East Bank Project Draws Community Input at Mill Hill Arts Center Meeting

More than 30 residents gathered at the Mill Hill Community Arts Center on Thursday, November 21, to engage in two sessions about the proposed East Bank Project. The meetings offered an opportunity for community members to learn about the redevelopment plans, ask questions, and share their vision for the neighborhood.

Wanda Collins Smith, a 20-year East Macon resident, expressed optimism: “I think this is a great opportunity. We really want to make sure this is for everyone, including the minorities. I think it would be great to see some lofts about the shops. It would be great to have affordable housing, too.”

Attendees interacted with vision boards and placed stickers on ideas they hoped to see realized, such as affordable housing, retail spaces, and recreational areas.

Adam Parker, involved in the project’s planning, highlighted the importance of community participation: “When we embark on exploring opportunities like this, we think it’s really important to bring together not just the public parties but also the folks that live and work in the neighborhood. It was a very good turnout. We had good feedback and a great discussion.”

The East Bank Project focuses on redeveloping the former Bibb Mill site on Coliseum Drive, an area seen as a potential hub for activity and a gateway connecting I-16, East Macon, and Downtown. Officials estimate that the redevelopment could attract $350 million in private investment due to its strategic location near the interstate, Downtown, the Convention Center, and the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park.

Mayor Lester Miller emphasized the project’s dual purpose: “When people get off the interstate to come to shows at the Centreplex or go to a conference at the Marriott or head Downtown, we want to make sure they’re greeted with something that makes them want to stay longer, to see all that we have to offer.”

Director of Planning & Public Spaces Alex Morrison added, “We are being very intentional to make sure this development benefits locals above all while being the front porch of Macon-Bibb to the new visitors who will be coming for the national park. That we are at a stage where we can consider projects of this scope is a testament to years of diligent and exceptional work in developing Downtown, Mill Hill, and the trail system.”

The project remains in the planning stages, with community input playing a critical role in shaping its future direction.