‘Josh Rogers Way’ approved in downtown Macon to honor late NewTown Macon president

The block of Third Street between Poplar and Cherry will carry the name starting in 2026.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb County commissioners voted Tuesday to name a downtown block “Josh Rogers Way” in honor of longtime NewTown Macon CEO Josh Rogers.

According to a news release from NewTown Macon, Mayor Lester Miller sponsored the ordinance to designate the block of Third Street between Poplar Street and Cherry Street. Commissioners unanimously approved it.

Rogers, who died unexpectedly on November 24, 2024, oversaw major redevelopment projects during his decade leading NewTown Macon, helping guide the organization to the 2024 Great American Main Street Award. He was later honored with the 2025 Mary Means Leadership Award from Main Street America.

NewTown Macon said the new street designation serves as a “permanent reminder of his unwavering commitment to building a fairer and more vibrant Macon.”

The release mentioned that under his leadership, NewTown leveraged nearly $616 million to invest in people and places across the community.

“It is fitting that we dedicate this portion of downtown Macon in Josh’s honor,” said Alex Morrison, Director of Planning and Public Spaces for Macon-Bibb County and Executive Director of the Macon-Bibb Urban Development Authority. “Josh inspired us to dream big for people, and this area will soon transform into a landmark gathering space imagined by Maconites through the Macon Action Plan.”

Mayor Miller said Rogers strengthened the community through vision and collaboration.

“We are stronger, kinder, and more united because of Josh,” Miller said.

NewTown Macon said it will host a formal dedication and announce future development plans for Josh Rogers Way in early 2026.