ATHENS, Ala. – Finding your way around downtown Athens just got a whole lot easier.
Athens Main Street is excited to unveil four new wayfinding kiosks designed to help residents and visitors explore everything our historic downtown has to offer. Located at key entrances throughout the district, the kiosks feature easy-to-read maps highlighting restaurants, shops, attractions, parking, and public spaces, making it simple to venture beyond the Courthouse Square and discover businesses throughout downtown. The project supports Athens Main Street’s ongoing efforts to create a more walkable, welcoming, and connected downtown.
This project was made possible through a grant from Main Street Alabama, whose continued investment in downtown revitalization helps communities like Athens create places people want to visit, explore, and enjoy.
“Main Street Alabama was pleased to provide a grant for the new kiosks in downtown Athens,” said Main Street Alabama State Coordinator Mary Wirth. “Downtown Athens has become a destination for locals and visitors with plenty of places to shop, dine, and be entertained. The addition of the kiosks with directional maps is another example of the excellence of this Main Street Program.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to Main Street Alabama for believing in projects like this,” said Athens Main Street Executive Director Tere Richardson. “These kiosks are more than maps; they’re an invitation to discover all the unique businesses, restaurants, and attractions that make downtown Athens special.”
Athens Main Street also extends its appreciation to the many partners who helped bring the project to life.
The City of Athens Public Works Department installed the kiosk posts with care and precision.
Brad Mallette, owner of AMBL Studios, and Will Hargrove with Alta Planning + Design helped shape the look and layout of the kiosks, creating a design that is both functional and fits seamlessly into the character of our historic downtown.
Finally, local artist Micah Gregg with Drop Metal brought the design to life by fabricating the decorative metal elements that make each kiosk a unique piece of public art and another example of the thoughtful details that continue to enhance downtown Athens.
“One of the things that makes Athens successful is the incredible partnerships we have,” Richardson said. “This project brought together state support, local government, talented designers, and a gifted local artist to create something that will benefit our community for years to come.”
The new kiosks are another step in Athens Main Street’s commitment to making downtown easy to explore and enjoy, and to creating a place where visitors can confidently discover all that Athens has to offer.
