Historic Bibb Theatre prepares for new life after decades of vacancy in downtown Macon

NewTown Macon invites the public inside ahead of restoration plans for the longtime vacant landmark

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – After sitting vacant for decades, the historic Bibb Theatre in downtown Macon is preparing for a new chapter.

Before construction begins, NewTown Macon is giving the public one final opportunity to step inside the building and see the space that once served as a popular movie theatre.

NewTown Macon purchased the Bibb Theatre in 2018 and has spent years determining the best future for the historic property. The building originally operated as a movie theatre from 1938 to 1978 before closing its doors and remaining empty for nearly 50 years.

“We’re really excited to put this great old building back in service,” said James Fritze, President and CEO of NewTown Macon.

Plans for the redevelopment include restoring the building to its 1963 appearance, bringing back the iconic marquee, and preserving the historic façade.

The first floor will be home to Visit Macon, Rock Candy Tours and The Creek radio station. The upper floors will be converted into residential lofts.

Fritze says the project is designed to create sustainable income to help cover the high costs of restoring the historic structure.

“Unfortunately, these buildings cost a lot to restore,” Fritze said. “We were trying to figure out how to build sustainable income to pay for the restoration. Movie theatres just don’t do that anymore, and downtown already has several venues.”

The project will coincide with the development of a new multigenerational playground planned for downtown Macon. Both projects are expected to be completed sometime in 2027.

NewTown Macon leaders say the redevelopment will help preserve a piece of Macon’s history while contributing to the continued revitalization of the downtown area.

You can view the building on a hard hat tour Friday night during First Friday festivities from 5 to 7 p.m.