The Georgia Main Street Program announced on May 6 that its network of 101 designated communities statewide reported more than $1.01 billion in public and private reinvestment for the year 2025.
The new figures highlight continued momentum for downtown revitalization efforts across Georgia. The reported investments resulted in the creation of 1,386 new businesses, 5,463 jobs, and the construction of 979 new housing units. Additionally, there were 1,402 rehabilitation projects completed and 773 public improvement projects undertaken by participating communities.
“These numbers tell a powerful story about what’s happening in downtowns across Georgia,” said Cherie Bennett, Director of the Office of Downtown Development. “Surpassing $1 billion of investment in a single calendar year is a remarkable milestone and proof that Georgia’s downtowns are powerful economic engines.”
According to program data, local initiatives hosted over 24,500 promotional events that drew more than 10.8 million attendees throughout the year. Volunteers also contributed over 152,000 hours of service valued at approximately $4.9 million.
Georgia Main Street communities operate as part of the Main Street America Network and follow an approach focused on Economic Vitality, Design, Promotion, and Organization to enhance their downtown districts while supporting small businesses and preserving historic character.
Since its inception in 1980, the Georgia Main Street Program has assisted more than one hundred communities with revitalizing their downtown areas. The program’s leaders say these efforts continue to deliver meaningful results for towns across the state.