| downtown development |
‘ We want that building to make you proud ’
Renovation of historic McClellan ’ s building contributes to downtown revitalization
by Akilah C . Clarke ust across Central Avenue from the Colquitt Tower , a new , yet not-so-new architectural silhouette stretches its gleaming white expanse into the blue skies of Moultrie ’ s downtown square . Although its prominent location at the corners of Central Avenue and Main Street has always been a significant benefit to any business owner fortunate enough to sign the lease ’ s dotted line , the former Mc- Clellan ’ s building had seen better days .
In keeping with Moultrie ’ s newly conferred 2022 Visionary Cities Award , new owners Chad and Whitney Smith and Macie Hegwood are doing their part to ensure the renovation of the 1930s-era property pays homage to its historic roots , while providing long-term value to the downtown Moultrie community .
A bright future lies ahead for the 16,000 square-foot building — commonly known as the old Citi Trends building — due to the of the trio of small businessowners ’ unrelenting efforts and passion for local enterprise in the downtown area . Sisters Whitney and Macie were looking for more permanent locations for their respective businesses when the opportunity to purchase the property arose .
Chad and Whitney Smith pose with Anne Draffin Sartain and Mike Draffin , children of the man who constructed the Draffin & Tucker building . The Smiths and Macie Hegwood renovated the building , and Sartain and Draffin came to the ribbon cutting afterward . Photo submitted
22 MoultrieScene JANUARY 2023