ANNISTON, Ala.– Holiday crowds are returning to Alabama’s downtowns, but few cities reflect the transformation more clearly than Anniston. Once struggling with vacant storefronts and underused historic buildings, Anniston is now seeing record investment, new businesses, and growing foot traffic — momentum fueled in large part by its participation in Main Street Alabama.
The program, active in 34 designated communities across the state, focuses on restoring historic downtowns as walkable centers for business, culture, and community life. According to Main Street Alabama President and State Coordinator Mary Helmer Wirth, the shift back to downtowns is unmistakable.
“The pendulum has swung back,” Wirth said. “People are hungry for a place to call theirs. Downtowns belong to everybody.”
Anniston’s results stand out statewide. Since joining Main Street Alabama, the city has welcomed 70 new businesses, created 229 jobs, and generated more than $71 million in combined public and private investment. New destinations such as Coldwater Mountain Brewpub, Sinclair Social, Old Noble, Bloom by Rosa Lee, and Crest Mercantile have helped redefine the downtown experience.
Executive Director Karla Eden says the growth reflects years of intentional planning and partnership.
“The businesses that have come in have changed the way people experience downtown Anniston,” Eden said. “You can feel the energy, and it continues to build.”
A major boost came with a $750,000 historic revitalization grant, which will fund upgrades such as elevators, fire suppression systems, and code compliance in long-vacant buildings — removing major barriers for developers and small business owners.
“That grant is a game changer,” Eden said. “It lowers the cost of restoring historic properties and opens doors for entrepreneurs who want to invest downtown.”
Anniston has also adopted a new five-year strategic plan, refreshed its branding, and expanded its reach beyond the region, drawing visitors from across Alabama and neighboring states.
While Main Street Alabama has helped spark revitalization in cities like Leeds and Calera, Anniston’s scale of investment and business growth highlights what is possible when long-term strategy, public-private partnerships, and community buy-in align.
As the holiday season brings renewed crowds to downtown Anniston, the city’s resurgence stands as one of the strongest examples of how Main Street Alabama is reshaping communities — not just for the season, but for the future.
