A one million-dollar Appalachian Regional Commission grant has been awarded to the City of Cedartown for enhancement of the downtown corridor.
Appalachian Regional Commission funds will be used improve three areas of downtown Cedartown: the asphalt and gravel area located at Main Street and Knight’s Alley, the parking area between Herbert Street and Woodland Street, and the parking lot adjacent to the Ideal Bakery.
A fourth site, which includes the parking lot and alleyway at Herbert Street and Stubbs Street, will also see improvements from local funding.
According to City Manager Edward Guzman, the grant award could not have come at a better time.
“Our downtown has increasingly become more active over the last several years. New businesses have opened, nightlife opportunities have been established, and downtown loft living has become incredibly popular,” he explained. “With the growth and continued private investment from businesses, it’s just a natural next step for the City to devote resources to the enhancement of these areas. We are so appreciative of the Appalachian Regional Commission’s assistance in supporting us in this forward-thinking vision.”
These sites were specifically selected for the enhancement project to create accessibility, enhance pedestrian safety, support existing and future businesses, and create a unified and consistent streetscape, with a goal of attracting newbusinesses to the town.
Downtown Cedartown is classified as an historic district, with storefronts dating to the late 19th century. During the 20th century, disinvestment of residential property immediately adjacent to the downtown gave way to clearing for vehicle parking areas. Parking areas like the ones slated for enhancement are critical to downtown areas, especially those like Cedartown with limited street parking.
“What exists now are basic paved or gravel filled lots”, Guzman said. “Washed out areas, crumbling curbs or no curb at all, no sidewalks, not enough lighting features or greenspaces, things that can make so much difference in accessibility and just general appearance.” Preliminary designs show these areas completely transformed with tree canopies, landscape islands and brick features, lighting improvements, curb and gutter, and sidewalks.
While sufficient in the past, these parking areas are in need of general repairs as well as purposeful design in order to encourage and promote economic development in Cedartown, explained Cedartown City Commission Chair Jessica Payton. “When we have residents stepping up to plan amazing block parties and business owners creating special events to highlight local business and talent, we have to match that enthusiasm and growth. Not only does it help the events and businesses that are already happening, it sets the stage for future investment and growth,” said Payton. “This has been on our project radar for several years. With the ARC’s financial support, we can finally get moving and check it off our list.”
Improvements are slated to start in 2024 with the total project lasting about a year. Both Guzman and the Cedartown City Commission expressed appreciation and thanks to City staff members involved in the grant application process, as well as the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission for their assistance with the grant application.
The corridor enhancement project is not the only ARC-assisted project the City of Cedartown is working on. The Lankford Corner at the Silver Comet project was awarded a $750,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant back in 2023. The project is nearing the end of the design phase and construction will begin next year. Once complete, Lankford Corner at The Silver Comet will be a thoughtfully designed, large-capacity indoor and outdoor event venue.
The building will be located on land that was donated by the late Jim and Jean Lankford, lifelong community champions and supporters of Downtown Cedartown. The land is situated across from the Cedartown Depot on South Main Street and runs parallel to The Silver Comet Trail.
With the capability of housing 300+ guests, Lankford Corner will boast large roll-up doors, creating a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor. The facility itself will carry a large footprint, however the entire Lankford Corner concept will encompass the entire 1-acre downtown location. A catering kitchen, reception area and restrooms are part of the overall design. Food truck parking, public parking and intentional and inviting rest areas are features of the outdoor area.
