Downtown Kingsland’s Next Chapter?
Episode 107 Recap: Downtown Kingsland’s Next Chapter
In this episode of the Get ’N Your Business Podcast, host Alison Shores sits down with Jolene Andersen, Chair of the Kingsland Downtown Development Authority, to discuss the projects, partnerships and community events shaping the future of Downtown Kingsland.
The conversation begins with the recent expansion of the Downtown Development Authority’s boundaries. This change allows more nearby businesses to access valuable resources, including façade grants, state programs and low-interest development loans. In just the past three months, six façade grants have been awarded, with two additional projects nearing completion. These grants have helped business owners repair storefronts, replace damaged awnings and improve their properties.
One of the episode’s biggest announcements is the planned revitalization of Downtown Kingsland’s historic “white building,” which once served as the area’s original hospital. The property will become The Camden Exchange, featuring a unique restaurant, an artisan gift shop and the first residential-over-commercial space in Downtown Kingsland. The project is expected to open in 2027 and is being supported through development loans that may offer interest rates as low as 2%.
Listeners also get a preview of several exciting community events:
The Camden County High School Homecoming Parade and the return of the traditional homecoming bonfire on September 24.
An expanded Catfish Festival in November featuring live music, a street party, Michael Jackson tribute entertainment, contests and catfish prepared by the Kingsland Lions Club.
The Veterans Day Parade and improvements to Veterans Park, including a reflection pool and new statue.
A new daytime Christmas celebration on December 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a Christmas parade, Santa, snow, family activities and a holiday market.
The episode also highlights new investment in downtown storefronts. Several spaces have already been leased, including the first permanent storefront for Three Coastal Babies, while additional restaurant and personal-service businesses are expected to be announced soon.
Looking beyond downtown, plans are also moving forward for The Lawn, Kingsland’s developing regional event grounds. Future phases may include an arena capable of hosting concerts, rodeos, car shows, 4-H programs, livestock shows and other large community events.
Ultimately, this episode demonstrates what can happen when business owners, volunteers, the Downtown Development Authority, city staff and elected leaders work toward the same goal. What began with small improvements eight years ago is becoming a larger vision designed to make Downtown Kingsland a destination people will enjoy—and continue returning to.
Learn More
Business owners, potential investors, vendors and community members can contact Downtown Kingsland at info@downtownkingsland.com for information about available properties, grants, events and development opportunities.
