May 2, 2025
By:
The Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the completion of phase one of the Alexandria Downtown Project.
Three years ago, the Chamber applied to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for Alexandria to be accepted into the Tennessee Downtowns Program. Following the town’s acceptance into the program, a Downtown Alexandria Committee was formed, consisting of Chamber Director Suzanne Williams, Ria Baker, Judy Sandlin, Pat Parkerson, and Phillip Holmes.
“The news of Alexandria’s acceptance into the program was incredibly exciting,” said Williams. “It marked the beginning of a journey to revitalize the downtown and attract new investment.”
Participation in the program required the steering committee to complete a year of specialized training before qualifying for a $15,000 grant to kickstart improvement efforts. The project’s primary goals were to launch renovations and generate renewed interest in Alexandria’s downtown to attract investors and businesses.
Completed Phase One Projects Include:
At Alexandria Medical Center, the entire building was power washed and all four exterior walls were painted.
At Junk n Jewels, a new front door and a new screen door were installed, and exterior painting and caulking were completed.
At the Tinsley Building, a new metal awning was installed.
At the Alexandria Masonic Lodge, the front brickwork was power washed; all exterior walls and rear doors were painted; the metal-framed windows were repaired, primed, and painted; broken and missing window glass was replaced; a new metal platform for the rear steps and landing was repaired and installed; the platform, steps, and landing were painted; two front plate glass windows were replaced; and the entry glass door was removed and replaced.
“With phase one complete, we’re preparing to apply for a $300,000 Downtown Improvement Grant this June,” Williams shared. “This funding will allow us to make major improvements to the remaining building exteriors.”
Committee member Ria Baker added, “These improvements are already making a visible difference, and we’re excited to see even more progress as we continue to move forward.”
Looking ahead, Williams announced that the committee moving forward into phase two will consist of Judy Sandlin, Pat Parkerson, Phillip Holmes, Dennis Slager, Suzanne Williams, Emily Bell, and Jamie Bates.
Williams also noted the growing interest from new investors in downtown Alexandria. “We’re excited about the momentum that’s building. Our state consultant, Bridgett Jones, has been instrumental in guiding us to make informed, impactful decisions.”
“We’re grateful to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development for this opportunity to breathe new life into Alexandria’s downtown,” Williams added. “These improvements not only boost our local economy but also enhance our appeal as a tourism destination.”
For more information about the Alexandria Downtown Project, contact the Smithville-DeKalb County Chamber of Commerce at 615-597-4163.