2012 Campaign
NewTown is in the process of refining the components of its third revitalization phase and preparing to launch a new campaign. We want your ideas, your involvement, and eventually your investment in the 2012 Campaign. You can provide feedback on the Contact page. Check this page for regular updates on the planning process.
To learn more about NewTown’s recent accomplishments, visit the 2007 Campaign page.
Below is some preliminary information on the Campaign focuses.
Residents
Residential development in downtown Macon is critical to the city’s success in attracting jobs, growing the economy, and creating a vibrant community. NewTown must help meet the challenge of securing financing in the present economic climate for mixed use projects.
Initiatives may include:
- Equity Fund for infusing capital into shovel-ready projects to add 150 lofts
- Transitional Property Fund for buying and stabilizing key properties
Jobs
NewTown has successfully recruited new businesses to downtown Macon but a concentrated, block by block effort, in tandem with other redevelopment initiatives is needed.
Initiatives may include:
- Recruitment Fund to entice anchor businesses
- Marketing tools to reach new investors and entrepreneurs
Place
Downtown Macon has much to offer – historic architecture, a rich musical heritage, quality higher education opportunities, and a distinctive mix of dining and entertainment venues. NewTown will continue raising our city’s visibility while providing unique cultural and recreational opportunities.
Initiatives may include:
- Extending the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail including connections to historic neighborhoods
- Completing a $5 million renovation of Amerson Water Works Park
- Sustaining the recently launched Gateway Initiative and its campaign to promote Macon to regional and national audiences
Advocacy
NewTown was founded to marshal leadership and resources, and NewTown will continue to advocate for initiatives that will make the city more competitive.
Initiatives may include:
- Promoting consolidation of city and county governments
- Supporting passenger rail between Macon and Atlanta and the future Transportation SPLOST
- Keeping the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame a viable downtown institution