Main Street Program

The National Main Street organization was founded on the goal of economic development within the context of historic preservation.  This concept allows for new development that is compatible with the existing downtown physical environment.  Through the Main Street approach, a community can reestablish its self-reliance and rebuild its downtown based on its traditional assets:  personal service, local ownership, unique architecture, and a sense of community. 

Bainbridge was designated a Georgia Main Street City in 1991.  The Bainbridge Main Street program has been recognized as a National Main Street Community every year since July 2003 for commercial district revitalization by meeting standards for performance set by the National Trust for Historic Preservation's National Main Street Center.  The annual recognition program evaluates commercial district revitalization programs by criteria like:  broad based public support, historic preservation ethic, active board of directors, adequate funding, a paid professional manager and reporting of economic progress by providing statistical information.

Services Provided

• Sponsors special events and advertising to bring customers into downtown Bainbridge.
• Provides a listing of available properties in the downtown area to new and relocating businesses.
• Publish a monthly newsletter to keep members and volunteers informed of events and happenings in downtown Bainbridge.
• Serves as a liaison between business and property owners and the City of Bainbridge to find solutions to problems.
• Provides a Property Listing of downtown properties available for purchase or lease.
• Aggressively pursues redevelopment of threatened areas or properties through the Bainbridge Downtown Development Authority.

Low Interest Loan Pool 

Program is administered through the Bainbridge Downtown Development Authority.  The purpose of the Low Interest Loan Pool is to encourage the continuation of economic revitalization within the historic central business district of Bainbridge.  The loan pool offers an incentive for investment and improvement projects, so as to maintain a viable and competitive downtown.

Types of Loans available

1. Facade Rehabilitation Loan:  any work performed on the facade or any part of the building facing the public right-of-way.  Signs, awnings, painting or any type of permanent improvement qualifies.
2. Structural Improvement Loan:  applies to both interior and exterior rehabilitations.  Roofing, mortar and masonry, electrical re-wiring, structural modifications, air conditioning and other permanent improvements qualify.
3. Real Estate Acquisition Loan:  applies to the acquisition of a building and/or land within the Main Street district.  Loan funds are only available if the acquisition if part of an overall project.

Facade Grant Program

The Bainbridge Main Street Facade Incentive Program is funded and is administered by the Bainbridge Downtown Development Authority.

Monies are available for exterior improvements only, and may be applied to a front, side or rear facade, provided the facade faces a public street or parking area.  The program is designed to give property owners and business owner's financial assistance for facade improvement.  A maximum amount of $1,000 per building is available.