The Hawkinsville Main Street Program was established in 2021 as part of a dedicated effort to revitalize and strengthen the economic vitality of Downtown Hawkinsville. Guided by the nationally recognized Main Street Approach, our program focuses on building a vibrant, thriving downtown by leveraging local assets, fostering community engagement, and promoting sustainable development.
In 2022, Hawkinsville proudly achieved designation as a Classic Main Street City, meeting national standards of performance and joining a network of communities committed to excellence in downtown revitalization.
Rooted in the four key pillars of Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Vitality, the Main Street Approach is a proven framework developed by the National Main Street Center. It balances economic growth with historic preservation and community pride—ensuring long-term success and a strong sense of place for all who live, work, and visit here.
Housed under the City of Hawkinsville, the program is overseen by the Hawkinsville Downtown Development Authority (HDDA)—a seven-member board appointed by the City’s Board of Commissioners. The Main Street & HDDA Executive Director also serves as the City’s Economic Development Director and reports directly to the HDDA and the City Manager.
Funding for the program is made possible through city support, rental revenue, and generous community donations. Whether it’s improving downtown management, recruiting new businesses, expanding parking, or enhancing our unique character, the Hawkinsville Main Street Program is committed to creating an engaging and prosperous environment for all.
OUR MISSION
Hawkinsville DDA is focused on restoring and growing a healthy, viable downtown commercial district, that will provide a high quality of life to its residents and visitors alike.
OUR VISION
Downtown Hawkinsville is at a crossroads and it is imperative that we direct our efforts toward growth and development for the downtown. Because of this, we will need support from volunteers, local businesses, partnering organizations and the public, all who share a belief that a strong downtown is an essential component to the integrity of a community. Collectively, we will develop a renewed commitment to the Main Street Four-Point approach to enhance the future of our downtown district.
The Hawkinsville Downtown Development Authority (HDDA) and Main Street Board play a pivotal role in revitalizing and promoting Downtown Hawkinsville. Comprised of seven board members appointed by the Hawkinsville City Commissioners, the DDA serves as the Main Street Board, operating under the City of Hawkinsville. These members are required to meet ten times per year and must obtain certificates in DDA and Main Street 101 training. Additionally, they must complete two hours of annual training courses to ensure they are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to effectively foster economic development and community engagement in downtown Hawkinsville.
Ken Clark
HDDA Chairman
Nevin Shennett
HDDA Board Member
Ramsey Howard
HDDA Vice Chairman
Ben Cravey
HDDA Board Member
Bree Harrell
HDDA Secretary & Treasurer
Sandy Smith
HDDA Board Member
Jill Hardin
HDDA Board Member
Laney Griffin
HDDA Ex Officio Board Member
A city’s historic preservation commission is responsible for protecting and enhancing the community’s architectural and cultural heritage. It typically reviews proposed changes to historic properties, ensures that renovations or new construction within designated districts follow established preservation guidelines, and promotes awareness of local history. In Hawkinsville, the Historic Preservation Commission—appointed by the City Commission—oversees the Downtown Historic District, helping maintain its historic character, guiding property owners through preservation standards, and supporting efforts to safeguard the area’s unique identity for future generations.
Nevin Shennett
HPC Chairman
Ken Clark
HPC Vice Chairman
Sandy Smith
HPC Secretary & Treasurer
Jamie McDonald
Economic Development & Main Street Director
Melissa Clay
Marketing Assistant
