Downtown Hawkinsville is a Main Street program that works with Hawkinsville's Downtown Development Authority, government officials, and downtown businesses to focus on restoring and growing a healthy, viable downtown commercial district. Our e-news called, The Downtowner, will keep you updated on all the great things happening in Downtown Hawkinsville, including: projects, downtown events, community resources, and more!

The Georgia Cities Foundation was established in 1999 and is a 501 (c)(3) organization and a non-profit of the Georgia Municipal Association. In 2010, the Foundation was designated as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) by the United States Department of Treasury’s CDFI Fund. The mission of the Georgia Cities Foundation is to assist cities with their economic development efforts to revitalize and enhance downtown areas by partnering and facilitating capital projects through funding, training, and technical assistance.

Like the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Downtown Revolving Loan Fund, the Georgia Cities Foundation has a similar revolving loan fund that assists communities with revitalizing downtown areas by providing funding for quality downtown projects. The Georgia Cities Revolving Loan fund however does not have a population limit like the Downtown Development revolving loan fund.

Like DCA’s Downtown Revolving Loan Fund, funding for the Georgia Cities Foundation Revolving Loan Fund can reach up to $250,000 for viable downtown projects. The interest rate is also below market rate with a 10-year term and 15-year amortization after 10 years.

Georgia Cities Foundation recommends a financing structure of 50% project cost being financed through a lender, 40% being financed through low interest loan programs, and 10% being the developer’s equity. The loan may be to a Downtown Development Authority or a loan to a Downtown Development Authority with an intergovernmental agreement with the city, a lease or loan to a private owner/developer, or an intergovernmental agreement with the city and a sublease to a private owner/developer.

Applications are evaluated based on leadership, accountability, long-term sustainability, and potential for private investment. Projects should encourage other developments, add jobs, promote downtown housing, or add a cultural enrichment aspect to the area. Eligible projects include real estate acquisition, building rehabilitation, new construction, green space, and parks. Applications have to be submitted by a Downtown Development Authority or similar entity; however, the applicant is not required to pay back the loan, the subrecipient (business or developer) is required to do so.

Did I mention the Georgia Cities Foundation Revolving Loan Fund can be layered with DCA’s Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund allowing applicable and viable downtown projects up to $500,000 in loan funding?



If you’re a developer or business interested in purchasing a building or renovating a building in Downtown Hawkinsville and need a low interest loan to fund your project, call the Hawkinsville-Pulaski Economic Development Office to discuss your options at 478-892-3240 extension 6. 

The Hawkinsville Downtown Development Authority has ordered signs for Downtown Hawkinsville property owners to use while trying to lease or sale their property. We have For Lease, For Sale, and For Sale/Lease signs ready for you to pick so that you can market your property. Economic Development & Main Street Director, Jamie McDonald will also vet inquiries and help you find the best renter or buyer for your property. Please call Jamie Wilson at 478-892-3240 extension 6 and ask for a sign today!

The Hawkinsville Downtown Development Authority (HDDA) held its monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 10 AM at City Hall. All board members were present except Bree Harrell. HDDA Chairman Ken Clark called the meeting to order at 10:04 AM.

The first order of business was to approve the July 9, 2024, agenda. The agenda for July 9, 2024's, meeting was approved by all board members present.

Next the board approved the meeting minutes from June 11, 2024's, HDDA meeting and the June 2024 financials and bank statements.

After the HDDA Board reviewed information on 2-hour training requirement per year and training dates, upcoming HDDA Meeting, upcoming Main Street Annual Meeting Planning Session, upcoming board pictures, and upcoming events.

Lastly, Economic Development Director, Jamie McDonald, gave her Economic Development and Main Street Report.

The meeting covered key topics including financial approvals and important information. The HDDA continues to focus on downtown development and community engagement through various initiatives and projects.

At the June 11, 2024, annual meeting, the Hawkinsville Downtown Development Authority (HDDA) elected its executive board leadership for the 2024-2025 term. The elected officers include Ken Clark as Chairman, Ramsey Howard as Vice-Chairman, and Bree Harrell as Secretary and Treasurer.

The full HDDA board comprises of seven dedicated members: Ken Clark, Ramsey Howard, Bree Harrell, Jill Hardin, Ben Cravey, Laney Griffin, and Nevin Shennett. These volunteer board members are appointed by the Hawkinsville City Commissioners to serve as board members of both the Development Authority and the Main Street Board. To be eligible for the board, members must be business owners, property owners, or employees within the Hawkinsville Downtown Commercial District.  This ensures that the board is deeply connected to the local community and invested in the success of downtown Hawkinsville. All the HDDA board members own property or a business in Downtown Commercial District.

The Hawkinsville Downtown Development Authority and Main Street Board play a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and revitalization in the heart of the city. The HDDA is responsible for planning and implementing projects that encourage business development, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall quality of life in downtown Hawkinsville. This includes everything from coordinating beautification efforts to attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones. The Main Street program, which operates under the umbrella of the HDDA, focuses on preserving the historic character of downtown while promoting economic vitality. The board’s efforts are guided by the National Main Street Center’s four-point approach, which emphasizes organization, promotion, design, and economic vitality. Through these initiatives, the board works to make downtown Hawkinsville a vibrant, welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.

The 2024-2025 elected HDDA board members bring a wealth of experience and passion to their roles, and their leadership will be instrumental in driving the continued success of Downtown Hawkinsville. With their commitment to the community and a clear vision for the future, the HDDA and Main Street Board are well-positioned to lead downtown Hawkinsville into a new era of growth and revitalization.

Downtown revitalization is a collaborative effort that involves diverse stakeholders coming together to create a vibrant and thriving community. At the heart of this endeavor is the Main Street Committee, comprising of HDDA board members, business owners, merchants, downtown residents, and community members interested in downtown redevelopment. This collective effort is instrumental in shaping the future of Downtown, focusing on various aspects of redevelopment through specialized subcommittees.

These subcommittees collaborate closely under the Main Street Committee's umbrella, leveraging their unique expertise and perspectives to drive comprehensive Downtown redevelopment initiatives. Their collective efforts are guided by a shared vision of creating a dynamic, inclusive, and economically vibrant Downtown that serves as a hub of community life, cultural heritage, and economic opportunity.

Through ongoing collaboration, engagement with stakeholders, and strategic planning, the Main Street Committee and its subcommittees are instrumental in shaping Downtown's future and ensuring its continued growth and success. We encourage all downtown business owners, property owners, downtown employees, downtown residents, or any one interested in downtown redevelopment to sign up for one committee that you believe you could have the most impact with.

The Pulaski Tomorrow Class of 2022 is thrilled to announce the grand opening and ribbon cutting of The Green Space at 80 Commerce Street on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 6:30 PM. This much-anticipated event marks the beginning of a new chapter for our community, providing a vibrant and inviting outdoor area for everyone to enjoy.

The officially ribbon cutting ceremony will start at 6:30 PM. Following the ribbon cutting, stay and enjoy live music from two talented local artists, Jeremy King and Devin Gregory. Their performances will set the perfect tone for an evening of celebration and community spirit. Be sure to bring your lawn chairs, sit back, and relax as you soak in the wonderful atmosphere.

No celebration is complete without delicious food! Two food trucks will be on site, offering an array of tasty treats and refreshments. From savory snacks to sweet desserts, there will be something to satisfy every craving.

The Green Space at 80 Commerce Street is designed to be a hub for community activities, events, and gatherings. This grand opening is just the beginning of many exciting events to come. We invite everyone to come out and enjoy the beauty of our new park.

For more information about the event, please contact the Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Economic Development and Main Street Office at 478-892-3240 extension 2.

Attention Pulaski County residents! Showcase your artistic talent by participating in the annual Christmas Ornament Art Contest. The contest is a wonderful opportunity for artists to gain recognition, support local art projects, and give back to the community. The deadline for submissions is August 31, 2024, by 4:30 PM.

This year's theme is the historic Hawkinsville Hotel building. Artists are invited to create a design that captures the essence of this beloved landmark. To ensure consistency, all artwork must adhere to the following guidelines:

- The background of the artwork must be white.

- The artist's signature must be placed at the bottom of the work.

Artists must also be residents of Pulaski County and submit their work by the deadline to the Economic Development and Main Street Office at 56 Broad Street.

The winning artist will receive a $100 prize for their design. Additionally, the winner will receive another $100 to donate to a local charity organization of their choice. This contest not only celebrates artistic talent but also supports charitable causes and local art projects in the downtown area.

Don't miss this chance to contribute to the community and showcase your artistic skills. The Christmas Ornament Art Contest is a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season, honor the history of Hawkinsville, and support local art initiatives. We look forward to seeing your creative depictions of the Hawkinsville Hotel building!

For more information, please contact the Economic Development and Main Street Office at 478-892-3240 extension 6.

DATE: JULY 1, 2024

TIME: 10 AM

LOCATION: COUNTY ANNEX

The Pulaski County Commissioner will hold a monthly meeting on the first Monday of each month at 10:00 am in the Commissioner's office located at Courthouse Annex 45 S. Lumpkin Street. *Agenda for this meeting is posted on the bulletin board outside of the Commissioner's Office.

DATE: JULY 1, 2024

TIME: 6:00 PM

LOCATION: CITY HALL (56 Broad Street)

Regular Meetings of the Hawkinsville City Commissioner's take place on the first Monday of each month at 6:00 pm at City Hall (56 Broad Street). Agendas for Regular Meetings are prepared 3-5 days prior to the meeting and are posted on the bulletin board at City Hall.

DATE: JULY 9, 2024

TIME:10:00 AM

LOCATION: 56 BROAD STREET

The Hawkinsville Downtown Development will host a regular meeting on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 10 AM at City Hall's Commissioner meeting room.

DATE: JULY 9, 2024

TIME: 11 AM

LOCATION: 56 Broad Street

The Hawkinsville Preservation Commission will host a regular meeting on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at 11 AM at City Hall's Suite 102 Room 107.

DATE: JULY 27, 2024

TIME: 7 PM

LOCATION: 42 S. LUMPKIN STREET

The original and longest-running Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute show in the world! Second Helping is endorsed by members of Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band came together in 1988 due to their friendship with several Lynyrd Skynyrd members.

At a Lynyrd Skynyrd rehearsal in 1988, Second Helping was born. Many of the players in Skynyrd worked with members of Second Helping on specific parts, particularly Ed King and Randall Hall. Two of the members of Second Helping even played in the post- Skynyrd reunion tour band, The Randall Hall Band, in 1987, including Chris McCallister (guitar) and Rick King (bass).

This is a show you will NOT want to miss!

$30 – General Admission

Doors open at 6:00 PM



Tickets can be purchased online at www.hawkinsvilleoperahouse.com, at the Hawkinsville Opera House or by calling the Hawkinsville Opera House at 478-783-1884.

DATE: AUGUST 3, 2024

TIME: 6:30 PM

LOCATION: 80 Commerce Street

Join Pulaski Tomorrow Class of 2022 for the grand opening and ribbon cutting of The Green Space at 80 Commerce Street Park. Enjoy live music and food trucks following the ceremony.

DATE: AUGUST 5, 2024

TIME: 10 AM

LOCATION: COUNTY ANNEX

The Pulaski County Commissioner will hold a monthly meeting on the first Monday of each month at 10:00 am in the Commissioner's office located at Courthouse Annex 45 S. Lumpkin Street. *Agenda for this meeting is posted on the bulletin board outside of the Commissioner's Office.

DATE: AUGUST 5, 2024

TIME: 6:00 PM

LOCATION: CITY HALL (56 Broad Street)

Regular Meetings of the Hawkinsville City Commissioner's take place on the first Monday of each month at 6:00 pm at City Hall (56 Broad Street). Agendas for Regular Meetings are prepared 3-5 days prior to the meeting and are posted on the bulletin board at City Hall.

DATE: AUGUST 10, 2024

TIME: 10 AM

LOCATION: CABERO PARK

Join Downtown Hawkinsville's Main Street Program for the 3rd quarterly Downtown Clean-Up Day on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 10 AM to 12 PM. Check in will start at 12 PM and will be located at Cabero Park (115 Commerce Street).

We will be cleaning up trash in the downtown area, so wear clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty. Gloves and trash bags will be provided

DATE: AUGUST 13, 2024

TIME:10 AM

LOCATION: 56 BROAD STREET

The Hawkinsville Downtown Development will host a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at 10 AM at City Hall's Commissioner meeting room.

DATE: AUGUST 24, 2024

TIME: 7 PM

LOCATION: 42 S. LUMPKIN STREET

Chris and Alex are a local band that will be performing classic hits, country, and oldies. Come support them and the Opera House membership drive.

Tickets: $20 each or $30 for 2!

Tickets can also be purchased at the Hawkinsville Opera House or by calling 478-783-1884.

All tickets are general admission. Doors open at 6:00 pm.

DATE: AUGUST 30, 2024

TIME:6 PM

LOCATION: 42 LUMPKIN STREET

Join the Hawkinsville-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce for the Lumpkin Street Cruise-In on August 30th at 6 PM.