Blackshear, Ga. — With a vision for a more vibrant downtown, Blackshear officials are pinning their hopes on the Downtown Development Authority to spearhead this revitalization effort. The goal is to enhance the area’s appeal and economic activity by drawing in fresh business ventures.

According to Bethany Strickland, Blackshear’s Main Street manager, what sets the downtown area apart is its unique charm, untainted by the presence of large chain or big-box retailers. “Our catchphrase sums it up well: Boutiques, antiques, and good eats,” she explained, highlighting the distinctive character of the local offerings.

This newly formed Downtown Development Authority will collaborate closely with the pre-existing ‘Better Hometown and Main Street program.’ Together, these efforts are expected to foster a thriving local business environment that capitalizes on the area’s unique charm and community-focused atmosphere.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will work in partnership with the already in place ‘Better Hometown and Main Street program.’

Those programs focus more on marketing and events, while the DDA will focus on economic development and bringing new industries into town.

The seven volunteers on the board, comprised of a city official and business owners, are tasked with purchasing buildings downtown, rehabbing them and renting them out.

“So we can give them an opportunity to rent a building from the DDA and then maybe they want to buy that building, and then we use those profits to buy something else, and it’s just a continuous cycle,” said Strickland. 

“So Blackshear is a small town, but we’re full of life,” said Zach Lee, owner of ‘Zach & Isabelle’ hair salon on Main Street. 

He said he’s excited to see how the DDA will transform the area.

“I think Blackshear is on the cusp of revival around here, of businesses moving in and new things coming. I think the developing authority is going to help revitalize and bring in new business.”

The first thing the organization will do is train, then purchase vacant lots to transform.

First Coast News asked how much money will be spent, and who’s paying for it. So far, they’re working on those important details.