Audio System Delays and Upcoming Events for Downtown Bainbridge

DDA discusses audio system delays, plans for Sunset Cinema series, and upcoming roadwork

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge reported that the delivery of an audio system for Willis Park has been further delayed, with the equipment still 'in production' and at least six weeks away from being delivered. The authority is also planning a Sunset Cinema series with six screenings throughout the year, and the city will be restriping parking spaces and restricting on-street parking on certain streets around the park.

Why it matters

The audio system delay impacts the authority's ability to host events and activities in the park, while the upcoming Sunset Cinema series and roadwork will affect traffic and parking in the downtown area, potentially impacting local businesses and residents.

The details

The Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge ordered the audio system for Willis Park back in October 2025, before the Downtown Bainbridge Holiday Open House in November. However, the equipment is still 'in production' and will not be delivered for at least another six weeks. The authority had effectively paid for the system upfront with a $21,000 purchase order, and board members suggested following up with the company to either get the system installed or receive a refund. In addition to the audio system delay, the authority is planning a Sunset Cinema series with six screenings throughout the year, starting on March 13, the Friday before River Town Days. The city will also be restriping parking spaces on Broad, Broughton, West, and Water streets around Willis Park on Monday, and the Georgia Department of Transportation will be closing Whigham Dairy Road to non-local traffic, which will impact downtown traffic.

  • The audio system was ordered on October 1, 2025.
  • The first Sunset Cinema screening is scheduled for March 13, 2026.
  • The parking space restriping and Whigham Dairy Road closure will occur on Monday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge

The local government agency responsible for overseeing and promoting economic development in Bainbridge's downtown district.

Sterling Widner

The vice-chairman of the Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge.

Crystal Hines

The interim executive director of the Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge.

Tom Conger

A board member of the Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge.

Sarah Howell

The marketing and special events coordinator for the Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge.

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What they’re saying

“In production sounds to me like the hardware's not even been sent to them yet.”

— Sterling Widner, Vice-Chairman (thepostsearchlight.com)

“We've had two applicants. We're willing to just be patient for the right person.”

— Crystal Hines, Interim Executive Director (thepostsearchlight.com)

What’s next

The Downtown Development Authority will follow up with the audio system vendor to either get the system installed or receive a refund. The authority will also continue its search for a permanent executive director.

The takeaway

The delays and challenges faced by the Downtown Development Authority of Bainbridge highlight the importance of reliable infrastructure and timely project execution in supporting a vibrant downtown district. The authority's efforts to plan events and improve the area demonstrate its commitment to the community, despite the setbacks.