Downtown Macon’s ‘Spirit of Macon Park’ Transforms Vacant Lot into Vibrant Community Space

Macon, GA – A once “dreary and scary” corner of downtown Macon has been transformed into a welcoming green space with the opening of Spirit of Macon Park at Fifth Street and Poplar Street, next to the Macon Transit Authority.

The Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority (MBCTA) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the project. MBCTA CEO Craig Ross said, “I knew this was going to be good, but it’s better than any of my expectations.”

The park is the culmination of a multi-year vision that began in 2021 when MBCTA sought to revitalize the area with public art. The project included the creation of the Spirit of Macon I and Spirit of Macon II murals by Georgia College & State University professor Abraham Abebe, funded through Community Foundation of Central Georgia grants with support from MBCTA.

After the murals were completed, trees and brush that threatened the artwork were removed, leaving an unattractive vacant lot. MBCTA envisioned converting the space into a pocket park for relaxation and wellness. That vision came to life in 2025 when Spirit of Macon Park was selected as one of 383 nationwide projects to receive an AARP Community Challenge Grant.

“This project will transform a vacant lot adjacent to public transit,” said Wallace White, Associate State Director for AARP. “It enhances accessibility for older adults and provides wellness programs for the community.”

Multiple Macon-Bibb departments and local partners contributed to the park’s development. Parks & Beautification installed landscaping, benches, and a pet waste station; Public Works repaired sidewalks; and traffic engineers improved the intersection with new turn lanes and a bike lane. Local businesses donated equipment, and law enforcement and code enforcement will monitor the area.

The Jackson Springs Garden Club planted 250 daffodils to honor children lost in the Holocaust and those currently facing humanitarian crises. The club has adopted the park and will continue quarterly beautification efforts.

Mayor Lester Miller praised the project, saying, “This is what happens when our community and partner agencies come together. I am so proud of and thankful for the MBCTA for seeing a need and wanting to make a difference.”

MBCTA officials said they are proud to provide a vibrant new community space for residents, commuters, and visitors in the heart of downtown Macon.