Opelika Main Street welcomes new Executive Director

Opelika Main Street has announced Ken Ward as the new executive director. Ward brings a young perspective to the Main Street program. He is a recent graduate of Auburn University with undergraduate degrees in Journalism and Political Science and a Master of Public Administration.

“I am looking forward to helping assist in the growth and vibrancy of historic downtown Opelika,” said Ward. “There are so many dedicated business owners and operators in the downtown area and I look forward to helping be their advocate so that they can be successful and see their business thrive.”

Ward said you can expect to see downtown Opelika continue to grow as a destination for shopping, entertainment and dining. Locals can still look forward to the signature downtown events like On the Tracks, but can also anticipate new events such as Opelika Main Street on Tap.

“I am excited about our upcoming craft beer festival in late July,” said Ward. “This is a new destination event that will not only be fun for locals, but will also drive many new faces into downtown Opelika for the first time.”

The festival will feature over 25 different breweries from across the nation for attendees to enjoy.

Ward said he aims to find more innovative and out-of-the-box ways of attracting groups to downtown Opelika, and with the growing trend of young professionals visiting downtown, Ward’s fresh perspective will be a welcomed new approach.  

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