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
Ringgold, Ga
With deep Appalachian roots, a rich musical heritage, and a community that knows how to get things done, Downtown Ringgold is making big moves while staying true to its small-town spirit!
Since 2024, the Ringgold Downtown Development Authority has invested more than $5 million into downtown revitalization and secured an impressive $2.1 million in grant funding to help bring their vision to life. From supporting local businesses through façade grants and developing a business accelerator space to strengthening community partnerships, Ringgold is laying the groundwork for a downtown that’s as vibrant as it is welcoming.
And if there’s one thing Ringgold knows how to do, it’s bring folks together! Beloved annual traditions like 1890s Days, Dolly Days, and the Haunted Depot draw visitors from near and far, filling downtown with music, laughter, and plenty of hometown pride. The DDA has also invested thousands into the historic Ringgold Depot Opry, keeping one of the community’s most treasured landmarks alive with performances spanning musical genres.
But Ringgold isn’t resting on its laurels! With continued streetscape beautification efforts and future improvements to the Benton Coal Yard project on the horizon, there’s plenty more to look forward to in this North Georgia gem.
And here’s a little fun fact worth singing about: Dolly Parton herself tied the knot in Downtown Ringgold! It’s just one more piece of the town’s colorful history that makes this Main Street something special.
Congratulations to Downtown Ringgold on being named our Georgia Main Street of the Month! Your dedication to preserving local character while investing in a bright future is what Main Street is all about.
