Driving force behind Whiteville’s recent downtown revitalization projects steps down
Whiteville, NC — Downtown Development Director Madison Ward has submitted her resignation to the City of Whiteville, with her departure effective August 29, City Manager Sean Martin told council members.
Ward, a Tabor City native, has been a central figure in Whiteville’s downtown revitalization efforts. During her tenure, she helped guide several major initiatives now in motion, including planning for the Madison Street Park, a multi‑phase project aimed at expanding public gathering space in the city’s core.
She also led the rebranding of the Pecan Harvest Festival and Christmas Parade, modernizing both events to strengthen community participation and regional appeal. Under her direction, the city launched Music in the Alley, a recurring live‑music series that quickly became a signature downtown attraction. Ward additionally expanded the Downtown Farmers Market, increasing vendor participation and foot traffic as part of a broader push to activate public spaces.
Neither Madison Ward nor the City of Whiteville has released a reason for the sudden departure, and no successor has been identified at this time.
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