Jasper, Ala. (Aug. 21, 2025) — Downtown Gadsden, Inc. is excited to announce it was recognized for its

impactful work at the twelfth annual Awards of Excellence banquet. The event was sponsored by Energy

Southeast, UB Community Development, and the Walker Area Community Foundation.

The Awards of Excellence committee selected Downtown Gadsden, Inc. for the following awards:

Excellence in Marketing – Banner Project

Excellence in Building Design (Non-Historic) – Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts Renovation

Excellence in Public Art – Pitman Hands Mural

“Last night’s event was a heartwarming celebration of the remarkable achievements of our local Main Street programs,” said Wirth. “The inspiring success stories shared at the event truly highlighted the essence of

community spirit and collaboration. It’s a testament to the effectiveness of Main Street’s Four-Point Approach in fostering economic development and preserving historic areas.”

Local programs also selected a Main Street Hero that honored an individual, business, or organization that made an outstanding contribution to their program. These Heroes were recognized at the Toast to Heroes Reception sponsored by Regions Bank prior to the banquet. Tom Banks was chosen for the work performed and positive impact made on behalf of Downtown Gadsden, Inc. and its community.

“We are grateful for the hard work that was executed to make the Main Street 2025 LAB conference the best yet” said Kay Moore, DGI Director. “Mary Helmer Wirth and the staff of Main Street Alabama compiled an excellent program and with the help of Jasper Main Street’s Mike Putman and Renae Wilson, everything was perfect!”

Main Street Alabama is a non-profit organization which stresses public-private partnerships, broad community

engagement, and strategies that create jobs, spark new investment, attract visitors, and spur growth in core commercial districts. Main Street builds on the authentic history, culture, and attributes of specific places, to bring sustainable change. For a list and location of all 34 Designated and 32 Network Main Street Alabama

communities, visit mainstreetalabama.org/our-communities.