Enterprise, Ala. (Aug. 21, 2026) — Opelika Main Street is excited to announce it was recognized for its impactful work at the thirteenth annual Awards of Excellence Banquet. The event was sponsored by Energy Southeast and the Alabama Black Belt National Heritage Area. The Awards of Excellence committee selected Opelika Main Street for the District Housing award for the Geneva Street Duplexes that were developed by Hartbrook Development.
The construction of two duplexes on Geneva Street resulted in four new residential units in the Opelika Main Street district. The project focused on activating underutilized vacant lots by introducing well-designed, infill housing that complements existing housing types, and increasing the availability of housing options within walking distance of Opelika’s downtown core. This project raised the district’s housing supply to 117 units and shows the value of infill housing for meeting the demand for quality homes near downtown.
“Last night was a wonderful reminder of why this work matters,” said Wirth. “It is an honor for me to present the awards, and seeing the pride each community has in its Main Street district was truly inspiring. Our local Main Street programs are doing meaningful work across Alabama, and the Main Street Four-Point Approach continues to help communities build on what makes them special while preserving the places that tell their story.”
Local programs also selected a Main Street Hero that honored an individual, business, or organization that made an outstanding contribution to their program. These Heroes were recognized at the Toast to Heroes Reception sponsored by Regions Bank before the banquet. Buddy Ingram was chosen for the work performed and positive impact made on behalf of Opelika Main Street and its community.
Since opening Santé in late 2024, Buddy has evolved from new downtown business manager into a cornerstone of the Opelika Main Street Board. He first lent his expertise to “On the Tracks”, where his curation of wine lists and logistical assistance directly increased ticket sales and guest experience. Now, he is a vital member of the Board of Directors and an advocate for downtown merchants. His feedback on downtown operations and unwavering commitment to Opelika Main Street make him a true leader in the district’s success.
“It is incredibly meaningful to see Opelika recognized on the state level, but what makes these honors especially special is knowing they represent the work of so many people,” said Kelsey Sullivan, Executive Director of Opelika Main Street. “Downtown revitalization is never the work of one person or one organization. It takes businesses willing to invest, volunteers willing to serve, partners willing to believe in a vision, and a community that cares deeply about its downtown.”
Main Street Alabama is a non-profit organization which stresses public-private partnerships, broad community engagement, and strategies that create jobs, spark new investment, attract visitors, and spur growth in core commercial districts. Main Street builds on the authentic history, culture, and attributes of specific places to bring sustainable change.
