a federal courthouse, the Classical Revival building has been adapted into an event venue with guest suites and a speakeasy-style bar. The rehabilitation restored major interior spaces, including the grand lobby and former mail-sorting room, while preserving original hardwood floors, converted gas light fixtures, and the postal inspector’s catwalk. The project returned a vacant civic landmark to active use in the heart of downtown Bainbridge.

Gainesville-Hall County: Walton Jackson Building

Gainesville-Hall County was recognized with a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Walton Jackson Building. Constructed between 1936 and 1939 following Gainesville’s devastating tornado, the Art Deco building reflects the city’s resilience and recovery.

The rehabilitation preserved defining features such as the white marble exterior, green marble accents, Greek key detailing, exposed steel trusses, brick walls, heart pine elements, and concrete floors. Now home to a meeting venue, gallery, and locally owned businesses, the building has been reactivated as a downtown commercial and community asset.

The City of Canton received a 2026 Preservation Service Award for its leadership in making historic preservation a central part of community planning, public investment, and economic development.

Through its Main Street program, expanded local historic district, and long-range planning efforts, Canton has demonstrated a strong commitment to preservation as a tool for sustainable growth. Since 2018, the City has invested nearly $29 million in major preservation projects, including the Jones Mercantile Building, the former Canton High School now serving as City Hall, historic public safety facilities, and the continued stewardship of the Canton Theatre.

Together, these award-winning projects show how Georgia communities are using preservation to strengthen downtowns, support local businesses, create new housing and gathering spaces, and protect the places that give each community its unique sense of identity.

The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and the Georgia Cities Foundation (GCF) have announced that the cities of Clarkston, Perry, Union City and Warner Robins have successfully completed the Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative (GEPC), a two-year initiative designed to help communities strengthen downtowns and neighborhood centers through community-driven economic development strategies.

The graduating cities will be formally recognized during the 2026 GMA Annual Convention in Savannah.

Read More Here

Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs

While Dahlonega has been a big tourism draw in Georgia over the past few decades, it has had a stubbornly high poverty rate.

Booming Business: Deb Rowe, right, owner of Shenanigans Restaurant & Irish Pub and co-owner of Bourbon Street Grille, received funding and coaching from ACE. Photo credit: Contributed

“There was very little capital there, so we decided to take a chance on Dahlonega,” says Martina Edwards, president and CEO of Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs, Georgia’s largest community development financial institution dedicated to small businesses.

ACE created access to 27 small business loans worth $8.6 million in Lumpkin County, which includes Dahlonega, creating or retaining 258 jobs.

“We transformed the footprint of Downtown Dahlonega,” Edwards says. “When you stand in the square and look north, south, east and west, almost every business you see has been funded by ACE.”

Once-seasonal businesses are booming year-round – just try landing a table quickly at a restaurant.

“We stand in the gaps,” Edwards says, “and provide flexible capital for every entrepreneur regardless of their ZIP code. We help people who have trouble accessing funding from banks and more traditional sources.”

With offices in Metro Atlanta, Cleveland and Tifton, and a Women’s Business Center in Norcross, ACE’s program of mentoring, counseling and networking helps new business owners succeed with payroll, supply chain and marketing.

ACE started in 1997 by doling out $500 to $5,000 loans but now reaches every county in Georgia with loans from $15,000 to $1 million with a focus on the “missing middle” of businesses that need between $50,000 to $250,000 – too large for microfinance organizations, but too small and risky for traditional banks.

A window-blind company that started in a client’s basement now boasts a staff of 40 and is in negotiations with big-box retailers, Edwards says. “We help people’s dreams come true.” 

This article appears in the April 2026 issue of Georgia Trend.
Candice Dyer

The Hartwell Downtown Development Authority is pleased to announce that the Hart County Community Theatre has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to support continued improvements to this historic downtown landmark.

The grant will fund critical upgrades to the theatre’s lobby, concessions area, balcony, and technical booth, helping to preserve and enhance one of downtown Hartwell’s most valued cultural assets. Combined with $300,000 in matching support from Fox Gives through its 2024 Multiyear Grant, the project represents a significant investment in the future of the theatre and the broader Hartwell community.

The Hart County Community Theatre serves as more than a performance venue. It is a cornerstone of downtown Hartwell’s identity, providing space for arts, entertainment, and community gathering while also contributing to local economic activity and downtown vitality.

This investment underscores the importance of strategic partnerships and continued support for historic preservation, arts programming, and rural downtown development. Improvements to the theatre will help preserve an important piece of Hartwell’s historic built environment, expand opportunities for community and cultural programming, and strengthen downtown Hartwell as a destination for both residents and visitors.

The Hartwell Downtown Development Authority extends its sincere appreciation to the Appalachian Regional Commission, Fox Gives, the Hart County Community Theatre, the University of Georgia Archway Partnership, and the many partners who have helped make this investment possible. Their support reflects a shared commitment to Hartwell’s future and to the lasting value created through thoughtful investment in rural communities.

Albany, GA – The Downtown Manager’s Office announces that Don Borowski, owner of Albany’s Best Running,
will bring his specialty athletic retail business to Downtown Albany. The store will be located at 108 Pine Avenue
in the Front Street Market, with an anticipated opening in Summer 2026.

Read More

The Downtown Development Authority of the City of Vidalia has been awarded $250,000 through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund to support a redevelopment project in the heart of downtown. The funding will assist with the renovation of property at 110 East First Street, helping transform the space into new ground-floor storefronts with loft-style apartments above. This award highlights an important investment in downtown Vidalia and reflects the value of public-private partnerships in bringing new life, business activity, and housing opportunities to the district.

 MACON, GA  — The Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza announces the economic impact and visitation findings for the 2025/2026 season. Despite a shorter calendar window than the 2023–2024 season, this year’s event outperformed it across virtually every category.
According to data from Visit Macon, the 2025/2026 event drew 723,000 non-resident visits, a 10.3% increase over the 652,800 recorded in the prior season. Non-resident visits are all visits by people not living in the Business Improvement District (BID) footprint, including commuters and traditional visitors.
Long-distance visitors, defined as those traveling 50 or more miles, grew 4.6% to reach 116,440, underscoring the event’s standing as a regional attraction drawing visitors to Macon. The total economic impact was $7.359 million, averaging $193,678 per event day.
During peak viewing hours of 6–10 PM, the blocks of Poplar and Third Street recorded 107,700 evening visitors, a 12% jump over the previous year.
The 2025/2026 season continued to draw visitors from across the Southeast, with Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee rounding out the top five home states.
The lights didn’t just bring people downtown; they kept them spending. Data shows that 21.3% of visitors dined or shopped before the light show, and 26.4% did so afterward, a strong signal for local restaurants and retailers.
This season also marked the debut of the Marché de Noël, Macon’s first European-style Christmas market. The inaugural run attracted 18,199 shoppers across 10 days, with peak foot traffic on December 13. For a first-year event, that kind of turnout speaks to a real appetite for new downtown experiences and sets a promising foundation for seasons ahead.
Bryan Nichols, Technical Director and Stage Manager of the Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza, summed it up best: “What a season. Record-breaking economic impact, a bustling Marché de Noël bringing Cherry Street Plaza to life, and a 38-foot snowman welcoming visitors on Poplar Street at Rosa Parks Square. Watching this event grow while still delivering that same magic for families never gets old, and none of it would be possible without our incredible sponsors, partners, and volunteers. The best is still ahead: this coming year is our 10th anniversary, and Macon, you won’t want to miss it.”
Source: All data provided by Visit Macon
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About NewTown Macon
We are an independent nonprofit that focuses on economic development and revitalizing Downtown Macon. We make it safe and beautiful and fun and affordable. And we keep it local. We are located at 555 Poplar Street, Macon, GA 31201 and can be reached at (478) 722-9909. For more information, please visit newtownmacon.com.

Americus, GA — The City of Americus will receive $1.7 million in FY26 Community Project Funding for downtown streetscape improvements. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. will present the funding during a formal check presentation on Friday, February 20 at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall.

Federal Support for Downtown Americus

Congressman Bishop, a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, supported the passage of H.R. 7148, a bipartisan funding bill for Fiscal Year 2026. As part of that process, the City of Americus submitted a request for downtown streetscape improvements.

As a result, Americus was selected as one of 15 projects from Georgia’s Second Congressional District to receive Community Project Funding. The City will receive $1.7 million to support infrastructure improvements in downtown Americus.

What the Funding Will Support

The funding will improve sidewalks, streetscape infrastructure, accessibility, and overall safety in downtown Americus. In addition, the project will enhance the experience for residents, visitors, and business owners.

These improvements support the City’s long-term commitment to downtown revitalization. By investing in infrastructure, the City of Americus continues to strengthen its historic downtown district and position it for future growth.

“Securing $1.7 million in federal funding is a significant milestone for our community,” said Qaijuan Willis, Main Street & DDA Director for the City of Americus. “This investment allows us to move forward with critical downtown streetscape improvements and build on the momentum we have worked hard to create.”

A Major Step — With More Work Ahead

Although this funding represents a major step forward, additional funding will be necessary to complete improvements throughout the entire downtown district. However, the City of Americus will use these funds strategically and responsibly. Officials will ensure full compliance with federal guidelines while maximizing impact.

Big Check Presentation Details

Congressman Bishop will present a ceremonial check during the February 20 event. Members of the Americus Main Street Board, Downtown Development Authority Board, Mayor and City Council, and Interim City Manager will attend.

Community members and media representatives are invited to join the celebration at City Hall.

For additional information about the downtown streetscape improvements or the FY26 Community Project Funding award, please contact the Main Street office at (229) 928-6059 or email qwillis@americusga.gov

January 27, 2026

Nine cities across Georgia have been named as 2026 Visionary City Award honorees by the Georgia Municipal Association and Georgia Trend. The awards, a joint effort between the two organizations, honors cities that have turned thoughtful planning into measurable results for their residents.

“These communities share a common approach: listening to residents, working collaboratively, and following through,” said Ben Young, publisher and editor-in-chief of Georgia Trend. “Their work shows that visionary leadership doesn’t depend on size or geography—it depends on purpose.”

The nine honorees represent small, medium, and large cities from across the state, addressing challenges from flood mitigation and land conservation to youth entrepreneurship and public safety—all grounded in strong partnerships and community input.

Here’s a closer look at the winning projects in a Georgia Downtown.

Hartwell

The City of Hartwell’s StartUP Hart program connects students with educators, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders to turn business concepts into real ventures rooted in the local economy. Developed with Georgia Power’s CREATE program, Hart County Schools, and downtown development partners, the initiative combines mentorship, financial literacy training, and a pitch competition providing seed funding. Student-led businesses are now operating downtown, helping young people see a future in their hometown.

Suwanee

The City of Suwanee’s Town Center on Main completes a long-standing vision to unify Suwanee’s downtown by rerouting Main Street to connect historic Old Town with Town Center. The project unlocked new greenspace and improved walkability, adding gathering areas, water features, a pedestrian bridge, a Veterans Memorial, and Suwanee Circle, a municipally integrated food truck park. The result blends transportation improvements with placemaking to support both community life and economic vitality.

What connects these nine cities is a willingness to plan carefully, partner broadly, and act with purpose.

“Each of these initiatives reflects the kind of thoughtful, community-driven work happening in cities across Georgia every day,” said Larry Hanson, CEO and executive director of the Georgia Municipal Association. “They highlight strong ideas and strong partnerships, and offer examples other cities can learn from.”

View Entire Article Here

Chicago, IL- We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Backing Small Businesses grant program, supported by American Express. This nationwide initiative has awarded 400 grants of $10,000 to locally significant small businesses across the country, helping them fuel growth and continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The 400 grant recipients demonstrated both resilience and a strong local impact and vision for the future in their applications.

Grantees from Georgia:

Read More

Thomaston, GA-  At the start of Tuesday’s meeting of the Thomaston Mayor and Council, Mayor J.D. Stallings announced Congressman Brian Jack is sending $3 Million to City Hall for its proposed Downtown Pedestrian Safety Program– Apparently the largest appropriation in the 3rd District. The Mayor mentioned that the Congressman is sending Pike County some funding also with the passage of the House appropriations bill.

City Hall has been working with G-DOT and the University of Georgia on the Downtown Pedestrian Safety Project and the Mayor said he spoke with Congressman Jack Tuesday and learned of the $3 Million coming from Washington for the project and thanked him for the funding. It was mentioned during the meeting 16,000 vehicles cross the Downtown Square daily so the Pedestrian Safety Project has high priority.

Via National Main Street Center: We are proud to announce the eight recipients of our Small Business Accelerator Grant Program, presented in partnership with The Hartford. This $2 million, multi-year initiative supports the launch, growth, or expansion of new and existing small business accelerator spaces in Main Street communities across the country. From shared storefronts and mentorship hubs to subgrants for local small business owners, the program is designed to create more inclusive, resilient local economies.

Three established accelerator sites, including Sweet Auburn, have been awarded $25,000 grants to strengthen their operational infrastructure and increase their community reach. These funds will support strategic enhancements that improve service delivery, streamline operational efficiency, and increase their ability to serve local entrepreneurs. Congrats, Sweet Auburn!

The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation presented 23 awards recognizing the best of preservation in Georgia during its 48th annual Preservation Awards ceremony in Brunswick this past Saturday. Night Sky Coffee Roasters in Winder (pictured) received the Michael L. Starr Award, presented to a project that best exemplifies the highest standards of historic rehabilitation and has a significant impact on the downtown of the city in which it is located. Several #gamainst communities were highlighted, including Thomasville and Hawkinsville for downtown commercial properties. Congratulations!

The GM on Main Street Grant Program has awarded five $60,000 grants to nonprofit organizations and municipal government entities near GM facilities and to a tribal community within the Main Street network to implement innovative transportation initiatives in their local districts. Included among the recipients is the city of Avondale Estates, GA. Presented by General Motors, the GM on Main Street Grant Program champions place-based solutions that prioritize pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, inclusive urban design, and sustainable mobility.
The 2025 grant recipients include the City of Elgin (Elgin, TX), the Heart of Scottsville, Inc. (Scottsville, KY), the City of Avondale Estates (Avondale Estates, GA), the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City Transportation Department (Kansas City, KS), and the Forest County Potawatomi Community (Forest County, WI).

THOMASVILLE, GA – April 21, 2025 – The Rose City continues to shine nationally after receiving

recognition in various USA Today’s 10Best Lists. Following a nationwide vote, Thomasville garnered

fourth place for “Best Small Town Food Scene 2025”, seventh place for “Best Small Town in the South

2025,” and tenth place in “Best Flower Festivals in the US 2025.” The national recognition continues to

cement Thomasville’s status as a standout destination for travelers near and far.

“It is a significant accomplishment for USA Today travel experts to, once again, recognize us on each of

these lists,” said April Norton, City of Thomasville Managing Director of Marketing &

Communications. “To know that people across the country voted Thomasville in the top ten of each list,

is a true testament to the strength of the collaborative efforts necessary by our citizens, merchants, and

City leadership to make Thomasville the wonderful destination that it is.”

Lewisburg, West Virginia once again topped the list as the “Best Small Town Food Scene 2025,” with

Thomasville ranking fourth as the only city on the list from the state of Georgia. According to USA

Today, Thomasville is known for its quaint, timeless charm and diverse food scene featuring Southern

specialties and traditional comfort food, welcoming guests to experience a vast range of dining delights.

Thomasville also took home seventh place as the “Best Small Town in the South 2025.” This category

included towns with populations of less than 25,000, and USA Today noted Thomasville’s deep history

and Downtown overflowing with specialty shops and local cuisine. Thomasville was the only city in

Georgia included on the national list. For the second year in a row Starkville, Mississippi topped this

year’s list.

With roses in full bloom, the Rose Show & Festival was also recognized as one of the “Best Flower

Festivals in the US 2025.” The Rose Show landed tenth on the list with our neighbors from Ball Ground,

Georgia the Daffodil Festival at Gibbs Gardens taking the top spot. Breathtaking displays of roses,

Orchids on Parade, the Annual Standard Flower Show, a lively parade, and live music were among the

highlights identified by USA Today.

Thomasville also earned recognition in the USA Today 10 Best Lists in 2024 for both “Best Small Town

in the South” and “Best Small Town Food Scene.”

USA Today publishes their annual 10Best results throughout March and April. Travel experts and

editors across the country created the top ten lists, presenting the finalists to readers who could vote for

their favorites up to one time per day over the course of a month.

“A culinary scene with something for everyone, a vibrant and welcoming small town ambiance, and a

Rose Show & Festival that has blossomed every spring for the last 104 years, we are truly blessed with

the ability to provide locals and visitors with a diverse entertainment scene,” said Norton. “This

recognition reaffirms our standing as a must-visit travel destination.”