Hinesville Main Street Program has been designated as an accredited Main Street America program for meeting performance standards set by the National Main Street Center.
Each year, the center and its coordinating program partners announce the list of accredited programs in recognition of their commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach.
“It is a great honor to recognize this year’s 828 nationally accredited Main Street America programs for their outstanding work to transform downtown and neighborhood commercial districts,” Patrice Frey, president and CEO of the center, said. “Main streets are the heart of our communities, and the work they do to create quality public spaces, catalyze local entrepreneurship, and support downtown housing is more important than ever. Across the county, Main Street America programs truly strengthen the economic, social, and cultural fabric of their entire communities.”
The organization’s performance is annually evaluated by Georgia Department of Community Affairs, which works in partnership with the center to identify programs that meet 10 standards. Evaluation criteria determines the communities with revitalization efforts and include standards such as fostering public-private partnerships, securing a budget, tracking program progress and preserving historic buildings.
Hinesville’s 2016 Community Impact Report shows an increase in private and public investment of $8.234 million, up $704,000 from 2015. Although, a few more total jobs were created in 2105, 2016 showed a net gain 106, 30 jobs above the previous year. Downtown events, attendance and volunteer hours were also up in 2016.
“Hinesville’s Main Street program is first class and has positively contributed to the growth of the downtown area,” Mayor Allen Brown said. “Our Hinesville Downtown Development Authority team and board are some of the hardest working individuals I have ever met, and their hard work and dedication is deserving of this recognition.”
HDDA Board Chairman John Baker said, “There has been great energy building in downtown. I am particularly excited about the increased interest in the arts and business communities working together.”
Crystal Caines, Main Street manager for the HDDA, agreed.
“Since taking this position 11 months ago, I have witnessed great changes to Hinesville’s downtown district, including the opening of the new public library and the growth of the university system,” she said. “Being a Hinesville native, I am excited to be part of this developing community and help bring new businesses and events to downtown.”
HDDA Board of Directors also oversees the Main Street Program. The program became accredited in 2015.