Gov. Nathan Deal announced today that 13 Georgia cities were recently awarded for outstanding achievement in urban design, economic development, organizational projects and downtown promotions at the annual Georgia Downtown Conference Awards of Excellence ceremony. The ceremony, held Aug. 21 in Decatur, was the culmination of a week-long conference for the state’s downtown developers.
“Our downtowns are the heart of our communities, and these award-winning cities set the standard for downtowns across the state and nation,” said Deal. “A vibrant, economically robust downtown is a sign of an actively engaged community committed to enhancing its economic competitiveness and its quality of life.”
“We know that great downtowns are huge economic assets to their communities,” said Georgia Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Gretchen Corbin. “These awards recognize the effort and dedication of many people – elected officials, staff, volunteers and citizens – and encourage other communities to explore ways to enhance their downtowns.”
In March 2014 the Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge completed a downtown master plan. The main work program item was to create a downtown branding campaign. Downtown Bainbridge has lacked the presence of its own brand. We began the branding campaign by creating a logo, gateway and directional signage, and promotional materials.
Citizens were surveyed and asked what Bainbridge means to them. Old southern town, hometown, roots, classic American architecture, the river, love of outdoors and nature, welcoming people and close-knit community were all words that citizens used to describe Bainbridge. Local graphic designer, Nikki Rich of Rich Graphics, suggested the logo should have a historic, traditional feel while keeping it fresh and modern. The colors chosen are historic and complement the paint schemes present in downtown today. “We are very honored and excited to have been chosen as the recipient of the Gold Award for Organization in Downtown Development, said Downtown Development Authority Director Amanda Glover.
More than 50 communities across Georgia garnered nominations this year, with 13 selected for gold, silver or bronze awards in each of the four categories. “The number and quality of the awards for these outstanding projects reminds us that the hard work of each individual community, no matter how large or small, contributes to making Georgia a great state in which to live, work and play,” said Georgia Downtown Association President Tommy Lowmon.
The Annual Awards of Excellence is the culmination of another year of hard work and an opportunity to showcase the successes of our local communities, volunteers and hard-working downtown development professionals, said Office of Downtown Development Director Billy Peppers.”
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