Tifton Downtown Development Authority discusses revitalization plan

(TIFTON, GA) – Commerce Way in Downtown Tifton may be about to undergo a major change.

The Tifton Downtown Development authority is planning a major facelift for the street in the hopes of attracting more businesses.

One that would include what they’re calling a *Bump Out* to revitalize interest.

“We are seeing a lot of investment, like i said, over on commerce way. There’s a lot of projects happening there with that. So there’s a lot of private and public investment happening on commerce way to bring it up to speed,” says Tifton Downtown Development Authority Director, Abbey McLaren.

McLaren points to such investments, that include the recent production shoot of the Bruce Willis movie, Gasoline Alley, as well as another film production starting in April.

All of which means more money going into The Friendly City.

McLaren tells us, “We have seen well over $100 thousand spent in hotel/motel revenue as well as economic dollars spent downtown.”

It’s not just the Downtown Development Authority who are excited about the prospect of revitalizing commerce street. Owners and organizers we spoke to say this is the shot in the arm the city needs.

“I think it’s helpful. Anything helps in these tough times. Anything the city development tries to do for us, it’s appreciated,” says local restaurant owner, Eliud Hernandez

While nonprofit thrift store manager, Venita Williams says, “They bring money to the community. I think it’s great they’re choosing Tifton. And I think it brings more people to us who wouldn’t normally be here.”

The Tifton Downtown Development authority says they are still pending city approval to make Commerce Way a one-way street.