Downtown Jackson continues to thrive and the 2024 JDDC Annual Report highlights another year of progress, from economic growth and public art investments to small business support and community-driven events.

Key Highlights from 2024:

Economic Growth & Investments

Jackson’s Arts & Culture industry generated $7.2 million, supporting 423 jobs and contributing $1.2 million in government revenue.
A $150,000 public art investment from Our Jackson Home and the City of Jackson will enhance the Downtown Arts District.
JDDC secured $320,000 in grant funding for projects like facade improvements, public spaces, and neighborhood enhancements.

Small Business & Community Support

The LOCAL Incubator has supported 12 businesses since 2018, with 7 growing into larger spaces downtown.

Monthly Downtown Business Roundtables connected and supported 20+ businesses on average.
Expansion of online business resources and directories has improved visibility for local entrepreneurs.

Events That Bring the Community Together

Over 4,900 people participated in JDDC-led initiatives like:

Food Truck Friday – Bringing delicious eats and community vibes.
Walkability Campaign – Advocating for a more pedestrian-friendly downtown.
Lavender Trail – A unique springtime treat.
Holiday Passport Program & Downtown in December – Encouraging shopping local during the holiday season.
Yoga in the Park – Promoting wellness in the heart of the city.

Leadership:

Director:
Beth Ann Simpson

Board of Directors

Ryan Porter, Paul Taylor, Ben Harris, Ben Ferguson, Debbie Dunaway, Lisa Garner, Trista Havner, Richard Donnell, Roberta Milam, Tina Prescott, Terica Smith, Claire Pierson, Don McCorry, Logan McCoy

Downtown Arts District:

373,000+ people come Downtown to be entertained. In 2022, Jackson’s Arts & Culture Industry generated $7.2 million in economic activity, supporting 423 jobs and generating $1.2 million in local, state, and federal government revenue.* This activity largely takes place in the Downtown Arts District. Our Jackson Home and City of Jackson will invest $150,000 in public art in Downtown FY25 to further develop the Arts District as a destination.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The City of Jackson has adopted new master plans and design guidelines, shaping the next steps for downtown’s development.
A second round of facade improvement grants will revitalize up to 16 buildings, improve signage, and enhance beautification efforts.
JDDC will continue advocating for resources, strengthening partnerships, and creating a more vibrant and inclusive downtown experience.

Thank you from the Director:

“In 2024, the City adopted updated master plans and design guidelines for subareas including Downtown. We are excited to allow these plans to guide future work and assist in implementing next steps with local partners in 2025. We were awarded a second round of facade improvement grants to impact up to sixteen buildings, corridor wayfinding signage, and beautification of the Downtown district to begin in 2025. We continued programs like Food Truck Friday, the Walkability Campaign, Lavender Trail, Yoga in the Park, and Holiday Passport to support community needs and stimulate economic activity for our small businesses. We advocated for resources for the Downtown community, further establishing ourselves as a connecting piece for recruiting new growth and opportunities. We further expanded our online resources and directory to equitably market and promote our diverse ecosystem. We hope to continue to demonstrate the value added to Downtown Jackson through an economic and community development organization like JDDC. We could not do this work without the collaboration and support of our partners across the community: theCO, especially the Communications Team, Our Jackson Home, Visit Jackson, Jackson Arts Council, LIFT Wellness Center, Jackson Energy Authority, the City of Jackson (Planning, Engineering, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, JPD, and Mayor’s Office Staff), the Greater Jackson Chamber, Downtown non-profit agencies, and our dedicated volunteer Board of Directors and Design Committee. Thank you!”

2024 JDDC Annual Report Recap