Thomaston DDA hears facade-grant updates, sets Main Street advisory-board steps

Taylor Smith, Economic Development Director for the City of Thomaston, told the Downtown Development Authority that several facade-grant projects are progressing: Maple Mills should begin in the coming months, Milltown Bath & Candle is expected to be ready for reimbursement by September, and work on the Pettigrew-White-Stamps House is underway. Smith reminded the board that he has a list of "target properties" for potential facade projects and encouraged members to reach out to potential applicants, noting that funding for the 2026 cycle is still available.

Colleen Cook, Economic & Community Engagement Manager, reported the Thomaston Main Street Advisory Board was formally established at the July meeting and presented a flyer proposing a lunch & learn on August 14 at the Upson County Courthouse. Cook said the plan is to solicit applications after the lunch & learn and appoint advisory-board members between the September and October meetings; she added that once members are appointed the Georgia Main Street Program will lead a Main Street 101 training.

Smith also gave brief updates on other downtown projects, mentioning Avi's on Main and the Thomaston Exchange, and announced a groundbreaking for the Eliot's Crossing development set for Sept. 4. He invited board members to the Georgia Downtown Conference in Rome, Aug. 17–19. The board later met in executive session to discuss real estate and adjourned at 10:06 a.m.