On Wednesday, September 9, Macon-Bibb County celebrated the life and lasting legacy of the legendary Otis Redding with the official dedication of Otis Redding Way.

Family, friends, community members, and local leaders gathered at the Otis Redding Center for the Arts for the special ceremony, held on what would have been the King of Soul’s 85th birthday. The celebration included remarks from Redding’s family and community leaders before the official unveiling of the new street signs.

“Just think about the mark that he left,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “His legacy is all around us, in our music, our culture, and in the generations that continue to be inspired by him. Now, Otis Redding Way gives us another permanent reminder of that impact and the incredible story that connects him to our community.”

Otis Redding Way now includes the portion of Cotton Avenue between First Street and Mulberry Street Lane, as well as the portion of Mulberry Street Lane between Cotton Avenue and Second Street.

“As I stand here and look out, being the grandson and seeing the admiration that everybody had for my grandfather is something always chokes me up,” said Otis Redding’s grandson, Justin Andrews. “Thank you all so much for your love of my family and we continue to do for the youth in Central Georgia.”

The location carries special meaning, placing Otis Redding’s name just steps away from the Otis Redding Center for the Arts and only a few feet from where his office once stood.

“As we continue to cement my dad’s musical and philanthropic legacy, this street dedication only a few feet from where his office was is very symbolic of his impact,” said Karla Redding-Andrews, daughter of Otis Redding and Vice President of the Otis Redding Foundation. “With much appreciation for our supporters in the city of Macon and Bibb County, we’re humbled and excited to celebrate this recognition for the man, the artist and the philanthropist that dad was.”

The Otis Redding Center for the Arts continues that legacy today by providing young people with opportunities to explore music and the arts.

“We’re so blessed to have the rich musical heritage here in Macon and Otis Redding is at the center of that,” said Visit Macon President/CEO Gary Wheat.

The dedication adds another lasting tribute to an artist whose music reached around the world while recognizing his deep connection to the Macon community.

Now, residents and visitors traveling through Downtown Macon will see the name Otis Redding Way, ensuring the King of Soul’s legacy remains part of the community for generations to come.