ABOUT MAINSTREET ASSOCIATION
The inception of the Georgia Main Street Program dates back to 1980 when it was established as one of the pioneering state coordinating programs under the National Main Street Initiative, initiated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Originally launched with five local communities, the program has now expanded to serve over 100 communities across the state. The Georgia Main Streets program showcases the most vibrant central business districts in both Georgia and the Southeast region.
Since its inception, the designated community programs have played a crucial role in spearheading historic preservation efforts, fostering the development of small businesses, expanding employment opportunities, attracting private investments, boosting tourism, and establishing effective public-private partnerships. The program is administered by the Office of Downtown Development at the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and is recognized as a prominent initiative for community development and revitalization in Georgia’s historic downtown areas.