The Georgia Department of Community Affairs announced on May 12 that several communities have received updated program designations within the Georgia Main Street Network for the 2026 program year. The changes highlight progress in organizational capacity, downtown revitalization, and alignment with state and national Main Street standards.
Kennesaw and Nashville were named accredited Classic Main Street communities. This status indicates full, national accreditation through Main Street America. According to the department, Classic designation is awarded to communities that demonstrate strong local leadership, effective work planning, active board governance, and measurable progress in economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization. The advancement of Kennesaw and Nashville reflects their ongoing investment in building vibrant downtown areas.
Seven additional Georgia cities—Auburn, Blakely, Fairburn, Jasper, Metter, Rockmart, and Watkinsville—were promoted to Affiliate Main Street status. This designation recognizes cities that have strengthened their program structure and increased local engagement while showing readiness to move forward within the Main Street framework. These Affiliate communities will receive enhanced technical assistance and resources to help support further growth.
“These promotions acknowledge the hard work and dedication of local leaders who are committed to strengthening the heart of their communities,” said DCA Commissioner Christopher Nunn. “We congratulate each of these cities on their accomplishments and look forward to supporting their continued downtown success.”
The Georgia Main Street Program is coordinated by the Office of Downtown Development as part of a national network focused on building strong local economies through historic preservation and community-driven revitalization efforts. More than 100 communities across Georgia participate annually.
For more information about the Georgia Main Street Program or its Office of Downtown Development initiatives for participating cities in future years can be found at www.georgiamainstreet.org.
