The Downtown Statesville Development Corporation (DSDC) and the City of Statesville are pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew L. Pierce as the new Downtown Business & Development Manager. This newly formalized position reflects a strengthened partnership between the City and DSDC, approved by Statesville City Council in March 2025, establishing the role as a full-time City employee dedicated to advancing downtown revitalization and economic development.
Pierce brings a wealth of experience in planning, economic development, and downtown engagement. He has served as Assistant to the City Manager since 2021, where he led key downtown initiatives, including serving as the City’s project manager for the $40 million public- private partnership for the police department expansion, new apartments, and public amenities. He also facilitated the City’s transition to a quasi-governmental partnership with DSDC.
“Matthew’s combination of strategic vision and local experience makes him the ideal leader for this role,” said City Manager Ron Smith. “He understands our community and is committed to making downtown Statesville a thriving, welcoming destination.”
“Hiring Matthew Pierce as the Downtown & Business Development Manager is one of the most impactful and forward-looking decisions DSDC has made over the last decade,” said Trey Robertson, incoming DSDC Board Chair. “Matthew has a wealth of experience in economic development, well-rooted relationships with downtown property owners and businesses, a productive working history with the City Council and staff, and a firm foundation of knowledge about the NC Main Street program. The next decade will be a time of great flourishing and vibrancy in downtown Statesville, and Matthew is the right choice to encourage and enable the next chapter in our city’s story.”
Prior to joining the City of Statesville, Pierce was Director of Business Retention & Expansion at the Iredell County Economic Development Corporation and served as Interim Main Street Director for the City of Kings Mountain. He holds a Doctorate from Emory University, a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of New Orleans, and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners.
In his new role, Pierce will oversee the coordination of the DSDC Board and committees, manage implementation of the Main Street Program, and work closely with downtown stakeholders to promote economic vitality and historic preservation. The position also includes supervision of downtown beautification, marketing efforts, and small business support.
“I love this downtown and believe deeply in the power of a vibrant, walkable district to shape the heart of our community,” said Pierce. “I’m excited to build on the strong foundation already in place and work collaboratively to make downtown Statesville even better.”
