CITY OF GAINESVILLE NEWS RELEASE:
“Main Street Gainesville has been named “Downtown of the Year” at the 2025 Georgia Downtown Conference.
As the highest recognition given by the Georgia Downtown Association (GDA), this award celebrates a community that has demonstrated extraordinary success in downtown revitalization through visionary leadership, strategic planning and impactful economic development.
The Downtown of the Year award is presented to a community that not only sets a high bar for excellence, but also serves as an inspiring model for others across the state of Georgia. Gainesville was selected for its outstanding achievements in strengthening its downtown through collaborative partnerships, sustained investment, and a strong focus on placemaking and community engagement.
“Gainesville exemplifies what it means to create a thriving, people-centered downtown that honors its history while embracing innovation,” said GDA President Aundi Lesley. “Their long-term commitment, thoughtful planning and ability to bring people together have resulted in a downtown that is truly the heart of the community.”
Over the past few years, the City has contributed to the district’s momentum and success. These efforts reflect a shared vision and deep belief in the role of downtown as an economic and cultural driver.
“We at the City of Gainesville are very honored to be recognized as the 2025 Georgia Downtown Association Downtown of the Year,” said Gainesville City Manager Bryan Lackey. “We are excited to host the 2025 Georgia Downtown Conference and share our ‘overnight 10-year story’ with others. We hope many downtown professionals from across the Peach State will be able to glean some ideas they can take back to their respective cities to continue efforts to make all Georgia downtowns thriving places to enjoy.”
Each year, GDA recognizes outstanding downtowns, projects and individuals who demonstrate leadership and excellence in downtown development. The Downtown of the Year award affirms the exceptional efforts of Gainesville and celebrates the community’s ongoing dedication to building a vibrant, inclusive and resilient downtown.
“The City of Gainesville has experienced restoration, revitalization and growth like never before, especially in the area of the historic square, which has drawn more and more residents and visitors downtown to enjoy some of the very best dining, entertainment/events, retail, services, etc.,” said Main Street Gainesville Manager Nicole Parham. “I’m beyond honored to work with a team — City management, directors and the Gainesville City Council — who not only loves present-day Gainesville, but wants the best for its future and those in it. We here at the City are not only proud of our roots, but proud of the progress made to ensure Gainesville is the place people want to be 10, 20 — 50 years from now.”
GDA’s annual awards program highlights outstanding efforts in revitalization and celebrates the people and projects shaping the future of Georgia’s downtowns.
The award was presented Wednesday, Aug. 27, in Gainesville, where the City was commended for their vision, creativity and the positive impact of their downtown.
About the Georgia Downtown Association
The Georgia Downtown Association (GDA) is a nonprofit statewide organization that connects communities and professionals committed to downtown vitality. GDA provides accredited training programs for downtown development professionals, advocates for Georgia’s downtowns, and educates private and public sectors on the economic benefits of a thriving downtown. GDA also hosts the annual Georgia Downtown Conference to offer top-notch educational training and networking opportunities.”