The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) serves as a mechanism to promote economic growth in the City of Williamston's downtown district. The DDA plans, proposes and implements improvements to individual buildings and public facilities in the downtown district. The DDA also creates, operates and funds marketing initiatives that benefit retail and other business establishments in the downtown district.

Eight authority members are appointed for 4-year terms by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. The Mayor serves as an ex-officio member on a year-to-year basis. Not less than five members shall be persons having an interest in property located in the downtown district; not less than one member shall be a resident of the downtown district.