"Through resources made available by Georgia Main Street, our city has become more knowledgeable of what a thriving downtown should look like. Sharing that knowledge with our merchants and Main Street partners has led to growth in economic development, an increase in foot traffic, and the awareness of how a Main Street program benefits the entire community." Qaijuan Willis, Americus Main Street
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 state and in the Southeast.
Latest News
Get Ready for Small Business Saturday
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! It’s almost Small Business Saturday — the annual holiday shopping tradition that gets communities everywhere out in support of their favorite small businesses. Held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, and founded by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday will fall on Nov. 30th this year. Click here to visit the Shop […]
Read MoreODD Team Expanding
The Office of Downtown Development is excited to announce the addition of Matthew Dean to our team as Community Design Specialist. Matthew studied landscape architecture at UGA’s College of Environment & Design while working for DCA as a graduate assistant where he developed an interest in urban design. Currently, he and his wife, Maddison, reside in […]
Read MoreFast Facts
Number of Georgia Main Street Cities
New Jobs created in 2018
Completed Building Rehabilitation Projects in 2018
Total Volunteer hours invested in 2018
Total Private and Public Investment in 2018
Main Street of the Month
Athens, GA
“The Athens Downtown Development Authority (ADDA) works to create an economically sustainable, vibrant, and viable downtown. Downtown Athens is an active community, with more than 300 businesses including national and local retail shops, music venues, and award-winning restaurants. Festivals, concerts, and bicycle and foot races contribute to Athens’ unique character, as do frequent art events and installations, farmers’ and arts markets, a thriving musical community, and of course University of Georgia’s cultural and athletic events. The Georgia Main Street Program has enabled ADDA to further support our business and cultural community via their financial incentives, educational opportunities, and design studio.” –Athens DDA / Main Street Program
