Macon Magazine

February/March 2026 | maconmagazine.com 37 What do you think Macon needs to thrive? Message us @maconmagazine and we may publish the answer. ALL of us. We will still be the beautiful city by the river, but we will be the new and improved version. I believe that. Lester M. Miller Mayor of Macon-Bibb County Macon in 2035 will look different, but I hope it still feels the same in all the ways that matter most. We are a city that shows up, stands together, and takes care of one another, and that spirit will always define us. As we move forward together, we will see the impact of so many projects coming to life, from a new arena to Georgia's first National Park, revitalized neighborhoods, and countless community investments already underway. To thrive, our community must stay engaged, support local, and keep believing in what's possible here. Erin Keller Vice President of Development and Chief of Staff, NewTown Macon I am extremely optimistic about Macon's future. The progress of the past decade has been transformational, and if we stay the course, the next ten years can be just as pivotal. This community is knitted together by passion, resilience, and transparency, and downtown's success proves we already have the answers within Macon itself. In the decade ahead, we must intentionally focus on bringing resources—such as mobile food banks, resource fairs, and wraparound services—to the neighborhoods that need them most. With a national park designation, a new convention center, and an arena on the horizon, tourism is poised to become a leading driver of our economic development ecosystem. Finally, I hope Macon continues to embrace school choice while also showing strong, informed support for public education. For too long, the divide between public and private schools has slowed our progress. When our public schools are strong and our neighborhoods are supported, our entire community is stronger. justice, and sustainable flourishing for generations to come. Debbie Blankenship Director at Reg Murphy Center for Collaborative Journalism, Mercer University Macon is in a fantastic position to thrive. That's if the larger community commits to addressing educational inequality and our bifurcated public/private school systems. The public schools here can provide amazing opportunities, but it's common for people to accept second and third-hand views of the system that aren't grounded in the realities of all classrooms. For those who don't choose a public school path, take the opportunity to be a cheerleader. This takes a willingness from all of us — from parents and business owners to realtors and elected officials — to see that firsthand and share the message widely. Jim Crisp Founder, Theatre Macon I have been privileged to serve on the Urban Development Authority Board for nearly three years and have had a front row seat to some of the most ambitious and beneficial community planning that is happening. And that gives me the confidence to say Macon will continue to be a thriving and driving center in the state of Georgia and in our economy in numerous ways; business, education, entertainment, tourism and the ARTS. In ten years' time, our urban center will be fully transformed into one of the loveliest and most charming small cities in the South. I predict also that we will become one of the major destinations for all areas in the arts: theatre, dance, music, and festivals. Our new arena facility and hotel/conference center will make Macon the destination in the South for all kinds of meetings, conferences, and top tier entertainment. Our vastly improved educational system will make Macon ever more attractive to new corporate business from around the country. Macon will look much the same in many ways, but we will have new foundations built by the young visionaries who are working now every day for a better Macon for

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