VALDOSTA – Valdosta is experiencing a significant wave of economic momentum as new developments reshape its historic downtown district ahead of Small Business Saturday on November 29, 2025. The City of Valdosta and Valdosta Main Street have unveiled a transformative mixed-use project alongside the launch of several new businesses, signaling strong investor confidence in the area’s future.
At the heart of the revitalization is a multi-million dollar development led by Daniel Bayman, which will introduce over 50 residential units and ground-floor retail space. This project aims to boost housing density in the city center and support local commerce by increasing foot traffic and consumer demand.
“This level of investment reflects years of strategic planning,” said Patrick Pearson, Director of Valdosta Main Street. “The combination of long-term residential growth and immediate business activity creates a dynamic environment just in time for Small Business Saturday. It shows that entrepreneurs see real potential here.”
Two new establishments have already opened, adding vibrancy to the downtown scene. Oak and Olive, a sophisticated bourbon and martini bar, offers premium spirits and elevated dining, catering to both locals and visitors. Joining it is Three Crazy Bakers of Moultrie, expanding its popular bakery into Historic Downtown Valdosta with fresh-baked goods and a community-focused approach.
Margaret Brown, owner of Three Crazy Bakers, emphasized the appeal of Valdosta’s revitalization energy. “Our loyal customers in Moultrie inspired us to grow, and Valdosta felt like the natural next step,” she said. “The historic charm and active community made this decision easy.”
Additional growth is on the horizon, with three more restaurants expected to open in 2026, including one set to occupy the former Steel Magnolias site. Meanwhile, Jamie Phelps and partners at Downtown Equipment Rentals LLC are renovating the historic 119 West Central Avenue building to include short-term rental units and flexible ground-floor space for future retail or office use.
Mayor Scott Matheson praised the developments as a win for the entire community. “These projects bring much-needed housing, strengthen our tax base, and confirm Valdosta as a destination for living, shopping, and dining,” he said. “This progress sets a strong foundation for continued growth beyond 2026.”
With several historic buildings still available for lease or purchase, Valdosta Main Street is actively supporting entrepreneurs interested in joining the revitalization. The organization offers guidance, resource connections, and site selection assistance to help new businesses thrive in the growing downtown ecosystem.
Residents are encouraged to support local enterprises, especially during the holiday season, by shopping and dining locally. Such engagement helps sustain economic momentum and ensures long-term vitality for the city center.
— news from Valdosta Today
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Valdosta downtown announces major economic developments
VALDOSTA – Valdosta announces major economic developments highlighting downtown growth ahead of Small Business Saturday. n nRelease: n nThe City of Valdosta and Valdosta Main Street announced a series of major economic developments that signal a new era of growth and momentum for the historic downtown district, culminating in the unveiling of a significant mixed-use project. n nThe announcement, made just days before Small Business Saturday on November 29, 2025, includes a new multi-million dollar development featuring ground-floor retail and more than 50 apartment units, alongside the immediate opening of two highly anticipated new businesses. n nThe centerpiece of the revitalization effort is a new mixed-use building being developed by Daniel Bayman. The project will dramatically increase downtown residential density and retail opportunities, addressing a critical need for housing in the city center. n n“This is the kind of transformative investment we’ve been working toward,” said Patrick Pearson, Valdosta Main Street Director. “The scale of the mixed-use project, coupled with the immediate vibrancy brought by businesses like Oak and Olive and Three Crazy Bakers, provides the perfect energy boost right before Small Business Saturday. It shows investors believe in our downtown vision.” n nNew Businesses Bring Immediate Vibrancy n nAdding to the momentum, developer Daniel Bayman has also recently successfully launched Oak and Olive, an elevated bourbon and martini bar in Downtown Valdosta. The establishment offers refined cocktails, premium bourbons, and a menu of great food, providing a new high-end dining and nightlife option for residents and visitors. n nThe culinary scene will be further boosted by Three Crazy Bakers of Moultrie, which has chosen Historic Downtown Valdosta for its second location. In addition, Valdosta Main Street reports that three additional restaurants (to be named later) are expected to open in 2026, including a project in the former Steel Magnolias location. n n“Valdosta’s downtown has incredible potential, and I want to be a leader in realizing that vision,” said Daniel Bayman, Developer. “Oak and Olive is already providing a high-end experience, and the mixed-use development will bring critical residential density needed to support every retailer on Main Street. We are committed to creating a true live, work, and play environment here.” n nFurther accelerating the district’s evolution, Jamie Phelps and his partners in Downtown Equipment Rentals LLC are moving forward with the renovation of the historic property at 119 West Central Avenue. This project will transform the building to include short-term rental units, offering convenient accommodations for downtown visitors, alongside a versatile ground-floor storefront suitable for future retail or office space. n nCity Leadership Emphasizes Community Impact and Opportunity n nLocal officials celebrated the developments as a confirmation of Valdosta’s economic trajectory and a benefit to the entire community. n n“The City Council and I are thrilled to welcome this significant development,” said Mayor Scott Matheson. “This commitment, including over 50 new residential units, addresses a crucial need and confirms that Valdosta is a premier destination for living, dining, and shopping. This is a massive win for our tax base and our residents, setting us up for success in 2026 and beyond.” n nFor Margaret Brown, owner of Three Crazy Bakers, the decision to expand was based on the community’s enthusiastic support for local commerce. n n“We’ve had such a loyal following in Moultrie, and choosing Downtown Valdosta for our second shop was an easy decision,” said Margaret Brown. “The historic atmosphere and the energy around the revitalization are infectious. We can’t wait to share our fresh-baked goods and connect with the Valdosta community.” n nCommunity Encouraged to Shop Local n nWith these exciting new developments underway, Valdosta Main Street strongly encourages all residents to recognize the critical role our small businesses play in the fabric of our community. As the holiday season begins, we urge shoppers to kick off their Christmas spending by celebrating Small Business Saturday this weekend. By choosing to shop and dine at our local, historic downtown businesses, the community directly supports our neighbors, strengthens the local economy, and ensures our downtown continues to thrive. n nFor entrepreneurs looking to join this exciting growth, several historic buildings remain available for lease and purchase in the downtown area. Whether you are looking for a first location or a second location for any type of business, the Valdosta Main Street team is eager to help navigate the process, connect you with resources, and find the perfect spot for your new endeavor.