In February 2024, the GM on Main Street Grant Program awarded five $50,000 grants to nonprofit organizations and municipal government entities near GM facilities to implement innovative placemaking initiatives in their local districts. 

Among these grantees was the City of Columbia, Tennessee, a Main Street America accredited community, which embarked on an ambitious downtown revitalization project to add curb extensions, greenspace, and two informational kiosks to downtown Columbia.

Although the City of Columbia already had an attractive and vibrant downtown, improvements were needed to provide safer conditions for pedestrians and motorists while creating an enhanced placemaking experience. The improvements made through the grant funding improved the downtown for pedestrians and motorists, added more greenspaces and passive areas for downtown visitors to enjoy, and fostered a stronger sense of place by highlighting Columbia’s unique down businesses, attractions, and history.

Curb extensions were designed to slow traffic, reduce street crossing distances, and create smoother transitions for everyone, including those using strollers and wheelchairs. Different sizes and styles of planters fill the downtown with flowers and greenery, helping elevate the area by creating a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The new greenery has added new energy to the area, creating a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere. With the addition of the two informational kiosks, tourists are able to identify places to eat, shop, and visit while in downtown Columbia.

The project’s reach has been impressive. An estimated 76,600 community residents and visitors have already benefited from the improvements. The transformation has created a more inviting downtown environment, encouraged community interaction, and supported local businesses.

Main Street Manager and Project Lead Kelli Johnson noted that the downtown is the ​“heartbeat of our community and the top destination for tourists.” The improvements build upon that foundation to create additional value, with spaces now being used for community events like First Fridays, featuring live entertainment and activities that draw families together.

While the GM grant provided the primary funding, the project was a true community endeavor. The city mobilized resources from multiple departments, including Public Works, Development Services, Tourism and Marketing, and Parks and Recreation. The project engaged eight contractors and leveraged an impressive 1,300 volunteer hours. It also resulted in a new partnership with the Maury County Master Gardeners, demonstrating how such initiatives can foster community connections and collaborative spirit.

The grant has done more than improve physical infrastructure — it has reignited hope for downtown Columbia. As Johnson explained, ​“For many years, our downtown struggled, losing businesses to Nashville and other areas.” Now, with these improvements, Columbia has created a more attractive, safe, and welcoming downtown that can serve as a catalyst for future economic and community development.

About the 2025 GM on Main Street Grant Program

In 2025, the GM on Main Street grant program will fund five $60,000 grants for transportation-focused projects, increasing total funding to $300,000, to select eligible communities. One of these five grants will be designated for a federally recognized tribe located within the Main Street America network.

The program provides funding for innovative transportation that will improve the safety, accessibility, and vibrancy of Main Street districts. We’re looking for ideas that will make your downtown more walkable, safe, accessible, and attractive for both visitors and residents. Proposals should focus on projects that elevate GM and MSA’s to promote pedestrian safety and traffic calming initiatives to improve quality of life in our Main Streets. 

Eligible organizations can submit their project proposals from Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. CT to Sunday, March 2, at 11:59 p.m. CT. Please note that project proposals for the $60,000 GM on Main Street Grant should be feasible to complete and be usable by the public by November 30, 2025. 

Applications will be selected by a review panel and alerted of their award by early April 2025.