NACOGDOCHES— The City of Nacogdoches Main Street program is excited to announce that the Hazle-White Building, located at 401 E. Main Street in historic Downtown Nacogdoches, has won the 2026 Texas Downtown President's Award for Best Rehabilitation/Restoration/Renovation in the Under 50,000 population category.
The Texas Downtown President's Awards recognize outstanding projects, places, and people contributing to the vitality of downtown communities across Texas. The Hazle-White Building was selected as a winner for its exceptional rehabilitation and commitment to historic preservation.
Originally constructed in 1901, the Hazle-White Building has been a part of Downtown Nacogdoches for more than a century. The historic property underwent an extensive rehabilitation led by local businessman Dennis White and his family, representing a significant investment in the downtown district.
The rehabilitation focused on preserving the building's historic character while adapting the space for modern use. One of the project's most notable features was the recreation of the original balcony, restoring a distinctive architectural element to Downtown Nacogdoches. The completed project is a wonderful example of how historic preservation and private investment can contribute to downtown revitalization.
"We couldn't be more excited to see the Hazle-White Building receive this statewide recognition!" said Main Street Manager Tori Proctor. "This project is a wonderful example of the dedication and investment it takes to preserve our historic downtown. We're incredibly grateful to the White family for their commitment to bringing new life to this beautiful building, and it's exciting to see their hard work recognized among the best projects in Texas!"
This year, 150 entries were submitted from communities across Texas for the 2026 Texas Downtown President's Awards. Design and Achievement entries were evaluated by separate judging panels based on community population.
Design entries for communities with populations under 50,000 were judged by Alex Philips, Executive Director, Burleson EDC; Steven Lyons, Authentic Texas; Troy Myatt, Design Director, Wrangler Design, Texas Forts Trail Region; and Conor Herterich, Northeast Texas Program Officer and Endangered Properties Manager, Preservation Texas.
Winners were announced Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at the President's Awards Gala in Amarillo, held in conjunction with the Texas Downtown Annual Conference.
Established in 1985, Texas Downtown (TXD) is an independent, statewide nonprofit that empowers downtown leaders through resources, advocacy, education, and connections. TXD serves communities of all sizes and the organizations, businesses, and individuals working to create vibrant downtowns that celebrate local character and strengthen a sense of place.
For more information about the Texas Downtown President's Awards, visit www.texasdowntown.org . For information about the Nacogdoches Main Street program, contact the Main Street Office at 936-559-2652 or email mainstreet@nactx.us.