Historic Bibb Theatre in Downtown Macon to be Transformed into Lofts

NewTown Macon plans $4 million renovation to breathe new life into the long-vacant theater

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The historic Bibb Theatre in downtown Macon, Georgia, which has sat vacant since the 1970s, is set to undergo a $4 million renovation by NewTown Macon. The economic development agency plans to transform the building into a mixed-use space featuring residential lofts, office space, and a retail store run by Visit Macon, as well as a studio for local radio station The Creek 100.9 FM.

Why it matters

The revitalization of the Bibb Theatre is part of NewTown Macon's broader efforts to breathe new life into downtown Macon, which has seen a decline in business and foot traffic over the years as shopping centers and theaters have moved to the suburbs. By repurposing the historic theater into a mixed-use space, NewTown Macon hopes to attract new residents and businesses to the area, while preserving the building's iconic facade.

The details

NewTown Macon purchased the Bibb Theatre building in 2018 in partnership with the Peyton Anderson Foundation. The agency plans to add a second and third floor to the building, with the ground floor housing a retail store run by Visit Macon and a studio for The Creek 100.9 FM radio station. The iconic facade of the theater will be preserved, as it is one of the most photographed landmarks in downtown Macon.

  • NewTown Macon purchased the Bibb Theatre building in 2018.
  • The agency announced its plans to transform the building into lofts and offices in 2025.
  • The $4 million renovation and construction project is expected to be completed by early 2027.

The players

NewTown Macon

A local economic development agency that purchased the Bibb Theatre building in 2018 with the goal of revitalizing it.

Peyton Anderson Foundation

A philanthropic organization that partnered with NewTown Macon to purchase the Bibb Theatre building.

James Fritze

The president of NewTown Macon, who is overseeing the renovation and transformation of the Bibb Theatre.

Susie Cowan

The general manager of The Creek 100.9 FM radio station, which plans to relocate its studio to the renovated Bibb Theatre building.

Fred G. Weis

The former owner of the Bibb Theatre, who transformed the building into a movie theater in 1938.

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What they’re saying

“This strategy and partnership will begin the process of rehabbing downtown's last abandoned and derelict theatre.”

— James Fritze, President of NewTown Macon (NewTown Macon's Website)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

NewTown Macon expects the renovation and construction project to be completed by early 2027, at which point the Bibb Theatre will reopen as a mixed-use space featuring residential lofts, office space, and retail and community amenities.

The takeaway

The revitalization of the historic Bibb Theatre is a testament to the power of community-driven development and the importance of preserving local landmarks. By transforming the long-vacant theater into a vibrant, mixed-use space, NewTown Macon is not only breathing new life into downtown Macon, but also honoring the building's rich history and cultural significance.