The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and the Georgia Cities Foundation (GCF) have announced that the cities of Clarkston, Perry, Union City and Warner Robins have successfully completed the Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative (GEPC), a two-year initiative designed to help communities strengthen downtowns and neighborhood centers through community-driven economic development strategies.
The graduating cities will be formally recognized during the 2026 GMA Annual Convention in Savannah.
Strengthening Communities Through Placemaking
The Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative provides participating cities with tools, technical assistance and peer networking opportunities to help communities identify and activate their unique assets. The program supports cities as they build local placemaking teams and develop projects that enhance public spaces, promote economic vitality and foster community pride.
Since its launch in 2018, the GEPC has supported communities across Georgia by helping local leaders create long-term revitalization strategies rooted in local culture, business growth and public engagement.
“Each of these communities brought creativity, commitment and strong local leadership to the placemaking process,” said Tara Bradshaw, leader of the Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative. “Clarkston, Perry, Union City and Warner Robins have demonstrated how intentional placemaking can strengthen local economies, build community pride and create places where people want to live, work and gather. We are excited to celebrate their accomplishments and see how their work continues to evolve.”
Collaborative Partnerships Drive Success
The GEPC emphasizes collaboration among local stakeholders, business leaders, municipal officials and community organizations. Participating cities also gain access to the Placemaking Grant Program, which supports creative, community-led projects that activate public spaces and encourage economic activity.
The collaborative is supported through partnerships with Georgia Power, the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the Georgia Council for the Arts, the Georgia Tech Center for Economic Development Research, Electric Cities of Georgia, Georgia Conservancy and GeorgiaForward. These organizations provide technical expertise, resources and guidance to help communities successfully implement placemaking initiatives.
Looking Ahead
Cities interested in participating in the next Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative cohort will be able to apply beginning in September 2026. Selected communities will join a growing network of Georgia cities working to enhance economic development through place-based strategies.
To learn more about the Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative and other Georgia Cities Foundation programs, visit georgiacitiesfoundation.org.