On Thursday, April 8th, The Business Improvement District (BID), the Peyton Anderson Foundation, and Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification announced the completed renovation of the Poplar Street park median between Second Street and Third Street. The renovation of this park completes the Poplar Yards concept in the original Macon Action Plan and creates a welcoming public space for all to enjoy in downtown Macon.

“It is the goal of the Downtown Macon Business Improvement District to wisely invest the dollars that the downtown property owners have provided for the benefit of all those who live, work, and play downtown,” said Tom Wight, chair of the BID. “The completion of the Poplar Yards project is an example of our commitment to provide attractive and usable outdoor space that will be used by many downtown patrons.”

The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the necessity of outdoor public spaces for communities across the country. During the pandemic, NewTown Macon added seating to this park median that was promptly used by community members as a place to enjoy take-out from downtown restaurants and spend time outside their homes. The increased use of the space in the summer and fall illustrated a need and desire for a park that would allow more people to gather passively in the heart of downtown. Recognizing the value of this public space, the Peyton Anderson Foundation provided a generous donation for the park renovation that the BID matched.

"The Peyton Anderson Foundation remains steadfast in our dedication to cementing downtown Macon as the vibrant urban hub of Central Georgia, while intentionally increasing opportunities for businesses and residents to thrive here,” said Karen Lambert, President and CEO of the Peyton Anderson Foundation. “We believe public parks are essential to our growth and wellbeing as a community. This reclaimed greenspace is just one more example of what visionary leadership and public-private partnerships can accomplish.”

This project is one of the ways the BID responsibly uses tax dollars from downtown property owners to make downtown Macon cleaner, greener, and safer. The BID partnered with Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification to maximize the use of funds for the project. Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification provided labor, oversight of the project, and guidance to ensure the park design can be properly maintained.

“Renovating this park was a goal for me from day one,” said Michael Glisson, director of Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification. “It was a pleasure to team up with the BID to improve this space and make it more accessible for everyone in Macon-Bibb County.”