Creating space: Macon’s 2020 in pictures
Previously overlooked, public spaces became opportunities to prioritize during an unprecedented year
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Reimagining the Civic Commons cities found unique and safe ways to encourage the use of public spaces at a time when members of their communities needed connection more than ever. Today, the third in our series of photo essays celebrating public space efforts in cities across the country features Macon, Ga.
Macon’s civic commons efforts are centered on the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, already one of the most popular and diverse places in the city. Through Macon’s efforts it will be expanded into a network of trails and median parks designed to make an even greater impact. The reimagined trail network will connect diverse and disconnected neighborhoods, reduce barriers to wealth creation and help support a thriving downtown. It will also function as a backbone to other civic asset improvements, supporting a more inclusive, sustainable and economically strong community.
Public spaces support business
While 2020 was a challenging year, Macon leveraged its civic commons to continue to connect people and support local businesses. By highlighting its median parks in the downtown core, they brought diverse groups together and created new opportunities for businesses to sell goods and connect with customers safely.
Creating new value downtown
Macon continued advancing the development of its downtown by financing the city’s first boutique hotel overlooking Rosa Parks Square with a public bond issuance. This project will transform a former municipal building, adding value to the community and supporting two green spaces nearby that highlight the civil rights legacy of Macon in Willie Hill Plaza and Rosa Parks Square.
Meanwhile, members of the Rosa Parks Square board of directors rededicated their efforts to revitalizing these public spaces. With a vision and message that brings people together, the board secured nearly $1 million in funding for the refreshed park effort.
A new way to use city streets
Macon’s “Open Streets” work pivoted to a direct neighborhood activation approach. Each Open Streets event improved a crosswalk adjacent to the local community center to make the areas safer for children and families.
An expanded trail for a more connected future
And binding it all together is the expansion of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail into downtown. The team broke ground on phase one of the Third Street revamp and trail expansion this year, implementing the road diet between Riverside and Walnut thanks to grants from the Community Foundation of Central Georgia.
Next up: Lexington, Ky.
Reimagining the Civic Commons is a collaboration of The JPB Foundation, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, The Kresge Foundation, William Penn Foundation, and local partners.
