Gwinnett Chamber's Cities Guide • 2023 Edition

chamber’s

CITIES GUIDE 2023

Since Gwinnett County’s creation in 1818, we have grown from an agrarian, frontier community to an economic powerhouse with industry, commercial centers, entertainment centers, colleges, neighborhoods, and parks.

We were the 50th county formed in Georgia, are the 50th in landmass, and are now well on our way to becoming Georgia’s most populous county.

Our dynamic and exciting county combines the best of big-city living with the comforts of the suburbs.

Gwinnett is exemplified by a can-do attitude and a tradition of working together to make our community the best place to live, work, play, and raise a family, and that distinct Gwinnett spirit is reflected by nearly 1 million residents who call our community home.

WE ARE INDEED

GwinnettCounty.com | 770.822.8000 Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn! @GwinnettGov

CONTENTS

5

President’s Message

G WI NNE T T CH A M B E R O F C O M M ERC E

7

About the Chamber

chair: Dean Collins

8

Economic & Community Development

11

Gwinnett County

17

City of Auburn

21

editor: Lisa Sherman PU B L I CAT I O N M A NAG E M E NT Accent Creative Group 365 S Perry Street Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (678) 407-8820 www.AccentCreativeGroup.com president: Pam Ledbetter managing editor: Catherine James creative director: Sydney Smith editorial inquiries: pam@accentcreativegroup.com

25

Town of Braselton

29

City of Buford

33

City of Dacula

37

City of Duluth

A DV E RT I S I NG sales director: Audrey Rawls 678-407-8820 audrey@accentcreativegroup.com

postmaster: Send change of address to: Cities Guide

41

City of Grayson

6500 Sugarloaf Parkway

47

City of Lawrenceville

chamber offices:

53

City of Lilburn

Duluth, GA 30097

6500 Sugarloaf Parkway Duluth, GA 30097 Cities Guide ©2023 is published annually by the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

57

City of Loganville

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or

61

City of Norcross

The Gwinnett Chamber and its representatives,

65

All events listed throughout this publication are subject to change.

Please contact each city directly for updated information.

City of Berkeley Lake

president/ceo: Nick Masino

City of Peachtree Corners

69

City of Snellville

73

City of Sugar Hill

77

City of Suwanee

in part without permission is prohibited.

employees, and agents are held harmless from any claim, demand, liability, or action on account of or in any way arising out of the client’s advertising, products, and services, or its participation in the Cities Guide.

This Guide represents an overview of Gwinnett’s many offerings and serves as a starting point and resource for information on the cities and county. While every attempt was made to ensure accuracy, any updated information or changes should be directed to the Gwinnett Chamber via lsherman@gwinnettchamber.org

@GwinnettChamber CITIES GUIDE 3

Look

Leaf for the

At Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS), our team cares for more than 1 million people across the region through four hospital campuses and a variety of other locations.

Locations convenient to Gwinnett include: Hospitals - Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton Medical Office Buildings - dozens of physician offices representing multiple specialties come together in one building for your convenience: Medical Plaza 1 and Medical Plaza B in Braselton Northeast Georgia Physicians Group - more than 350 providers represent 30 specialties at more than 65 locations including Bethlehem, Braselton, Buford, Chestnut Mountain, Cumming, Dacula, Flowery Branch, Hamilton Mill, Oakwood and West Jackson Visit ngpg.org to find a provider near you Georgia Heart Institute - Cardiovascular specialists at 14 locations including Braselton, Buford, Cumming and Hamilton Mill Visit georgiaheartinstitute.org/physicians to find a provider near you Rehabilitation Centers - six locations for physical, speech and occupational therapy including Braselton and Buford 1400 River Place Braselton, GA 30517 770-848-8000 Visit nghs.com/braselton and nghs.com/buford to learn more.

Long Term Care Centers - New Horizons Limestone and New Horizons Lanier Park, both in Gainesville Imaging Centers - Braselton and Buford Urgent Care - seven locations for treatment of minor injuries and illnesses including Braselton, Buford and Dacula Cancer Services - access NGMC’s nationally recognized cancer services in four locations including NGMC Braselton Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Center - Gainesville’s dedicated treatment center for adolescents and adults: Laurelwood

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide //president’s message

Welcome to the official guide to the cities of Gwinnett!

The Gwinnett Chamber is proud to champion business for the county and we appreciate your interest in the bustling city centers that characterize Gwinnett as a vibrantly connected community.

We work hard to be the leading advocate and innovative resource for businesses to network and thrive. Gwinnett County and its cities are an unstoppable force, and the Gwinnett Chamber is fortunate to serve alongside such inclusive and pioneering leaders.

The Cities Guide offers resourceful information for learning about the many opportunities that each of our uniquely centralized communities can offer you, your family and your business. It showcases Gwinnett’s cities, highlighting economic activity, entertainment and the very distinct personalities that celebrate Gwinnett’s richly diverse culture. In addition to boasting pro-business mindsets, responsive governments and energetic and activity-abundant town centers, Gwinnett’s cities know how to host events the whole family will enjoy.

I am confident that as you flip through this guide you will learn many new and interesting facts about our cities, while also discovering how each one plays a role in our mission to champion business in Gwinnett.

Nick Masino President & CEO Gwinnett Chamber and Partnership Gwinnett

CITIES GUIDE 5

Talbert Se Talbert Insurance Services SPECIALIZING IN BUSINESS AND PERSONAL INSURANCE NEEDS

Life • Home • Car • Business Independent insurance agency providing both personal and commercial insurance Over 30 years experience servicing Gwinnett, Atlanta, and much of the Southeast

DON’T LET INSURANCE COSTS BURN A HOLE IN YOUR WALLET!

3473 Satellite Blvd. Suite 114 Duluth, GA 30096 770-497-9400 fax: 770-813-8535

Offering the right coverage at the best price Award-winning service (Voted Best of Gwinnett 2010-2023, Pinnacle Business Awards Nominee 2014, Pinnacle Award Finalist 2018, IMPACT Regional Business Awards Finalist and Best in Duluth 2015-2022)

www.talbertservices.com

Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter!

Be sure to check out our Insurance Blog at: www.talbertservices.com

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide //about the chamber

CHAMPION BUSINESS WITH THE GWINNETT CHAMBER The Gwinnett Chamber is proud to champion business in this growing region. We work hard to be the leading advocate and innovative resource for businesses to connect and thrive.

Having earned our Five-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 2022, the Gwinnett Chamber now ranks among the top 1% of all chambers nationwide for best business practices and positive impact on the community. And it’s no wonder why. To champion business, a values system must prevail, one rooted in innovation, inclusion and advocacy.

We Innovate Our members, investors, partners and staff continually advance the new and better. Through active listening, collaboration and exploration, we can take reasonable risks and try new things, always evaluating and adjusting to ensure that we meet our business community’s needs. With more than 300+ unique and intentional programs a year, customized member development plans, cost-saving benefits and international business opportunities, our goal is always to maximize our members’ return on investment.

We Include With an 84.4% diversity index, Gwinnett’s population thrives as an inclusive and vibrant community of people.

Our organization values an environment of understanding and collaboration. We want to share information, seek to understand different perspectives and intentionally reflect the dynamically diverse business community we serve. The Gwinnett Chamber maintains bilateral partnerships with more than a dozen international and minority business organizations and hosts programs designed to celebrate diversity of race, age and gender.

We Advocate Because there is strength in numbers, the Gwinnett Chamber gives a powerful voice to our members in job growth, public policy and leadership. We recruit and retain jobs and industry through the Partnership Gwinnett initiative, advocate public policy at the state and federal levels, learn best practices on strategic visits to other nationally recognized communities and foster next-gen leadership with Gwinnett Young Professionals.

CHAMPION BUSINESS WITH US Join online at GwinnettChamber.org or call 770-232-3000 today!

CITIES GUIDE 7

GOALS Partnership Gwinnett, a public-private initiative, drives economic prosperity by leading and managing business development, convening and catalyzing talent development, and encouraging and supporting community development in five competitive and emerging industries in Gwinnett County.

1

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Lead and manage business development, attracting, expanding, and retaining quality businesses.

2

TALENT DEVELOPMENT Convene and catalyze talent development, aligning and developing diverse talent.

3

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Encourage and support community development, contributing to exceptional quality of life.

TARGET INDUSTRIES

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

CORPORATE & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

IMPACT

35,900

JOBS CREATED

HEALTH SCIENCES & SERVICES

$4.1B

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

CAPITAL INVESTMENT

SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

357

EXPANSIONS &

RELOCATIONS

COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES We support business relocation and expansion, talent recruitment and retention, and community collaboration and growth for our target industries in Gwinnett County.

Award and event opportunities Building and site searches

Company expansion and relocation press announcements

Engagement/networking opportunities with business community Grand opening support

Local and state incentive assistance Permit expediting Research requests

Workforce assistance

WHY GWINNETT? SCAN TO WATCH!

THANK YOU TO OUR ANGEL INVESTORS

DRIVING BUSINESS We drive business through innovation hubs, such as Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners, the first smart city in the nation!

Autonomous vehicles in Peachtree Corners

PartnershipGwinnett.com

CITIES GUIDE 9

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // gwinnett county

GWINNETT COUNTY A hotspot for thriving businesses and expanding opportunity Gwinnett County is a vibrant and rapidly growing community that offers the best of both worlds: the excitement of big-city living and the comforts of suburban life. Known for its award-winning parks, strong education system, reliable infrastructure and cultural diversity, Gwinnett County is committed to its vision of being the preferred community where everyone thrives.

Strategically located in the northeast corner of metro Atlanta—and home to 35,000 businesses of all sizes, including 650 foreign-owned companies—Gwinnett’s vibrant, cosmopolitan community caters to the unique blend of people and places found across its 437 square miles. Businesses can take advantage of a competitive tax structure, upgraded transportation system and access to talented, multilingual individuals across a variety of industries.

With a long history of fiscal stewardship and strategic planning, Gwinnett continues to grow and thrive. At the start of 2023, the Board of Commissioners approved a $2.27 billion budget that prioritizes infrastructure, safety and the County’s financial health.

Gwinnett’s leaders look through a lens of equity to build an inclusive and welcoming environment that reflects the needs of residents and businesses. It’s no surprise that business booms in Gwinnett.

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

981,072

1818

Population:

First Incorporated:

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-822-8000 GwinnettCounty.com @GwinnettGov

CITIES GUIDE 11

Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center Creates Results After opening its doors in 2022, The Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center enrolled 25 members to grow and improve their small businesses.

Located at 405 North Perry Street in Lawrenceville, the center is an entrepreneur and small business support facility operated

by Gwinnett County Government in close collaboration with Georgia Gwinnett College. Last year alone, the facility held 66 events and programs with more than 3,000 attendees, hosted 356 one-on-one

STAY INFORMED BY STAYING CONNECTED 12

CITIES GUIDE

coaching sessions and had 47 small business workshops and peer-to-peer group sessions for both members and non-members.

Impressively, the center’s inaugural group of 25 members has already created 47 jobs.

Yet, the most unique feature of the center is its membership model, which is designed to keep a revolving stream of small business owners enrolled.

At the end of a member’s customized graduation plan, they receive a certificate marking the end of their membership, and an incoming member will replace them.

GwinnettCounty.com

TV Gwinnett

The center provides its members with customized mentorship, working space, connections to capital sources and other tools to help their businesses succeed.

It also provides classes and networking opportunities for non-members trying to launch their business ideas.

To become a member, interested entrepreneurs will need to complete an online application and be selected for an interview. To learn more, visit GwinnettEntrepreneurCenter.com.

@GwinnettGov

Entrepreneur Spotlight In 2022, Jennifer Hong had one main goal: to learn how to grow and scale her medical billing and credentialing business, Eli Medical. She was one of 25 small business owners who became inaugural members of the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center, a business incubator.

After receiving coaching, peer-to-peer learning opportunities and office space from the center, Jennifer has graduated with two successful business ventures under her belt. One of them is her first pharmacy, which is set to open in Gwinnett in 2023.

GWINNETT COUNTY

by the numbers $2.27 billion

Gwinnett County Government budget

80.9%

diversity index

31,000

businesses operating in Gwinnett

2.5%

unemployment rate

733,023

police and fire calls dispatched from the E-911 Center

10,000

acres of green space in County parks system

123

miles of County-maintained roads resurfaced

18,297

individuals avoided eviction or utility disconnection through Project RESET 2.0

An Equitable Government

25.7

billion gallons of drinking water produced

Gwinnett has also focused a keen eye on strengthening business opportunities for women and people of color. Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Hendrickson’s goal is to root out the systematic barriers that have created economic inequalities for minority business owners over the years.

47

Gwinnett is committed to setting the example for equity by tackling this issue with transparency and urgency and launching a countywide business disparity study.

This forthcoming study will help the County assess the inequities that exist in its procurement and contracting processes and the ways it can break through them.

volunteers engaged, resulting in 782,194 service hours

jobs created by Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center members

38,181

CITIES GUIDE 13

Keeping Your Businesses Safe Serving a population of nearly a million residents, Gwinnett Police and Fire and Emergency Services strive to keep our communities safe. Each department provides specialized services to help keep local businesses protected, including the Gwinnett Safe Communities Program and the Workplace Safety Program.

Safe work environments are key to any thriving business. The Workplace Safety Program is a course designed to improve the fire safety of local businesses. Training — including fire prevention, safe building evacuations, portable fire extinguisher usage and hands-only CPR/AED — can help to save lives and protect properties. Through

14 CITIES GUIDE

the Gwinnett Safe Communities Program, Gwinnett Police collaborates with community stakeholders to provide access to best-inclass technologies (like cameras, license plate readers and more) to provide County agencies with more information so that they can respond to emergency situations more efficiently and effectively.

Safety practices implemented into your business can reduce the risk of danger and injuries. To learn more about the Workplace Safety Program, email FirePrograms@GwinnettCounty.com. To join the Gwinnett Safe Communities Network, visit GwinnettSafeCommunities.com.

New Name, New Look and More Mobility Options Formerly known as Gwinnett County Transit, Gwinnett’s transit system has a new name and look inspired by the County’s vibrant brand — Ride Gwinnett. After more than 20 years of service in our county, the transit system’s new look reflects Gwinnett’s evolving focus on mobility.

Gwinnett County continues its efforts to expand its transit services and will soon provide additional mobility options for riders and visitors. This will relieve congestion, increase employment and enhance economic opportunities.

The new planned transit service will include three new local bus routes serving areas in Snellville, Stone Mountain, Buford and Suwanee. The service will also provide extended transit coverage in Lawrenceville, Lilburn and Duluth. With expanded service, more than 50% of Gwinnett residents will have access to transportation options. Ride Gwinnett’s new services will be launched in phases throughout 2023.

To learn more about our local service areas and to stay up to date about new routes, visit RideGwinnett.com.

What’s New at Gwinnett Place Mall The Board of Commissioners recently adopted the Gwinnett Place Mall Site Revitalization Strategy. In the combined effort between Gwinnett County, the Atlanta Regional Commission and the Gwinnett Place Community Improvement District, the redevelopment action plan is set to transform the mall site into the Global Villages — a new, vibrant community comprising seven different villages, oriented around a central park.

Board Chairwoman, Nicole Hendrickson, said the Global Villages concept ensures an inclusive and equitable redevelopment for current residents and businesses. The Gwinnett Place Mall Site Revitalization Strategy includes an action plan for the redevelopment, which is expected to take place over the next 20 years.

CITIES GUIDE 15

MORE THAN BOOKS 3D Print

Podcast

See what all the library has to offer at gwinnettpl.org

Code

Sew

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of auburn

CITY OF

AUBURN True to its railroad roots and soaked in sweet, southern charm, the City of Auburn, Georgia, has been around since 1892. What was once a railroad hub between Athens and Atlanta is now a wholesome town alive with events, amenities and loyal residents.

For active seniors, young families and businesses, Auburn is an ideal community to call home.

Auburn didn’t just begin as a rail town; it was also a college town. The Perry Rainey Institute was founded along with the City in 1892. Homes in Auburn became boarding houses to accommodate students, and the City took off as the railroad and college brought an influx of people to the town. Downtown Auburn became a bustling site for business and leisure which continued into the 21st century. Today, Auburn’s businesses operate out of Whistlestop Shops, a unique business model started by the City in 2016. These cottage-style shops offer small businesses the perfect opportunity to market their products and services in a public setting while keeping costs within their budget.

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

8,094

1892

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Creative events that engage citizens and businesses

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-963-4002 CityofAuburn-Ga.org

CITIES GUIDE 17

CITY OF AUBURN

WHISTLESTOP SHOPS P U T T I N G T H E “ S M A L L” I N “ S M A L L B U S I N E S S ” The biggest roadblock most small businesses face is that they’re small. They often come onto the scene with tight budgets, limited resources and a tiny network of loyal supporters. Even though their reach is inherently small, they’re thrown into a world with big consequences and big competitors and expected to sink or swim.

Auburn’s mayor, Linda Blechinger, City Council and the Downtown Development Association set out to provide a space for the City’s 150+ home-based businesses. As a humble rail town dedicated to preserving its history, Auburn was a blank canvas full of potential.

Without high-rise apartment complexes, amphitheaters or major interstates cutting 18 CITIES GUIDE

through town, Mayor Blechinger had plenty of space to bring her vision for a cottage-style community of local businesses to life.

Seven years ago, Auburn invested $250,000 to construct the Whistlestop Shops, named by a group of local elementary students.

The collection of shops is right next to Auburn City Hall and includes 11 8-by-12-foot cottages which serve as storefronts for local businesses. This idea was inspired by the mayor’s visit to a similar shopping center on St. Simons Island.

The concept of the Whistlestop Shops would generate awareness by placing small businesses front and center in the eyes

of Auburn residents, cutting startup costs drastically with a monthly rent payment of only $250 and eliminating threats of major competitors by surrounding entrepreneurs with other similarly positioned business owners. The idea quickly caught the attention of locals with home businesses and other small businesses in the surrounding area.

Nowadays, every shop is occupied, and so is the waitlist of interested business owners.

The shops have become one of the City’s biggest assets, right up there with its railroad history. Visitors and residents flock to the Whistlestop Shops daily for various product and service needs. Currently, the shops include a barber shop, bakery, jewelry store,

woodworking shop, candle shop, seamstress, day spa and more. Each business operates independently of the City, with the ability to choose its hours and host events.

Auburn champions its Whistlestop Shop owners in any way it can, like promoting them on social media, hosting well-attended city-wide events in front of the shops and reserving a place for them in the City’s future.

As Auburn looks forward to many new developments promising to bring a downtown atmosphere to the City, its biggest priority is preserving natural beauty and historical significance. The future of downtown Auburn will be an eye-catching one, paying homage to the railroad through architecture, enhancing, but not eliminating, green space and, of course, giving its fateful Whistlestop Shops the spotlight they deserve in the center of all the action.

events CITY OF AUBURN

spring Auburn Ever After

summer Independence Day Celebration

The Whistlestop Shops are a cornerstone of the redevelopment now coming to downtown Auburn.

Linda Blenchinger

Mayor

Since the shops opened, Auburn’s population has almost doubled. Mayor Blechinger attributes this to the City’s steps toward investing in the local community, which started with creating the Whistlestop Shops.

“People and developers are taking notice of this and looking to become part of our community,” she explains.

fall AuburnFest

Meet Whistlestop Shop Owner, Brooke Haney

winter “Sounding Off the Christmas Season”

“I have been in the shops for over six years selling custom items like shirts, bags, Koozies and car decals. My store, Dragonfly Dreams, has grown tremendously since I’ve been here. I love my little cottage. It’s the perfect size for a business like mine!”

Visit Dragonfly Dreams at cottage #4!

1369 4th Ave, Auburn, GA 30011

STAY CONNECTED CityofAuburn-Ga.org

City of Auburn, GA @cityofauburn

CITIES GUIDE 19

WE CHAMPION BUSINESS

GwinnettChamber.org

WE DRIVE BUSINESS

PartnershipGwinnett.com

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of berkeley lake

CITY OF

BERKELEY LAKE Berkeley Lake, a portrait of tranquil, Southern living for those lucky enough to call it home, has roots in the children of local families that grew up seeking repose beside the lake each summer.

Once the lake was established in the early 50s, tiny red roofs of fishing cabins and boat houses began dotting the shores and Berkeley Lake became a lesser-known retreat, drawing fishermen and their families. It was only a matter of time before the lake was recognized for its appeal. Builders flocked to the area, Peachtree Industrial was paved and Berkeley Lake became a city.

Recent accolades include:

Tree City USA, Arbor Day Foundation Urban & Community Forest Grant Award Tree City USA Growth Award, Arbor Day Foundation Urban Wildlife Sanctuary designation, Humane Society of America

Photo Credit: Rob Hiller

Photo Credit: Rob Hiller

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

2,147

1956

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

88-acre namesake lake, Lake Berkeley

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-368-9484 BerkeleyLake.com

CITIES GUIDE 21

CITY OF BERKELEY LAKE:

A LAKESIDE LEGACY Photo Credit: Rob Hiller

Pristine Preservation Berkeley Lake strives to honor and preserve its natural gifts. By creating the Berkeley Lake Conservancy, the City has guarded a beautiful ecosystem. This has led to Berkeley Lake’s designation as an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary and more than 20 consecutive years of recognition as a ‘Tree City USA’ by the Arbor Day Foundation.

Ready for Business Additionally, Berkeley Lake is home to an interesting mix of small and medium businesses from an award-winning recording studio to technology startups and an internationally renowned organ builder.

22 CITIES GUIDE

With 25% of residents holding a master’s degree or higher and 41% a bachelor’s degree, Berkeley Lake has a highly educated population. An exceptional workforce, the highest per capita income in the state and a median home value of $500,000 sets businesses and employees up for success.

Plus, local businesses benefit from some of the lowest millage rates, license fees and occupational taxes in Gwinnett County.

A Personal Approach to Community The people who come to Berkeley Lake rarely leave because of the personable culture Berkeley Lake has created as a city that looks after each other. As a certified Compassionate City, everyone knows and cares for each other. With a population of just

over 2,000 people, the city of Berkeley Lake has beenable to retain the intimacy of a small town, while providing a high level of service and efficiency.

Some of the most heartfelt testimonials of the City’s character come from the longterm residents that have played a role in the community since the very start.

As a Compassionate Community, there is somewhat of an unspoken rule among residents to look out for each other and do what can be done for the sake of community.

Perhaps this remarkable fellowship resulting from generations of community ties, is the reason so few residents choose to leave their lakeside oasis behind, and instead, leave legacies.

resident testimonies Mayor Lois Salter

Scott Lee

“People think the natural beauty is what’s special about our City, but what really makes the difference is the people.”

“It’s a multigenerational community.

Once someone moves in, they stick around, and usually so do their kids.”

When she first moved to Berkeley Lake, Lois recognized a rare sense of unity that inspired her to run for office. She now participates in monthly chapel services, local volunteer efforts and even a “random acts of kindness” committee

Lane Shutt & Joan Riley “This lake was my salvation.” - Joan Riley What started at the women’s community service group BLOSOMS, flourished into a 23 year long friendship between Lane Shutt and Joan Riley. Lane spent 28 years as a teacher building relationships with Berkeley Lake students and their families, while Joan served her fellow women at BLOSOMS. Both women, now retired, pour themselves into volunteer work and leave lasting imprints on their community.

The lifetime of memories shared with his father beside Berkeley Lake was enough to keep Scott in that same spot for most of his life. He now lives just down the road from his childhood home, and wishes the same for his own children.

Bernie Cohen “I’m able to surround myself with the beauty of nature while still being close to shopping and restaurants.”

events CITY OF BERKELEY LAKE

The City of Berkeley Lake sponsors several community events throughout each year: Earth Day Independence Day Arbor Day Ceremonies and Tree Planting

During his time as mayor, Bernie helped complete the first 10 year plan as required by the state alongside council member John Skrobko. He also resisted efforts to expand highways, built a spillway for the lake and began the effort that would eventually acquire 70 acres of greenspace for the community.

STAY CONNECTED BerkeleyLake.com

Photo Credit: Rob Hiller CITIES GUIDE 23

Southern hospitality, in the heart of Downtown.

NEW! Modern, versatile event venue

Bring your corporate or private event to the Braselton Civic Center, opened in 2022. It offers a variety of spaces to accommodate large or small events.

Amenities include a state-of-the-art audio-visual system, full-service in-house catering with commercial kitchen, and a green room or bridal dressing room, and more.

Small-town charm

Less than an hour from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, but a world away, Downtown Braselton is the perfect setting with restaurants, shopping, and yearround events, all within walking distance. Or rent the Braselton Trolley for access to area attractions and shuttle services for your party.

E XPLO R E BRASELTON .COM/ CI VIC- CEN TER

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // town of braselton

TOWN OF

BRASELTON Though the list of Gwinnett County cities continues to grow, there remains only one town in Gwinnett. The Town of Braselton; home to international destinations, big-name corporations and 14,000 residents. While there may be no legal difference between a city and a town in Georgia, Braselton testifies that there is a difference in atmosphere.

With borders in Gwinnett, Barrow, Hall and Jackson counties, Braselton was incorporated in 1916. History oozes from the Town’s charming center marked by restored and repurposed structures. The brewery was once a cotton gin, the old schoolhouse became an antique store and the service station now dispenses craft cocktails. At the center of it all lies The 1904, a collective of local artisans and eateries which mirrors its predecessor, the once esteemed Braselton Brothers mercantile and the center of commerce at the time. Juxtaposed with the Town’s early history is its modern culture of fine wine and fast cars, thanks to the lavish Chateau Elan Winery & Resort and iconic Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

But speed and lux merely amplify the true heartbeat of Braselton: its resident-driven sense of community.

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

14,383

1916

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

International racing, fine wine and a luxury resort

KEEP IN TOUCH

706-654-3915 ExploreBraselton.com CITIES GUIDE 25

T O W N O F B R A S E LT O N :

CONNECTING A

COMMUNITY T H E B R A S E LTO N L I F E PAT H

Fifty-six Braselton property owners have committed themselves to being firestarters of business and community improvement.

By opting to invest a little extra money back into the community, businesses can become a part of a unique public-private partnership within the Braselton Community Improvement District (CID).

Pristine highways, abundant sidewalks and trails and an overarching sense of community are some indicators that a CID may have played a hand in a region’s development efforts. CIDs across the state work to provide additional amenities and facilities to area residents and business owners while generating economic development within the district. Braselton’s CID, however, is uniquely 26 CITIES GUIDE

positioned as one of the smallest in Gwinnett and the only in the State of Georgia to serve three different counties: Gwinnett, Barrow and Hall.

Amidst a series of efforts to improve transportation and increase walkability in the region emerged the Braselton LifePath, brainchild of Scott Snedecor, Chair and Founder of the Braselton CID.

Rising Walkability and Cart-ability Scott had a vision for a community connected by foot, wheelchair, golf cart or other. Instead of a traditional sidewalk, the Braselton LifePath is a nine-mile, 10-foot-wide concrete

walkway designed to accommodate a variety of transportation including golf carts, wheelchairs and non-motorized vehicles – all of which are far better suited for convenience and sustainability than cars.

The LifePath spans over half of Braselton, connecting all CID businesses and the surrounding residents. The path meanders through six centers of commerce including Liberty Village, Mulberry Walk, Plaza 211, Mulberry Place, Mulberry Centre and Stone Crossing. By capitalizing on myriad golf cart communities in and around Braselton, the LifePath works to decrease traffic and the region’s carbon footprint while bringing residents from across town to the doorsteps of over 100 local businesses.

events

A Path for the People

T O W N O F B R A S E LT O N

While the LifePath is predominantly a place for locals to exercise and socialize, the Town of Braselton has found an unprecedented use for the trail: PathFest. What was once the Paddy’s Day PathFest, PathFest now happens twice a year thanks to its popularity among residents. During the weekends of St. Patrick’s Day and Halloween, every member of the Braselton community, golf cart or not, is invited to take part in a town-wide parade.

Those with golf carts turn them into parade floats and join the brigade down the LifePath, while those without join the fun by catching goodies on the sidelines. After the parade, families can embark on the PathQuest, a scavenger hunt in participating businesses.

The Town and other area organizations also promote health, wellness and community relations through other events hosted along the LifePath like walks, 5Ks and outdoor fitness classes. With infinite uses, the CID’s investment in the path pays for itself tenfold.

Its presence serves as a constant reminder of healthy living and social connectivity, making it indispensable.

Without the CID’s example of what could be, the governmental entities wouldn’t have felt it was such a priority to extend the infrastructure and expand the amenity to make it available to so many.

Jennifer Scott

Town Manager

spring Paddy’s Day PathFest Antique & Artisan Festival Historic Sportscar Racing Mitty Drift Atlanta

summer Weekly Farmers Market Wine Walks Movies on the Town Green July 4th Fireworks and Festival

Miles to Go

fall

The creation of the LifePath eventually sparked a greater, deeper movement toward a blaring future of connectivity in Braselton.

With the addition of the trail came endless opportunities for expansion, sparking discussion of a trail network that could extend to every corner of the Town.

Antique & Artisan Festival

Last year, the Town worked to create a comprehensive connection plan, making long-term use of the LifePath and enhancing transportation throughout Braselton with the Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization (GHMPO). The plan is already making progress, starting with the highly anticipated Highway 211 widening and Braselton Parkway Extension.

Cravin’ Bacon Walk

At this rate, Braselton residents will soon be spending more and more time on golf carts, bikes and feet and far less time idling in rush hour traffic.

Pooches in the Park Petit Le Mans Vineyard Fest

winter Downtown Chocolate Walk Holiday Parade and Festival

STAY CONNECTED ExploreBraselton.com Explore Braselton @explorebraselton

CITIES GUIDE 27

Celebrating 35 years of transforming children’s lives! from

homeless hopeful to

MAUREEN KORNOWA

Executive Director

Covid-19 has made the need even greater.

Help end homelessness.

MAUREEN KORNOWA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of buford

CITY OF

BUFORD Welcome to Buford—a city alive with history and culture! Get acquainted with Buford’s charming streets in its historic downtown district complete with restaurants, shops and galleries. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a full-course meal before a casual stroll along Main Street. Then, get your entertainment fix at the Buford Community Center, right across the street at the charming Sylvia Beard Theatre or the Mall of Georgia, home to the biggest names in shopping and a world-class movie theater. Greater Buford also offers major-league excitement in its backyard as a neighbor to the Gwinnett Stripers, a Triple-A Affiliate of the Atlanta Braves.

But, the family-centric community Buford has become is primarily due to one thing: the award-winning Buford City School System. The shining star of the community is a result of a longstanding commitment to education which began before the City’s founding in 1872. Since becoming an independent school district in 1912, Buford has remained a pillar of educational excellence in Georgia.

Photo Credit: Gene Phillips

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

17,683

1872

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

The Buford Dam and Lanier Islands

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-945-6761 CityOfBuford.com

CITIES GUIDE 29

CITY OF BUFORD:

BUILDING COMMUNITY; SERVING STUDENTS BUFORD CITY SCHOOLS

The five schools that make up Buford City Schools stand stoically. The campus resembles a high-class university more closely than a local public school district. But all of the prestige and sophistication isn’t for nothing. Buford City Schools is dubbed the No. 1 school district in the state of Georgia time and time again. With a 93% graduation rate and average test scores almost double those of the state, it’s no wonder young parents relocate to the City of Buford every year in search of a top-tier education for their young ones.

The eyes of Buford City Schools have always been on the world.

30 CITIES GUIDE

Here From the Start We want our students to leave Buford City Schools and be competitive on an international level.

Melanie Reed

Superintendent

The story of Buford City Schools starts in a log cabin in 1869. Here, 25 students attended school for three months each summer.

Slowly, the student classes grew each year and new buildings went up to serve different purposes, including a gymnasium, an auditorium, a grammar school and more.

One superintendent oversaw all schools in the district. This history shows that there was never a point at which the Buford school district separated from Gwinnett County Schools, but rather that they were always separate entities.

Today, the school system’s distinction from a county-level school system creates an advantage for students. With support and funding from the City and the rest of the community to back it, Buford Schools offer state-of-the-art facilities, competitive teacher salaries and a school-wide attitude of excellence.

A Celebration of Differences With a diverse student body speaking over 30 languages, Buford City Schools has recently found a way to champion its multicultural students through International Night. Created by Dr. Lacrecia Smith, head of diversity and inclusion, International Night offers students a chance to showcase their culture to the community. All students are encouraged to participate by preparing food, making art, joining in performances or simply experiencing the cultures of their peers.

concerts S Y LV I A B E A R D T H E AT R E :

BCSS International Night is an annual event that can best be described as a ‘quick trip around the world’. It is a grand celebration of the diverse cultures represented within Buford City Schools and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Lacrecia Smith

Head of Diversity and Inclusion

spring The Lettermen The Troubadour Project Tapestry The Rupert’s Orchestra

summer Drivin N Cryin Mother’s Finest Zoso Back In Black

fall Boys In The Band The Mad Hatters

Setting Up for Success

The Randall Bramblett Band

While most schools offer dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, student participation in these programs is at an alltime high within the Buford school district.

This, along with the school’s competitive career and technical classes, allow most, if not all, students to graduate with some sort of college credit and a clear idea of their career plans. “We feel good that we are preparing our students to pursue and succeed in whatever they want to do,” says Melanie.

Live At The Garden

The high expectations extend beyond the classroom. As a school with 7A status, the City has established a well-respected athletics program. Locals get excited to rally together in support of student-athletes, often under the Friday night lights. With recent state championships in volleyball, wrestling, football and gymnastics and a nationally recognized fine arts program, the school’s spirit of success seeps into the surrounding community.

Purple Piano Six One Five Collective

winter Merry Country Christmas The Everly Brothers Experience Atlanta Pops Christmas with Timothy Miller Street Choir Rumours Always ABBA Dr. Daylight’s Jazz Company

STAY CONNECTED CityOfBuford.com

CITIES GUIDE 31

THE WATER TOWER Gwinnett County has a long history of excellence and innovation in the water industry, and county leaders continue to lead by example with the opening of the global water innovation hub, The Water Tower (TWT).

is ongoing at TWT, with approximately 1,200 water-related positions with all training, certifications and support necessary to pursue a career in water research expected to open in North Georgia in the next five years.

The Water Tower officially launched in 2019 and comprises two nonprofit organizations: The Water Tower at Gwinnett, which manages on-campus development and operations, and The Water Tower Institute, which develops solutions, instruction and engagement programming. Together, these entities foster positive impacts for the water industry in Gwinnett County, the region, the Southeast and beyond.

Meanwhile, technology innovation at TWT aims to lead the industry in the development and demonstration of on-the-ground and digital technologies. Innovation also happens during technology validation, in which TWT provides an independent, third-party review of water technologies against their advertised metrics.

The Water Tower’s mission centers around four core pillars: applied research, workforce development, technology innovation and community engagement. It ensures safe, affordable and resilient water services for all Gwinnett County residents.

Applied research starts at TWT and brings in research partners to lead water improvement projects like the Lake Lanier Watershed FiveYear Research Plan. Workforce development 32 CITIES GUIDE

The final and most influential piece of the mission, community engagement, tackles the challenge of informing stakeholders and the general public of TWT’s efforts and encouraging discussions to spark change when needed in the water industry. Industry professionals can attend networking events like W3 (women, water and wine) and Demo Day, which offers a peek at the industry’s latest technologies.

But engagement extends beyond the water industry. To get plugged in and support the mission of TWT, Gwinnett County residents can attend community events like The Watering Hole Golf Tournament to benefit TWT programming and the Water Innovation & Leadership Summit for high school students, or residents can visit the Tour F. Wayne Hill Water Resources Center for interactive tours of the facility.

The Water Tower is committed to creating a thriving ecosystem of water innovation fueled by imagination, informed by research and powered by pioneers. This mission is accomplished by bringing the water community together, including utilities, academia, nonprofits and water-related businesses, on campus and hosting national events to tackle the industry’s most significant challenges.

To learn more about The Water Tower or to schedule a tour, please visit TheH2OTower.org.

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of dacula

CITY OF

DACULA The 5.5-square-mile City of Dacula was founded in 1905, earning its place at the center of Georgia’s Innovation Crescent.

Over time, the unique, small-town experience Dacula residents have grown to love has shaped a sense of community found nowhere else. Though the City is adamant about maintaining its hometown feel and sense of southern hospitality, development opportunities continuously present themselves thanks to its prime location. Now, with the eyes of the world on modern science and technology, Dacula is pursuing a future of development and innovation.

Recent accolades include:

No. 1 Place to Buy a Home, Niche.com Home to one of the largest Memorial Day Parades in the state

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

7,008

1905

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Location at the center of the Innovation Crescent

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-963-7451 DaculaGa.gov

CITIES GUIDE 33

Rowen Village will be a vibrant space with a mix of offices, multi-family residential, community spaces, restaurants and the arts.

CITY OF DACULA:

NEIGHBOR TO GWINNETT’S FIRST

KNOWLEDGE COMMUNITY Breaking Ground on the Rowen Project It was only a matter of time before the City of Dacula and its surrounding area of lush forests was discovered by the world. In a matter of years, Dacula will become the closest neighbor to a long sought-after, neverbefore-seen knowledge community promising to birth thousands of life-altering ideas, creations and discoveries. According to the Rowen Foundation, “Knowledge communities are a reimagination and reinvention of the traditional office and research environment.”

Rowen officially broke ground in midDecember 2022 when the Rowen Foundation planted the first tree, signifying the community’s roots. The Rowen project is designed to bring industry leaders, learners and researchers together to inspire scientific advancement across Gwinnett, Georgia and the Southeastern U.S. 34 CITIES GUIDE

Though completion of the entire Rowen campus isn’t expected for over 50 years, the project is already creating hundreds of jobs through its first phase of infrastructure construction. The Foundation is also planning construction of the Rowen Convergence Center, which should start construction mid-2024. The center will serve as the

The Rowen project will have a stronger impact on our region than anything before.

This tops the Olympics in Atlanta.

Trey King Mayor

Rowen Foundation’s headquarters as well as a meeting and collaboration space for its first community partners.

A Whole New City Until now, Dacula has remained a hard-working blue-collar community. However, when fully completed, Rowen expects to create over 100,000 high-paying jobs and generate eight to ten billion dollars of annual labor income for the region, which would flip the City’s current economic climate on its side.

For a better picture of Dacula’s future, in just over ten years, the City expects 18,500 more jobs than today, a thriving local business community and a network of stakeholders ranging from Fortune 500s to higher education institutions to patented researchers.

Location, Location, Location The region that encompasses both Dacula and the future Rowen development has been dubbed the “heart of Georgia’s Innovation Crescent.” The Innovation Crescent reaches from Atlanta, home of the state’s largest educational institution, to Athens, the birthplace of public higher education in America. The two educational powerhouses and 16 surrounding cities support the state-wide push to drive innovation and work to recruit, retain and expand inventive businesses in the region. Dacula’s position as the center of these cities makes it prominent in the eyes of researchers, engineers and scientists.

“For years, Dacula has been referred to as part of the ‘Innovation Crescent’ without much innovation happening. Now, with Rowen so close, we can finally fill those shoes,” Mayor Trey King explained.

Keeping True to Dacula’s Roots

Dacula and its surrounding area has a rich history of agriculture marked by acres of farmland. This land will be well-maintained and serve a new purpose as the cornerstone of Rowen. In addition to taking all necessary precautions to preserve its environment, the Rowen project is founded on principles of agriculture like climate change, renewable resources, biotechnology, modern medicine and more.

Even amidst the life-changing opportunities Rowen will bring to Dacula, the City is confident that its heartbeat will remain unwavering. Both business and residential interest in the area has skyrocketed at just the announcement of Rowen. In fact, the creation of Rowen will serve as the first step toward acquiring sewer access in Dacula, which could create a migration of startups and enable Dacula to reinvent itself as a city driven by research, sustained by the land and passionate about the livelihood of its residents.

events CITY OF DACULA

spring Memorial Day Parade Earth Day Litter Cleanup Thursdays at Maple Creek Park

fall Thursdays at Maple Creek Park

winter Dacula Community Christmas Tree Lighting

The Rowen Foundation, the non-profit entity behind the new development, aims to take advantage of its spot in the Innovation Crescent in its plans for the hub. Rowen will drive education, research, innovation and transformation from the very center of it all. As for Dacula itself, the City has strong agricultural roots, which Rowen promises to sustain even as it expands.

Rowen will build on the site’s rich history of thoughtful environmental stewardship by preserving and enhancing green spaces both in the Village and throughout the site.

STAY CONNECTED DaculaGa.gov

City of Dacula CITIES GUIDE 35

12STONE.COM

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of duluth

CITY OF

DULUTH The City of Duluth has always been positioned for greatness. What started when the railroad came to the City in 1871 has transformed into the vibrant, artful Atlanta suburb called Duluth today. A trip to downtown Duluth could bring you face-to-face with the City’s massive public art collection, up close and personal with your favorite musicians at Gas South Arena or patio-side as you indulge in flavors worldwide.

In fact, Duluth has spent years acquiring its renowned collection of local restaurants, each adding something special to the foodie scene. Diners can indulge in fare from whimsical, gourmet dishes to steaks, seafood, zesty Tex-Mex and dessert-shaped sushi. It’s undeniable that downtown Duluth is a restaurateur’s paradise.

Recent accolades include:

Top 10 Atlanta Neighborhoods, Newcomer Magazine Ninth Safest City in Georgia, National Council of Home Safety and Security Top 10 Places to Live Under $40,000, AARP Top 10 City for Best American Values, News Max Magazine Second Best Atlanta Suburb, Atlanta Journal Constitution

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

33,454

1876

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

We are a city divided (by the Eastern Continental Divide)

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-476-3434 DuluthGa.net

CITIES GUIDE 37

FROM CITY OF DULUTH

TRADITION TO TABLE When it comes to flavor, if you can’t find it in Atlanta, chances are you can find it in Duluth.

Like any Gwinnett County city, Duluth is a melting pot of customs, cultures and cuisines, and the best way to experience the diversity is to taste it.

As the heart of Gwinnett’s Asian community and home to members of many other ethnicities, including Venezuelan, Mediterranean, German and more, cultural influence permeates Duluth’s dining scene. The growing mecca of crave-worthy restaurants and international menus is even known to draw Atlantans out of the perimeter to indulge.

Many of Duluth’s current restaurant owners recall the vision of a vibrant, welcoming downtown community taking off about 10 years ago. The City’s enthusiasm for shopping local and willingness to accommodate vendors gained the interest of dozens of small business owners and hasn’t stopped 38 CITIES GUIDE

since. Today, Duluth is home to 1,500 businesses founded in the City, while restaurants comprise 10% of those.

However, none ended up here on a whim.

With location being the biggest driving factor of a restaurant’s success, these restaurateurs will be the first to admit opening up shop in Duluth was no accident.

T H E P IONEERS OF DULUTH’ S DINING SCENE: George Yu, Owner of Noona Meat & Seafood In December 2017, George Yu opened Noona, a fine dining destination with a coastal concept. The name George chose pays homage to the inspirational women in his life.

Growing up in Gwinnett, George had confidence his restaurant would thrive, and his coastal cuisine filled a need in Duluth. As he worked to open Noona, the City guided him through obstacles like renovating a century-old building and withstanding the pandemic.

George believes there’s no such thing as too many cooks in the kitchen when it comes to creating a diverse dining experience. “More restaurants and diversity give more guests a reason to come to downtown Duluth,” he explains.

Three restaurants—Thai and Sushi EAV, Poke Burri and Lifting Noodles Ramen—share a kitchen on the first floor, which serves three different versions of Asian cuisine. Upstairs, Empanada House serves Asian empanadas, boba tea and Sake cocktails. But Sweet Octopus isn’t just notable for its unique layout; it also offers menu items that can’t be found anywhere else (ever had a sushi donut or sushi pizza?)

Todd DiMatteo, Owner of Good Word Brewing & Public House Good Word Brewing has served their community farm fresh flavors, handcrafted cocktails and incredible beers for six years.

Todd DiMatteo attributes his decision to plant Good Word in Duluth solely to the city staff.

To him, the City took on the role of a business partner to accommodate the restaurant’s every need.

Simon Ho also supports the City’s mission of diverse dining. “The people that come in inspire me to look at what other cultures are doing and reflect that in our menu however we can.”

Simon Ho, Manager of Sweet Octopus With a cherished cultural background of his own, Simon Ho finds Sweet Octopus’s home in Duluth a fitting environment for himself, his staff and the ensemble of Asian dishes on the restaurant’s menu.

spring Farmers & Artisan Market Spring Arts Festival GWB Presents Little Beer

summer Farmers & Artisan Market Flicks on the Bricks Fridays-N-Duluth Bubblepalooza

“The City of Duluth was literally and figuratively involved every step of the way.

They know that our successes are linked and they take that seriously,” Todd states.

Now, the brewery and restaurant prides itself on sharing the “Good Word” with the community: a message of gathering, welcoming, spending time together and enjoying good food and drink. Todd is honored to have a place in the rich culture of downtown Duluth and hopes to continue the fusion of personalities, ideas and beliefs within the four walls of Good Word Brewing.

events CITY OF DULUTH

Art Month Viva Las Duluth

fall Barbara and Chuck Woods, Owners of Falling Rabbit

Farmers & Artisan Market Howl on the Green Night at the Red Clay

By the time Falling Rabbit hit the scene in November 2020, Duluth was ablaze with dozens of unique restaurants. But Barbara and Chuck Woods had no problem developing a fascinating concept unlike any other for their dream restaurant.

Duluth on Tap

Falling Rabbit offers casual, fine dining, creatively presenting quality ingredients in plates resembling artworks. With endless opportunities as a part of Parson’s Alley and the continued support of residents, Chuck and Barbara are more confident in Falling Rabbit than ever.

Cookies & Cocoa with Santa

“Duluth offers a hometown, neighborhood vibe that flows into the restaurant and compliments our concept of fine casual dining,” they say, explaining that the way of life downtown is a product of the City’s loyalty to residents and businesses.

winter Farmers & Artisan Market Deck the Hall

Night at the Red Clay

STAY CONNECTED DuluthGa.net/events City of Duluth @city_of_duluth

CITIES GUIDE 39

GROW CONNECT IMPACT GwinnettYoungProfessionals.com

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of grayson

CITY OF

GRAYSON The residents of Grayson have fostered the ‘all-in-this-together’ spirit the community is known for today for generations. The names of the farmers and landowners that helped establish the City are still relevant today; on street signs, in residents’ last names and on schools and government buildings. The City’s pride in its small-town atmosphere with lots of character has resulted in an undying commitment to stay true to Grayson’s communal environment.

Grayson is known as the community that cares. And community is one of the biggest things Grayson cares about. The City views itself as more than a bedroom community. There’s always an event, social or benefit concert to look forward to, and everyone is always invited. The City’s centerpiece, Grayson City Park, is the site of all the action, serving as a gathering space for events throughout the year. More than just an opportunity for rest and relaxation, these events bring the Grayson community together.

Recent accolades include:

Live, Work, Play City Award, Georgia Municipal Association

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

4,900

1901

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Our sense of community

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-963-8017 CityofGrayson.org

CITIES GUIDE 41

AN OPEN CITY OF GRAYSON

INVITATION

For a long time now, the City of Grayson has worked hard to give its residents something to look forward to at all times. With 12 free, city-hosted events and two fundraisers staggered throughout the year, Grayson residents need never wander outside city limits for a good time. The biggest hope of the City staff is that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, background or social circles, feels welcome in Grayson.

The creative, energetic and, most importantly, free events that Grayson has come to be known for are the City’s most considerable efforts toward achieving that goal.

We noticed many locals and their families had a hard time affording events and entertainment, especially after COVID, so we want to show we care and offer a chance to get out of the house and have a little fun Amanda Leftwich

Community Development Director 42 CITIES GUIDE

The City has been making improvements and renovations to enhance the event experience.

The newest addition is the Ampavilion, a performing space that has enabled Grayson to join the ranks of other Gwinnett County cities hosting free summer concerts. Along with a summer concert series, the Ampavilion holds benefit concerts like Peace, Love, Grayson every June and Moonshiners’ Music Fest every October, both of which raise proceeds to benefit the Southeast Gwinnett Co-Op. But beyond concerts, Grayson strives to dream up unconventional, out-of-the-box

events that capture the attention of residents and those outside of Grayson. In addition to hosting free shows and movies throughout the summer, the City invites everyone to join in on the fun at other intriguing events like Shakespeare in the Park, Grayson Day, Block Party, Christmas in July and more. Enjoy “backyard” theater productions delivered in Elizabethan English, celebrate the art of small-town living, kick off the school year in style and visit Santa while sipping cocoa in 90-degree weather, throughout the year in Grayson!

events CITY OF GRAYSON

spring Grayson Days Festival Movie in the Park

Though Grayson continues to move farther and farther away from its mold as a bedroom community (especially with recent developments like the Railyard), the City holds its status as a small-town community close to its heart. For that reason, the few small businesses that do call downtown Grayson home hold much of the City’s identity, which is why the City has begun roping them in to create events reflective of Grayson’s character.

Concerts in the Park

Since there aren’t many food truck options nearby, local restaurants cater to concerts and City events. Instead of hiring a workout instructor to host weekly fitness classes, a local wellness center and Bodyplex team up to do it. Rather than leaving Bingo Night up to retirement and nursing homes, Piedmont Eastside invites them downtown for Bingo, line dancing and more.

Movie in the Park

“We love participating in the City of Grayson’s outdoor events. While it brings us great exposure in a growing community, we look at it as an opportunity to give back to a community that has supported us throughout the years,” explains Sonny Guy, owner of Moonshiners Bar and Grill, a go-to caterer for many Grayson events.

Team Up & Clean Up

summer Peace Love Grayson Concert Featuring The Breakfast Club Shakespeare in the Park Christmas in July Concerts in the Park

fall Grayson has found a way to include all locals and highlight any local businesses wishing to participate in the festivities. With so many residents and outsiders in attendance, these events allow companies to showcase their products and services to much larger audiences than usual. Plus, Grayson visitors tend to seek out goodies at the rest of the town’s shops, making these events a perk for all Grayson businesses.

While most cities host their own seasonal events, there’s something about the intentionality Grayson places behind theirs that sets them apart. They don’t prioritize high attendance and dollars spent but focus on cultivating a welcoming atmosphere. One that resembles Grayson itself, a place free of busyness and crowds and filled to the brim with family, friends and those who will soon become friends.

Grayson Block Party Moonshiners Music Festival Trunk or Treat Team Up & Clean Up

winter Christmas in Grayson

STAY CONNECTED CityofGrayson.org

CITIES GUIDE 43

THE CITIES OF

GWINNETT COUNTY

Su H

Suwanee

AWA R D-W I NNI NG SCH O O L S Gwinnett and its cities are home to several awardwinning public and private schools including:

Buford

Duluth Peachtree Corners

Berkeley Lake 23

Buford High School

Dacula

Dacula High School Hebron Christian Academy

120

85 Norcross

Lawrenc 29

Duluth

McClure Health Science High School Notre Dame Academy

Lilburn

Grayson

Grayson High School

Lawrenceville

Archer High School Central Gwinnett High School Collins Hill High School Discovery High School Gwinnett Online Campus Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology Mountain View High School

44 CITIES GUIDE

78

*Rest

Lilburn

Haven

Berkmar High School Killian Hill Christian School Parkview High School

Buford

ugar Hill

Norcross

985

Braselton

85

Greater Atlanta Christian School Meadowcreek High School Norcross High School Paul Duke STEM High School

Peachtree Corners Wesleyan School

324

Auburn

Snellville

Brookwood High School Shiloh High School South Gwinnett High School

Sugar Hill

Lanier High School Sugar Hill Christian Academy

316

Suwanee Dacula

ceville

North Gwinnett High School Peachtree Ridge High School

Other

Mill Creek High School Providence Christian Academy

124

Grayson 20

Snellville Loganville *REST HAVEN: Population 62 Rest Haven, the smallest of Gwinnett’s municipalities, straddles the line between Gwinnett and Hall counties near Buford. Founded in 1938 to eliminate a rowdy roadhouse that fell within its city limits, Rest Haven charges no property taxes and has only a few zoning regulations, the most notable being the prohibition against alcohol sales since its founding.

CITIES GUIDE 45

DON’T JUST LIVE HERE...

COME

Where Historic Charm Meets Vibrant Growth Explore our new Arts Center and The Lawn, surrounded by copious amounts of free parking, new housing, restaurants and small businesses that hold true to our historic design. The magic of Lawrenceville lies in the PERFORMING ARTS. Any given week you can COME ALIVE with a play, a musical act, comedy, or games. Exciting things are happening here, and we invite you to JOIN IN THE FUN.

»

SCAN THE QR CODE TO “COME ALIVE” WITH US

www.LawrencevilleGA .org

CityofLawrenceville

GALawrenceville

CityofLawrenceville

VIBRANT GROWTH • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • DYNAMIC COMMUNITY • RESPONSIVE SERVICES

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of lawrenceville

CITY OF

LAWRENCEVILLE Culture and creativity abound in Downtown Lawrenceville while shopping, enjoying outdoor festivals, and dining al fresco at one of “The DTL’s” multiple outdoor dining locations. Downtown Lawrenceville is filled with life. Enjoy live performances at many local restaurants, the Lawrenceville Arts Center, the Aurora Theatre’s new home and outdoor concerts at the Lawrenceville Lawn. Sit back and relax at well over a dozen award-winning eateries and two unique breweries.

Lawrenceville also doubles as a home away from home for 11,000 Georgia Gwinnett College students. In addition to being a sports powerhouse in the NAIA division, the four-year college continues as an essential workforce generator for Gwinnett.

Meanwhile, Northside Hospital Gwinnett’s Lawrenceville campus is undergoing a major campus expansion to better serve the healthcare needs of the community.

Exciting things are happening and anyone and everyone is invited to come alive in Lawrenceville!

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

31,253

1821

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Gwinnett’s only professional theatre, the Aurora Theatre

KEEP IN TOUCH

678-963-2414 LawrencevilleGa.org DowntownLawrencevilleGa.com CITIES GUIDE 47

CITY OF LAWRENCEVILLE

IGNITING CHANGE THROUGH ART Amid its thriving community of actors, musicians, comedians and artists, the City of Lawrenceville has always been an avid supporter of the arts. In an effort to further elevate the community of local doers and makers, the City of Lawrenceville recently invested $41 million into the development of the Lawrenceville Arts Center (LAC).

The 59,500-square-foot arts center opened in October 2021, bringing with it a 500seat Grand Theatre, an art gallery, and four other performing spaces. With five different entertainment venues across the two-building campus, the LAC has the ability to accommodate a diverse array of artistic events including concerts, plays, comedy acts, art classes, community events and more.

The venues each offer differently sized stages and performance spaces to accommodate all group sizes and needs. Each comes with a wide range of amenities including ADA compliance, full bars, catering services, in-house AV and event support and consultations with LAC staff. These spaces are available to outside arts groups and the public to rent for any use from full-scale productions to education to weddings and celebrations.

48 CITIES GUIDE

Forging a Unique Partnership A piece of the inspiration behind the development of the arts center comes from Lawrenceville’s long-standing partnership with Aurora Theatre, the second-largest professional theater company in Georgia and Gwinnett’s only professional theater.

In 2007, the theatre relocated from a converted hardware store in Duluth to a 100-year-old church in Lawrenceville, now the Bobby Sikes Fine Arts Building.

“I have seen the incredible partnership between the City and Aurora. There is a deeply shared desire to bring this campus to life. The experience is driven by passion on both sides,” noted John Geertsen, Lawrenceville Arts Center complex general manager.

A Lasting Impact The economic benefits that developed over the course of the City’s 15-year partnership with Aurora Theatre were the driving force in the decision to expand fine arts in

Lawrenceville through the LAC. In 2014, Aurora Theatre generated $3,244,550 for the local economy, according to Explore Gwinnett’s economic impact study.

The investment has already begun to positively impact the local economy. Since opening, the LAC employs over 500 artists and employees, entertains hundreds of Gwinnett County school children daily—11,500 students in January alone—and attracts 40% of its audience from areas outside Gwinnett County.

The Lawrenceville Arts Center is a visual representation of Lawrenceville’s commitment to the arts. Our partnership with the Aurora Theatre and many years of hard work on the part of numerous determined individuals have delivered a one-of-akind facility.

David Still Mayor

Art for All

events

With inclusion at the heart of Aurora Theatre’s mission, its presence as the LAC’s complex manager and operator offers a new way to celebrate the region’s rich cultural fabric.

Aurora Theatre addresses social issues and amplifies underrepresented voices in its performances. LAC productions by both Aurora Theatre and outside companies like Southern Ballet Theatre and Central Gwinnett’s School of the Arts work to facilitate conversations of cultural heritage, social change and self-expression locally and nationally.

CITY OF LAWRENCEVILLE

summer Feature Friday DTL Happenings Prelude to the 4th

fall Block Party on the Square

By celebrating our shared humanity and embracing our differences, we can build a stronger, more inclusive society that nurtures the arts and values the contributions of every individual.

Aurora Theatre

The LAC also uplifts community partners and the work they do in the local arts community.

Central Gwinnett’s School of the Arts, Georgia Gwinnett College and Discovery High School are just a few of the center’s loyal partners and loving patrons.

Boo Fest Harvest Festival

winter Hometown Holiday Parade The LAC is a major stepping stone in Lawrenceville and Aurora Theatre’s shared mission to foster acceptance and spread performing arts appreciation far outside metro Atlanta. Until those goals are achieved, and long after, the LAC promises to continue pushing boundaries, sparking conversations, chasing creativity and inspiring the next generation of performers and creators.

can’t miss performances at the LAC

Summer Slam: Open Mic Night & Market July 29, 2023 This free night of fun celebrates the performers and small businesses of the local community from Gwinnett to metro Atlanta and beyond!

Behind the Red Door August 20, 2023

This LAC-featured event rental tells the story of a tumultuous love affair with a daunting secret. Don’t miss this exhilarating thriller of a production!

Christmas Canteen November 24, 2023

Aurora Theatre’s locally loved, Gwinnett County tradition brings undeniable holiday magic over all of Metro Atlanta.

STAY CONNECTED

DowntownLawrencevilleGa.com CITIES GUIDE 49

GEORGIA GWINNETT COLLEGE LAWRENCEVILLE, GA

An Inclusive Education

Georgia Gwinnett College is the first and only four-year institution in Gwinnett. Established in 2005, the school supports more than 11,000 students representing 112 countries and 29 states. However, 76% of its student population hails from Gwinnett County, making GGC education a building block of success in workplaces across the county and beyond.

Located in Georgia’s most diverse county, GGC caters to individuals of varying backgrounds, income levels and interests.

Many of them become first-generation college graduates. As an “access institution,” GGC gives all students a chance at success.

In addition to a high acceptance rate, GGC has affordable tuition rates, making college more accessible to students who might otherwise not attend. As a result, GGC has created opportunities for thousands of Gwinnett County students.

Building Up Tomorrow’s Leaders GGC meets all students where they are and provides the resources needed to ensure their success.

Dr. Jann L. Joseph President

GGC’s 21 bachelor’s degree programs were selected in collaboration with local business and community leaders, ensuring that the college supports regional economic development and employment needs while maximizing career opportunities for its students. GGC produces graduates who are prepared to be engaged citizens and tomorrow’s influential leaders.

While GGC offers a variety of degrees in business, humanities and the sciences, its nursing and education programs are particularly impactful addressing shortages of professionals in these disciplines.

The college also recently introduced five nexus degrees. These new, two-year degrees were developed by the University System of Georgia and target the state’s expanding entertainment industry, a key area of economic growth and opportunity.

The college has several outreach programs, some designed for K-12 students in partnership with the Gwinnett County Public School System. Plus, its Center for Emerging Business and Entrepreneurship caters to Gwinnett-based startups, meaning the positive effects are felt largely by the local economy. Since the center opened in 2017, GGC has helped around 3,300 entrepreneurs get businesses off the ground.

The Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center, located in downtown Lawrenceville, is an entrepreneur and small business support facility recently opened by Gwinnett County in close collaboration with Georgia Gwinnett

College. The center functions both as an education center and a business incubator, offering in-person and online services.

Expanding Local Reach With students from across the country migrating to Lawrenceville, GGC greatly impacts the local economy. According to the 2022 USG’s annual economic impact study, GGC generated around $513 million in the fiscal year 2021 and about $5.3 billion in total since the college first began participating in the study. It also brings close to 4,000 jobs to Lawrenceville and the surrounding area.

But GGC’s impact is more than numbers. The school leads community service initiatives and oversees a service learning program. Both of these have earned them a President’s Volunteer Service Award along with a multi-million dollar grant which will help them kick-start a new, studentled tutoring program.

Looking Ahead With so much accomplished in its first 18 years, GGC continues looking ahead and anticipates major changes in the coming years. As of December 2022, GGC began offering in-state tuition to five states bordering Georgia. This change is expected to bring an influx of ambitious entrepreneurs into metro Atlanta.

Student Demographics by Age Fall 2022 Enrollment Data

Under 18 years 18-22 years 23-34 years 35-44 years 45 years and over

2.86% 64.35% 28.09% 2.96% 1.74%

In April 2023, GGC broke ground on a new Convocation Center as a part of its Gateway Project, which will provide a campus-wide infrastructure update and a facility that will offer more opportunities to host community activities. Big things are coming to Georgia Gwinnett College, all of which promise to keep in tune with the school’s mission to drive student success while meeting the educational, economic and social needs of Gwinnett County.

Student Demographics by Race Fall 2022 Enrollment Data

Asian Black/African-American Hispanic/Latino (of any race) American Indian/Alaska Native Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander White Two or more races Unknown

12.23% 31.70% 27.29% 0.23% 0.19% 23.61% 3.92% 0.84% CITIES GUIDE 51

AD GOES HERE C H EC K O U T UP C O M ING C IT Y E V E NTS AT

cityoflilburn.com

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of lilburn

CITY OF

LILBURN The City of Lilburn is known among residents for its deep sense of community. Just 18 miles from downtown Atlanta, Lilburn offers great convenience for commuters, successful public and private schools, a thriving business community, easy access to major highways and business corridors and wonderful public parks and green spaces. Though it started as a railroad community in the late 1800s, Old Town Lilburn is now a bustling neighborhood complete with local restaurants, a library, shops and in the heart of it all, Lilburn City Park.

Recent accolades include:

One of Atlanta’s Best Places to Live, Newcomer Magazine No. 1 Most Diverse Place to Live in Georgia, Niche.com

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

15,168

1910

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

The charming Old Town District with City Park and Splash Pad

KEEP IN TOUCH

770-921-2210 CityOfLilburn.com OldTownLilburnGa.com CITIES GUIDE 53

EMBRACING NATURAL BEAUTY CITY OF LILBURN

With so many outdoor spaces, Lilburn’s scenic landscapes hold a permanent place in the lives of residents and the City’s 113-year-old history.

But Lilburn city parks are more than just pretty places. Because the City believes so strongly in their ability to unite current residents, attract visitors and potential residents and meet city-wide needs as event spaces, they have poured local resources into creating a variety of outdoor spaces from walking paths to play areas.

Lilburn City Park Lilburn City Park is the place where our diverse community comes together. On any given day you’ll see people of all cultures and backgrounds spending time together and enjoying our park.

Jill Minnoia

City of Lilburn Event Coordinator 54 CITIES GUIDE

At the center of connectivity in Lilburn lies Lilburn City Park. The park encompasses 13 acres of lush, green lawn and makes up a small piece of the 150 acres of green space found within the City’s 6.8 square miles. It has become a hub of community and the site of most local events as it is located in the heart of Old Town Lilburn.

Historically, residents are known to gather around the bandshell for high-energy concerts, cool off under shady pavilions, host cookouts or get morning runs in on the Camp Creek Greenway Trail. Plus, the park recently

gained exciting new additions catering to even more residents. In 2019, a playground renovation introduced brand-new equipment, a softer playing surface and wheelchair ramps, creating a safer, more accessible and fun environment for kids. More recently, in 2021, a splash pad built in response to resident requests sparked excitement for kids all over the City, bringing fountains, water buckets and lights.

Camp Creek Greenway The 4.2-mile Camp Creek greenway multi-use trail has trailheads at Lilburn City Park and Lions Club Park. The path runs through miles of green foliage, atop waterways and past an abundance of wildlife habitats.

Since not all cities have the luxury of a greenway, the Camp Creek Greenway draws crowds from outside city limits, bringing in visitors and introducing them to the rest of Old Town.

Athletic Complexes On weeknights, Lilburn kids and their families tend to congregate at one of Lilburn’s two athletic complexes: Bryson Park or Lions Club Park, both managed by Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation. Between the two, the City has fields for football, baseball, soccer and other purposes, a sand volleyball court and outdoor basketball courts. With practices, tournaments and events, most local students

and parents spend a majority of their time here outside of school and work. With so many uses, these complexes have become assets to every school in Lilburn, making them one of the biggest catalysts uniting the community.

A Place to Gather Perhaps the biggest benefit to having so many parks at the City’s fingertips is that they double as venues for community events, and events are one of Lilburn’s proudest assets.

Along with the Sparkle in the Park (which features the self-proclaimed ‘best firework show in Gwinnett’), the City hosts over 20 other community events throughout the year, so there’s always a reason to gather.

From Food Truck Tuesdays all summer long to trick-or-treating down Main to 5Ks and bike races which bring crowds from all over the region, the City takes full advantage of the economic and communal sparks often ignited by these events.

Looking Forward The Mayor and City Council are committed to preserving and maintaining Lilburn’s parks over the years. With over 22 vacant acres right next door to Lilburn City Park, there is a grand park expansion plan in the works promising new greenway trails, more amenities and many more acres of play space, adding more “play” to the “live, work, play” standard in Lilburn.

events CITY OF LILBURN

spring Lilburchaun Parade Great American Cleanup Food Truck Tuesdays Community Yard Sale Splash Bash with DJ Matt

summer Rock The Park Concert Food Truck Tuesdays Sparkle in the Park National Night Out

fall Food Truck Tuesdays at City Park Lilburn Daze Monsters and Movie on Main

winter Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting

STAY CONNECTED CityofLilburn.com

City of Lilburn @cityoflilburn @oldtownlilburn

CITIES GUIDE 55

Georgia Gwinnett College is your access to success. With 21 bachelor’s degree programs, dozens of areas of study, small class sizes and affordable tuition, GGC is the smart choice for higher education in Gwinnett. Schedule your campus tour today!

www.ggc.edu

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of loganville

CITY OF

LOGANVILLE The City of Loganville proudly serves as the gateway between the hustle and bustle of Gwinnett County and the relaxed and rural nature of Walton County. The City was named after James H. Logan, a prominent businessman who, in 1851, purchased 63 acres of land and moved his family to what was a growing community at the time.

Loganville is home to over 900 businesses. With three state highways traversing the City, its small-town atmosphere and proximity to Atlanta and Athens create an ideal locale to live, work and play. Loganville maintains its reputation as a lovely, small-town destination thanks to incredible public safety measures. The tireless efforts of law enforcement and overwhelming support from citizens have resulted in Loganville’s constant recognition as one of the safest cities in Georgia.

Recent accolades include:

Ranked among the “Top 50 Safest Cities in Georgia”, Safewise No. 14 in top 100 most popular small cities in America to relocate to, MoveBuddha.com Loganville High School recognized by the state as an AP Honor School Loganville High School baseball team has won six state championships

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

14,720

1887

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

MLB players Brandon Moss & Clint Frazier

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-466-1165 Loganville-Ga.gov

CITIES GUIDE 57

Chief of Loganville Police, Dick Lowry, along with the rest of the Loganville police force, are local superheroes when it comes to protecting citizens.

MEET CHIEF DICK LOWRY CITY OF LOGANVILLE

Q: What public safety measures has Loganville instilled in residents that set it apart from other cities?

A: “Something we take great pride in is

maintaining an emergency response time of four minutes. Generally speaking, if someone needs the police, they need us right now, and we put considerable effort into making sure our response times are where we want them to be. We also provide Safe Exchange Zones, both at the police station and at City Hall for our citizens - or anyone else for that matter to use when making online deals and meeting folks they don’t know.”

58 CITIES GUIDE

Q: What public safety measures has Loganville instilled in its law enforcement branch that set it apart from other cities?

A: “Our ability to hire and retain officers at

an above-average level at a time when police forces struggle to fill vacant positions is one of our greatest strengths. I think that can be attributed to the work environment that we provide our officers and the tremendous support they receive from citizens, businesses and council. By keeping our staff consistent, we are able to provide the coverage our citizens want while still performing proactive

patrols that prevent criminal activity in our City. We have also been successful in enrolling the vast majority of our subdivisions in our Neighborhood Watch Program.”

Q: Loganville hosts an annual Public Safety Day celebration which is unique to your City. What is the purpose of this event and how have residents responded?

A: “This annual event is hosted every

September at our Town Green and has grown tremendously in attendance since its inception. The event includes our police and fire departments and other local law

enforcement agencies. It gives our citizens an opportunity to explore public safety equipment and resources, share their experiences with us and provide feedback on areas where we are doing well and, at times, areas that we need to dedicate effort to improving.”

Q: How does Loganville keep its residents informed on the safety status of the City (crime rates, recent crime, safety tips, etc.)?

A: “We are making more use of social media

platforms than ever before as we have found it is often the quickest way to get information to our citizens. We also utilize the Neighbors Public Safety Network that not only allows us to monitor postings from our citizens, but also provides a way for citizens to share videos from their Ring cameras directly to our officers and detectives. However, we would urge anyone attempting to report an incident or suspicious behavior immediately to use 911, as our social media pages are not monitored 24/7.”

events CITY OF LOGANVILLE

Q: How has Loganville’s public safety attributed to economic or community growth?

A: “I believe our reputation and commitment

to our citizens’ safety, combined with efforts to deal with traffic issues proactively, is a massive economic draw in the same way that our schools and their superior performance attract potential new residents.”

Q: How has public safety in Loganville improved over time?

A: “The department has grown in terms of

personnel and programs, and we have made great strides to leverage new and innovative technologies that allow us to better track and investigate crime. We are blessed to have a staff of extremely dedicated officers who make great efforts to ensure our citizens feel safe in their homes, businesses and on our roadways. It is our goal to make Loganville the safest city in Georgia which I believe is more than attainable for our driven police force.”

spring Masters Car Show Community Carnival Groovin’ on the Green Wing Fling Town Green

summer Groovin’ on the Green Independence Celebration Battle of the Bands

fall Groovin’ on the Green Back the Blue Car Show Autumn Fest

winter

3 tips from the chief

Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

TO HELP MAKE YOUR CITY SAFER

Lock your vehicles!

Remove all valuables before leaving your car.

Consider installing a home alarm system or doorbell cameras.

STAY CONNECTED LoganvilleEvents.com

CITIES GUIDE 59

A PLACE TO

EXPLORE. SAVOR. IMAGINE.

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC! @cityofnorcrossga

aplacetoimagine.com

@cityofnorcross

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of norcross

CITY OF

NORCROSS As the second oldest city in Gwinnett, Norcross serves as an economic powerhouse in the region and across the globe. Because it attracts so many domestic and international companies, workers and residents, the City’s primary focus is to create an environment that welcomes entrepreneurs, fosters business collaboration and promotes economic longevity. Unfortunately, the environmental state of our region, country and world today is a threat to that longevity. Now more than ever, Norcross aims to achieve resiliency through sustainability practices and protocols.

Recent accolades include:

2x Platinum Level Green Community, Atlanta Regional Commission Best Green Government, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful Tree City USA, The Arbor Day Foundation Bee City USA, Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation Purple Heart City, Military Order of the Purple Heart CALEA Internationally Accredited Police Department Visionary City Award, Georgia Municipal Association

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

17,642

1870

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Being one of the first PlatinumCertified Green Communities in the region.

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-448-2122 NorcrossGa.net

CITIES GUIDE 61

CITY OF NORCROSS

SETTING A STANDARD OF SUSTAINABILITY The City of Norcross recognizes that sustainability is necessary to provide a viable future for residents, businesses, and of course, the environment. They embrace the efforts that must be advanced now in order to maintain the beauty, resources and efficiency needed to drive the cities of tomorrow.

“Following sustainable practices in our city helps Norcross keep our promise of being ‘A Place to Imagine’.” - Jalia Killings, Sustainability Planner Norcross’ status as a Platinum Certified Green Community is evidence of the tireless efforts the mayor, city council and staff have put forth to protect the environment. It is also thanks to the efforts of the Sustainable Norcross Commission, whose mission is to promote and institute eco-friendly initiatives, submit proposals to the mayor and council and assist with Green Community renewals.

It’s through the power of sustainable groups, initiatives and events that Norcross has set a standard of success for other cities striving to go green.

62 CITIES GUIDE

Pollinator Friendly Norcross has earned many accreditations for its eco efforts, including a Bee City USA certification for working to preserve pollinators and their habitats. These efforts then drove them to their most recent award: The Visionary City Award, gifted by the Georgia Municipal Association, which Norcross earned for its community education efforts and recent completion of a City Hall Pollinator Garden.

The garden is a haven of flora and fauna, attracting colonies of bees, butterflies and other insects to make it a home. Residents are invited to visit anytime or attend pollinator workshops to learn about the tiny creatures that frequent the garden.

Norcross is better equipped to support pollinators and to inspire the expansion of sustainable landscaping that reduces our reliance on pesticides and finite resources and promotes numerous environmental benefits. By transforming underutilized spaces into thriving natural ecosystems, we create a healthy and sustainable community for the present and future generations.

Craig Newton

Mayor

Speak for the Trees

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.

Norcross has also been recognized as a Certified Tree City by the Arbor Day Foundation for 18 years for their advocacy for trees and green spaces. The City instills a “no net loss of trees” policy which requires a developing site to maintain tree canopy coverage or compensate by paying the city for the number of trees that cannot be replaced to allow the city to plant trees elsewhere. Currently, 38% of Norcross is covered by tree canopies while 99% of residents live within one half-mile of parks or green space.

Eliminating waste, especially on a city-wide scale, is easier said than done. The best advice Jalia Killings, Norcross’s Sustainability Planner, can give when it comes to waste is to try and find an alternative purpose for something before discarding it. “Waste isn’t waste until you waste it,” explains Jalia.

Locally Grown Gardening sustainably isn’t just beneficial for pollinators, but for our health as well. Green gardening means reducing pesticide use and incorporating compost in your garden. For these reasons, residents are encouraged to put their green thumbs to use at home. And if there isn’t a viable spot in their yards, the City’s got a solution: Discovery Garden Park.

This local green space offers community garden plots to be rented yearly for a small fee.

Norcross’ Farm Fresh Days also makes locally grown produce more accessible by hosting an open-air farmers and artisans market throughout the year.

However, waste is inevitable. So Norcross implemented disposal measures to curb the potential for trash to end up in recycling. In 2022, their “Feet on the Street” initiative conducted a recycling bin audit which reduced contamination in local recycling streams by 31%.

In addition to free curbside recycling, yard waste pickup and glass recycling, the City hosts a bi-annual Recycling and Clean-Up Day. Plus, June promises the City’s first ever Household Hazardous Waste Collection event where residents can safely dispose of paints, lawn care products, batteries, light bulbs and more.

events CITY OF NORCROSS

spring Irish Fest Eggs-tra Special Easter Egg Hunt

summer Summer Concert Series Jazz in the Alley Red, White & BOOM! Bluesberry Beer & Music Festival Juneteenth Celebration

Pedal Norcross

fall

Norcross encourages residents to use alternative transportation methods which reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

Perhaps the biggest way they promote this is through Pedal Norcross, a 2.5-mile annual bike ride that promotes biking as an economical form of transportation and educates riders on safety measures.

Atlanta British Car Fayre

SO, HOW CAN GWINNETT COUNTY RESIDENTS

live sustainably?

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle properly! Avoid placing plastic bags or other nonrecyclable materials in your curbside bin.

Plant a tree when the weather is right, or plant pollinator-friendly plants.

Limit pesticide use when gardening.

Shop local to support farmers and small businesses.

Art Splash Festival Hispanic Heritage Celebration Deutsche Klassic German Car Show

winter Dia de los Muertos First Friday Concerts Holidays in Norcross Valentine’s Night to Remember

STAY CONNECTED APlaceToImagine.com

City of Norcross - Government @cityofnorcross

CITIES GUIDE 63

Summer Concerts Flicks on the Green Restaurants Path to Fitness Chattahoochee River Bark in the Park Holiday Glow

#iamptc

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of peachtree corners

CITY OF

PEACHTREE CORNERS Just a century ago, the land that makes up Gwinnett’s newest and largest city was a farming settlement on a dusty stagecoach stop to Atlanta. Today the area once known as Pinckneyville is a breeding ground for ideas, invention and re-imagination.

Incorporated in July 2012, Peachtree Corners has cultivated a thriving business community envied by the tech industry. Paul Duke was the mind behind Technology Park, the catalyst that led to the City’s nationally recognized status as America’s leading smart city.

The City established a character of endless fun in just over ten years. Town Center, the community’s central gathering place and preferred outdoor concert venue, The Forum, Peachtree Corners’ newest shopping center, an expansive multi-use trail system and a forward-thinking mindset makes Peachtree Corners the remarkable and innovative city it is today.

Recent accolades include:

Jury Award, IEEE Smart Cities Smart Cities Connect Mobility: 5G Test Track, Smart 50 Awards Public Private Partnerships Gold Award, International Economic Development Council Defining The Blueprint for Smart Cities in the US, Smart 50 Awards Economic Development Winner, IDC North America Government Insights’ Smart Cities North America Awards

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

43,509

2012

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Scenic river views, outdoor concerts, landmark pedestrian bridge

KEEP IN TOUCH

678-691-1200 PeachtreeCornersGa.gov CITIES GUIDE 65

CITY OF PEACHTREE CORNERS

CURIOSITY LAB The Blueprint for Smart Cities Worldwide

Once a vision of hovercrafts and floating cities, the future is now here, and Peachtree Corners is at the forefront. Curiosity Lab, the City’s smart city ecosystem, was founded in 2019 to help. In four years, Curiosity Lab has facilitated the development of products and ideas to propel our cities into a future of environmental conservation, diligent public safety and unprecedented efficiency.

weren’t obvious in the controlled testing environment. Curiosity Lab acts as the middle ground, where companies who want to test their technology in a real-world environment before full-scale deployment can continue to develop their technology while exposing it to real-world factors before a full-scale launch,” explains Kelsey Neely, Curiosity Lab’s PR and Strategy Specialist.

The feature that gives Curiosity Lab its cutting edge is its ability to offer any business, from startups to worldwide conglomerates, a free, real-world testing environment. Any company with an idea and willpower can create, test, invent and reinvent their products in the City to prime them for the real world before launching.

The City has forged partnerships with dozens of organizations and adopted countless innovations now used daily. Companies from T-Mobile and UPS to startups like SkyMul and Beep have all become partners, permitting the City to use their technology and making an even broader tech landscape available to future innovators.

“A lot of times, when innovators first test technology, it’s done in a closed environment with controlled variables. Once it’s introduced to the real world, they may find gaps that

So, what exactly sets a “smart city” apart from the rest? It uses technology to make key economic sectors of the City, like transportation and healthcare, more efficient.

66 CITIES GUIDE

Transportation With its “City Street of the Future,” Peachtree Corners stormed the transportation scene.

The three-mile roadway surrounding Technology Park connects residents and vehicles using 5G connectivity, courtesy of T-Mobile. Bosch cameras and LiDAR sensors use 5G to transmit traffic data to the City’s IoT Control Center, allowing Peachtree Corners to constantly monitor traffic patterns and improve traffic flow.

Additionally, the City operates autonomous shuttles with startup company Beep on their autonomous vehicle test track. Using various technologies, the shuttles learn from their surroundings each day. The City has worked with Beep and a number of other partners to demonstrate how various C-V2X technologies can be used with the autonomous shuttles to improve roadway safety and efficiency.

Manufacturing Many drone-centric startups are underway at the lab, promising an alternate future run almost entirely by drones. SkyMul, a startup housed in Curiosity Lab, works to create drones that autonomously tie rebar and will help to mitigate one of the most dangerous parts of the construction process.

Curiosity Lab has also housed the start-up company Sanguina. Sanguina is committed to empowering people to act on their health, through the creation of accessible science and technology. The company helps individuals achieve optimal wellness with personalized blood health diagnostic and screening tools, including AnemoCheck, the first-ever mobile app designed for instant, non-invasive hemoglobin level estimation to help those affected by anemia.

Environmentalism

summer Flicks on the Green

Healthcare Curiosity Lab, through its partnership with T-Mobile, features technology in the T-Mobile Executive Briefing Center that taps into the needs of the healthcare industry. One of T-Mobile’s 5G solutions enables emergency responders to asses a patient while they are on the way to the hospital, decreasing emergency response time.

events CITY OF PEACHTREE CORNERS

These innovations, among others like robot delivery systems, self-driving scooters and more, make up just a few of the creations Peachtree Corners facilitates at Curiosity Lab. But it wouldn’t be possible without the culture of open-mindedness and the City’s “ yes” people in its corner.

This attitude of determination and willingness to bend over backward to make things happen for all businesses, big or small, has earned Peachtree Corners a spot in smart city history.

Night Music Sports on the Screen Summer Concert Series Peachtree Corners Festival Bark in the Park Light up the Corners Run

fall Flicks on the Green Night Music Sports on the Screen PTC Decathlon

winter Sports on the Screen Veterans Day Ceremony Holiday Glow

Committed to keeping the City and the world a green place, Curiosity Lab also fosters green space and works to reduce the human footprint. City partner, Trellis, has designed soil sensors offering farmers and agriculturalists a deeper understanding of the soil they work with to alter farming practices and maximize yields.

Other companies like Urban Canopee, a French startup, are geared towards generating green space. Urban Canopee aims to cool down urban areas like Atlanta, where vegetation growth is nearly impossible, by implementing greenery with an irrigation system that helps clean air and provide shade.

STAY CONNECTED

PeachtreeCornersGa.gov.

City of Peachtree Corners, Georgia @peachtreecornersga

CITIES GUIDE 67

Celebrating our past while looking toward the future.

In 100 years Snellville has gone from a simple intersection at highways 124 and 78 served by a store founded by one of its founders to the home of the second-busiest commercial corridor in the county. And now The Grove at Towne Center is nearing completion – a $100 million mixed-use project featuring luxury apartments, the new Elizabeth Williams Gwinnett County Library, and restaurants and entertainment options set for completion by the end of the year.

Centennial events will take place all year with a big celebration in August on the Towne Green.

www.snellville.org

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of snellville

CITY OF

SNELLVILLE Snellville began as a place of commerce. The City’s co-founders ran the Snell and Sawyer Store more than 100 years ago at what used to be the crossing of two horse trails that are now the intersection of highways 78 and 124. Its proximity to the two major highways makes it a desirable destination to call home. Today, that history continues as Snellville anticipates celebrating 100 years as a city this August.

A great revitalization effort will mark Snellville’s centennial as the City inches closer to the completion of a brand-new residential and commercial project in the heart of Snellville. The Grove at Towne Center promises to bring new life to the City with unique restaurants and diverse housing options.

Recent accolades include:

Governor’s Cup winner, Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Law Enforcement Award: Cpl. DeVries, Veterans of Foreign Wars Law Enforcement Public Servant of the Year for the state of Georgia: Cpl. DeVries, Veterans of Foreign Wars Tree City USA, Arbor Day Foundation Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, Government Finance Officers Association

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

21,272

1923

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Snellville is proud to be celebrating its 100th year as a city! On August 23, 1923, Snellville was incorporated.

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-985-3500 Snellville.org

CITIES GUIDE 69

C I T Y O F S N E L LV I L L E :

REVITALIZING A COMMUNITY The Grove, a mixed-use development that promises to renew Snellville’s entrepreneurial spirit, is set for completion this winter, just after the City celebrates its 100th anniversary.

When completed, The Grove will transform Snellville’s Towne Center into a hub of commerce and collaboration.

The series of developments underway at The Grove will impact the City’s residential, leisure, business and environmental sectors.

As progress on the first few pieces of the complex, including apartments, a parking deck and a community library, comes to fruition, they offer a snapshot of the project’s scope and future opportunities.

Along with the amenities mentioned earlier, The Grove will also boast a green gathering space complete with a pavilion, splash pad and mosaic wall, two restaurants, two mixed-use buildings (half commercial, half residential) and a market hall, which pulls inspiration from Atlanta’s iconic Ponce City Market.

We don’t have the traditional downtown that other cities have, so The Grove will give us all a central meeting place and help Snellville establish a new sense of community.

Matt Pepper

Assistant City Manager 70 CITIES GUIDE

The positioning of The Grove was strategic, not just for its central location but because of its historical significance as well. The name “The Grove” comes from the notable grove of trees that flourished on the property before the City purchased it. This tree grove was the site of numerous family reunions during the City’s founding days. Today, the City of Snellville holds on to cherished photos of the reunions as a reminder of the site’s intended purpose.

This project is a major piece in our goal to create great places to live, play, work, learn and shop in Snellville.

The Grove at Towne Center’s design and its connections to existing parks via greenways and neighborhoods will be a wonderful place where community and commerce meet.

Barbara Bender

The Grove promises to preserve its history by bringing hundreds of locals together daily in a thriving business community unlike anything the City has ever had. Snellville’s goal is for any businesses that take root at The Grove to be locally owned. Perhaps the most prominent way it aims to bring small business owners into the new environment is by moving the Snellville Farmers Market from its current location at City Hall to The Grove, bringing local vendors from across Gwinnett County.

Meanwhile, the City’s biggest partner in the development, MidCast, is focused on the advancements The Grove could bring to Snellville’s private sector. Along with 250 new apartments and 25 new townhomes, MidCast has partnered with Thrive Coworking, a collaborative work environment with plans to set up a coworking space in the new library.

With most of Snellville’s current resident base being single families living in detached housing, adding apartments, townhomes and modern workspaces is expected to bring an entirely new demographic to the area.

With so many young professionals and entrepreneurs searching for collaborative spaces, walkability and low-cost housing, The Grove will open the door to a long future of growth, ideation and camaraderie in Snellville.

events C I T Y O F S N E L LV I L L E

summer Food Truck Fridays Farmers Market Star Spangled Snellville Live on the Lawn Concerts Snellville Centennial Celebration

fall Food Truck Fridays Live on the Lawn Concert Taste of Snellville Fall Festival

winter Veterans Celebration Christmas Tree Lighting Lighted Christmas Parade

Mayor

With close to 50,000 people living in a five to ten-mile radius of the new development, The Grove will impact current Snellville residents in a big way. The City has done its part in educating residents on what this means for Snellville and gaging interest, which has been overwhelmingly positive so far.

“We have seen a ripple effect of interest from folks in and around Snellville. Projects like The Grove show people that the mayor and council are interested and willing to create change that will benefit them,” explains Brian Arrington, Snellville’s Public Information Officer.

STAY CONNECTED ExperienceSnellville.com

Snellville Tourism and Trade @cityofsnellville

CITIES GUIDE 71

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of sugar hill

CITY OF

SUGAR HILL Once referred to as “the hill where the sugar spilled,” Sugar Hill has become so much more than that. After years as a mere stop along the railway from Buford to Cumming, Sugar Hill has transformed into a booming town center that caters to both businesses and residents. With all of the essentials in one spot, locals can enjoy life at a modest pace. Strolling along the Promenade downtown, getting movement in at the greenway, rocking out to concerts at The Bowl and checking out Players Guild shows at Eagle Theatre are just a few ways to soak up the sweetness of this 84-year-old city.

Meanwhile, businesses thrive off of a central location, startup aides like the Suite Spot Business Incubator, public event space and more. Now, with the addition of the E Center, the City’s first mixed-use development, commerce and leisure have a common ground in downtown Sugar Hill.

Recent accolades include:

Visionary City Award, Georgia Municipal Association Best Concert Venue in Gwinnett County: The Bowl, Gwinnett Magazine Best Concert Venue in Gwinnett County: Eagle Theatre, Gwinnett Magazine

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

25,759

1939

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

The E Center, a mixed-used project with restaurants, businesses & theatre.

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-945-6716 CityofSugarHill.com

CITIES GUIDE 73

CITY OF SUGAR HILL:

A TOUR OF THE SUGAR HILL

E CENTER

Fitness Center

Shopping & Dining

Office Space

The fitness areas of the E Center draw the biggest crowds thanks to virtually nonexistent membership fees. Downstairs, high tops squeak across the gleaming wooden floors of the basketball court. Whether it’s locals getting in a quick round of 1 v 1, a school practice or a crowd of sideline supporters cheering on an intramural team, the court is always a site of entertainment and excitement. An indoor track lies just overhead, offering a perfect vantage point for parents grabbing a cardio session while the kids practice.

Naturally, the E Center attracts gym goers looking to recharge post-workout, and the attached eateries are perfect places to fuel up. When curating these local spots, which are now part of the fabric of downtown Sugar Hill, the City factored in both convenience and personality.

The E Center doesn’t just house local businesses. The top floor is a cluster of office spaces occupied by organizations from tech to hospitality to dental and more. With space for businesses of all shapes, sizes and industries, this collaborative environment drives networking, sparks ideas and generates growth.

Upstairs are two different workout zones with dumbbells, cardio machines, free weights and TRX equipment. They don’t tend to get as busy as the court downstairs, so it’s a surefire option for those looking to avoid gym crowds and get a quick, effective workout in.

74 CITIES GUIDE

THE FACES OF THE

e center Event Rentals It’s easy for E Center businesses and other local organizations to host events with indoor and outdoor rentals available through the E Center. The Waterfall room provides a stunning banquet or meeting space complete with two projectors, high ceilings, massive windows and a balcony which spills out onto the promenade as an optional add-on. Other city event spaces include two rooms at 39th Street Station, parks, athletic complexes and classrooms.

The Promenade This communal strip is tucked away from the West Broad Street traffic. It’s a picturesque stroll past Sugar Hill classics like The Bowl, Eagle Theatre and many local businesses with waterfront views. On nice nights, the promenade collects groups of sunset watchers and diners, and it’s only expected to draw bigger crowds thanks to its newest addition, a bar and lounge on the roof of the E Center.

events CITY OF SUGAR HILL

spring Rivermill Bakery

Spring Break Bash at the Eagle Theatre Music at Sugar Hill

summer Splash Night with Movies Under the Stars

Perazim

Yoga in the Bowl Sugar Hill Live On Stage Music at Sugar Hill

fall Sugar Rush Arts Festival

Shine Pizza

Music at Sugar Hill

winter Holiday Celebration

By being intentional about the E Center’s purpose, Sugar Hill created a resilient community resource that survived the tumultuous pandemic along with each and every business within it.

Now, the center serves 50% of the Sugar Hill population with 18,714 members in total.

It’s no doubt the E Center’s influence has generated a booming downtown economy, making way for an influx of residences and businesses looking to enter the scene before it explodes. Today, Sugar Hill is a hub of commerce and entertainment, tomorrow it promises to become a driving economic force in Gwinnett County.

Winter Break Bash at the Eagle Theatre

Central City Tavern

Indio Brewing

STAY CONNECTED DowntownSugarHill.com

Rushing Trading Co.

City of Sugar Hill, Georgia @cityofsugarhill

CITIES GUIDE 75

ENVIRONMENTALLY MINDED,

COMMUNITY FOCUSED.

Connecting People & Resources for a Sustainable Gwinnett Since 1980 From fostering a new generation of environmental stewards to hosting a series of eco-friendly programs and events, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful has spent the last four decades serving as a catalyst to a hyper-local, Mother Earth-centric movement. When we all pitch in and take greater responsibility to improve our water, land, air and lives, our environment, community, families and industries THRIVE!

CLEAN U EVENT P S

EN VIR AD ONM VO EN CA TAL CY

ITY UN N MM TIO CO UCA ED

AD OP AD T-A-R STR OPT- OAD EA A- / M

ING CL TS Y C RE VEN E

R VOLUNTEE N ACTIO

GREEN HEALTH & SCHOO Y PROGR LS AM

HIPS NERS PART

LEARN HOW YOU CAN JOIN THE MOVEMENT: 770.822.5187 GwinnettCB.org

gwinnett chamber’s cities guide // city of suwanee

CITY OF

SUWANEE Award-winning Suwanee is a friendly, progressive community committed to providing a high-quality environment for its residents. Home to 600 acres of parks, a lively and robust collection of public art masterpieces and a vibrant Town Center, the City of Suwanee has consistently been named one of the nation’s best places to live.

Suwanee has worked hard to develop a city with an inviting and beautiful atmosphere. Aesthetics are woven into the City’s fabric—and immortalized in the many willful initiatives implemented in the last 15 years. Suwanee Town Center is the physical and symbolic heart of the community. A bustling city center anchored by a 10-acre urban park, Town Center is an innovative response to citizen-driven planning efforts: to preserve open space and create a new community focal point, one that, over the years, has become dotted with murals, sculptures and pieces of history.

Recent accolades include:

No. 1 Beer Festival in the Country: Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest, USA Today Best Cities to Live in the South #32, 24/7 Wall Street Georgia Downtown Excellence Award: Glow in the Park with the Atlanta International Night Market, Creative New Event Best U.S. Suburbs for City-Like Living #6, STORAGECafe Large Redevelopment of the Year: Solis I and II, Partnership Gwinnett and Council for Quality Growth Safest Cities in Georgia #13, Safewise

OUR PEEPS

BEEN HERE SINCE

20,000

1838

Population:

First Incorporated:

FAMOUS FOR

Its commitment to public art

KEEP IN TOUCH 770-945-8996 Suwanee.com

CITIES GUIDE 77

The Birth of Suwanee’s Public Art Collection Suwanee’s colorful, engaging Town Center can only be attributed to the City’s greater mission of utilizing public art to enhance resident life and establish a unique sense of place. It can be said that the impressive collection of public art the City has curated today does all of this and more, but that wasn’t always the plan.

In 2007, it occurred to Nick Masino, former mayor of Suwanee, that “all great cities have great art.” This statement spurred the City’s revolutionary public art movement that’s still built upon today. While public art hadn’t been widely recognized by the state or even much of the Southeast at the time, Suwanee saw endless potential for art to be accessible, educational fun and a future centerpiece of the community.

The City first formed an ad-hoc committee to create a place for art in city developments.

The committee asked developers to commit 1% of construction costs to public art, whether including art in the development or donating to the City’s public art fund. The initiative was cemented in 2009, allowing Suwanee to create and purchase all the art and art programming they own today using only fundraising dollars.

CITY OF SUWANEE:

A CITY OF COLOR,

CULTURE AND CREATIVITY 78 CITIES GUIDE

SculpTour, which Suwanee is known for today, was another project entirely. It started in 2011, pulling inspiration from Columbus, Georgia’s Art On Loan program. The concept of SculpTour is simple: an endless, rotating art exhibit. The public art installations that make up the tour are swapped for new art every two years, allowing the City to reinvent its downtown atmosphere and keep supporting small artists.

Suwanee’s first Public Art Master Plan was unveiled in 2015, bringing with it three tenets pertinent to the City’s overarching mission.

Art should be temporary, interactive and boost city image in some way. Every piece sourced by the City follows at least two of the three tenets.

Creating an Artful Identity Each city in Gwinnett County has its own, unique niche. Suwanee’s is art.

Before SculpTour, Suwanee’s greatest asset was its picturesque parks, which happen to make perfect backdrops for works of art. By fusing these two strengths, Suwanee created its artful identity, which is ever-present today.

“When it comes to a city’s needs, public art is at the very top of Peter Kageyama’s city hierarchy from his book, ‘For the Love of Cities.’ It’s not a necessity, but it adds the ‘interesting’ element that draws people in and makes them want to know more about a city,” explains Denise Brinson, Suwanee’s Assistant City Manager.

Suwanee has certainly succeeded in its goal of piquing interest. It has reached art admirers across the country and other

The best thing about public art is that it’s non-discriminatory.

There is no limit to who can participate and find value in a work of art.

Denise Brinson

Assistant City Manager

parts of the world through engaging and exploratory art. And with a greater awareness of Suwanee comes a greater awareness of its businesses, amenities and hotels, generating a well-rounded supply of income for the entire community.

This mentality has fueled Suwanee’s newest arts initiative, the Art for All Capital Campaign.

The campaign seeks to raise $1.25 million in private contributions which will support three new public art pieces as a part of the City’s highly anticipated Town Center Expansion.

The inclusion of public art city-wide is paramount because of the wonders it has done for Suwanee’s internal sense of community. Works of art on display across the City don’t just bring value in appearance.

Each sculpture, painting or monument is representative of its maker, many of which reside right here in Georgia, and what better place to hold the stories, memories and cultures of a community than the very center of it.

CITIES GUIDE 79

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A Glimpse into Suwanee’s

PERMANENT COLLECTION Over the years, Suwanee has accumulated a permanent collection of 25 works of art housed in various parks, buildings and public spaces around the City. Some of Suwanee’s most widely admired permanent pieces are these six:

1. Time to Blossom Those visiting Town Center Park from Buford Highway can take in the scenery of this 180-foot-long mural blossoming with color.

2. Berlin Wall This great piece of history symbolizes the peaceful revolution that led to its fall on November 9, 1989. It now has a permanent home in Town Center Park.

3. Remembrance This homage to the fateful events of September 11, 2001, transforms history into impactful artwork. Gifted by The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, this relic is accompanied by a 9-11 timeline and a sculpture displaying the lower Manhattan cityscape.

4. The Herd A collective fan favorite of the City, these bronze goats serve as a reminder to look up and admire your surroundings. Find them in the Buford Highway cemetery.

CITIES GUIDE 81

events CITY OF SUWANEE

spring Suwanee Arts Festival Suwanee Beer Fest Glow in the Park

5. Mr. Eggwards

6. Transformation

Another welcome addition to many residents’ family photos, selfies and more, Mr. Eggwards resides in the center of Town Center Park, usually adorned with seasonal props.

This vibrant mural douses the side of the Suwanee Courthouse in a coat of color and fun.

International Night Market

summer Summer Porch Jam Broadway in the Park August Concert & Wing Fest

fall Suwanee Fest Suwanee Wine Fest

winter Jolly Holly Day Suwanee Half Marathon

The Ultimate Participation Trophy Suwanee unveiled its newest temporary piece at this year’s Suwanee Arts Festival. The Ultimate Participation Trophy, created by Phil Proctor and funded by the Gwinnett County Creativity Fund, brings new life to residents across Gwinnett County’s old trophies. It is both temporary and interactive, fitting perfectly into the Public Art Master Plan.

82 CITIES GUIDE

STAY CONNECTED Suwanee.com

City of Suwanee, Georgia @cityofsuwanee

Welcome to Duluth, Georgia A place like nowhere else—where you can enjoy dining delights from around the world, public art, multiple entertainment and shopping options, active and passive parks and more! In Duluth, you are sure to have an awesome experience, day or night.

All that’s missing is YOU! www.duluthga.net

6500 Sugarloaf Parkway Duluth, GA, 30097 ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED

2023

JUNE

MAY

2 Food Truck Friday • 5:30 pm 10 Movies Under the Stars • 7 pm 16 Summer Porch Jam (Old Town) • 6 pm 24 Make Rare Visible Glow in the Dark Concert • 6 pm

ART ON A LIMB ALL MON TH

ER

•

•

S ATU RD

N OO N

5 Max’s Moon Run 5K & Concert • 6:30 pm 6 Tacos & Tequila 5K & Concert • 11 am 7 Atlanta British Motorcar Day • 10 am 13 Go Gray for a Cure 5K • 9 am 13 Relay 4 Life Gwinnett • 6 pm S • 8 AMAY 19 AAPI Heritage Month Celebration • noon 20 Great Strides Atlanta • 9 am S FA R M E R 21 Threaded from Heaven: T MARKE Fashion to Runway Show • 2 pm M 26 Red, White, Bluegrass, & Bach • 7 pm B

AUGUST

4 Food Truck Friday • 5:30 pm 5 Button Down Dash 5K • 7:45 am 12 19th Annual August Concert • 5 pm 26 Annandale Village Extra Mile 5K • 7:30 am 26 African American Cultural Arts Festival • 2 pm

NOVEMBER

SCAN FOR DETAILS!

7 Food Truck Friday • 5:30 pm 15 Movies Under the Stars • 7 pm 28 Broadway in the Park • 6 pm 29 Broadway in the Park • 6 pm

AY -S E PTE M

SEPTEMBER 16 Suwanee Fest • 9 am 17 Suwanee Fest • noon 23 Care for Cops 5K • 8 am

DECEMBER 1 2 9

Jolly Holly Day • 6:30 pm HappyFeat Run, Run Rudolph 5K • 9 am Ugly Sweater 5K by Camp Gladiator • 11 am

OCTOBER

7 Taste of BBQ & Music Fest • 10 am 10 Petit le Mans Kickoff Party • 5 pm 14 Spooky Spirits 5K • 11 am 20 Aurora Theatre presents: Al Son de la Musica – Celebrating Hispanic Culture • 11 am 27 SAC Dam Dinner (Sims Lake) • 7 pm 28 Dinner & a BOOvie • 5 pm NTHLY MO

W IN FA R M T E R M A R ERS

11 AM • 9-

O

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330 Town Center Ave. 30024 | 770-945-8996 suwanee.com |

All events are rain or shine, at Town Center Park unless otherwise noted.

Changes happen — check suwanee.com.

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•

• TW IC

4 Suwanee Wine Fest • noon 5 Suwanee Classic Car Show • 10 am 11 Walk to End Alzheimer’s • 8 am 11 Chili Cookoff & Music Fest • noon

JULY

KET

BE

R-APR