TM
Summer 2022
The Hot Spot in the Southeast Inside: • The Atlanta BeltLine Update • Cool Condo Living • Atlanta’s Build-to-Rent Market • A K-12 Private School Primer knowatlanta.com
Atlanta
is world-class summer fun!
With stylish communities near cultural hotspots, Lennar puts you in the perfect place for summer celebration! The many delights of Atlanta are everywhere during summer. Laughing friends drifting down the Chattahoochee River. Rushing roller coasters and water slides at Six Flags. Colorful food festivals with music and art. One-of-a-kind attractions like Stone Mountain, the World of Coca-Cola Museum, ZooAtlanta and so much more. Summer fun is everywhere you look! In a city with a million indoor and outdoor delights to explore, Lennar has all your needs covered. Our communities are the perfect jumping-off place for a great day. Whether you prefer a modern townhome, a traditional single-family home — including our new American Dream Series — or a cozy ranch-style home, Lennar has the perfect design for you — from the $300s to the $800s. Best of all, our signature Everything’s Included® package pre-loads your new home with upgraded finishes, fixtures and stainless steel appliances — plus handy home automation features we call the Connected Home by Lennar®. Check out Lennar.com/Atlanta for more information on our homes and communities.
MODERN TOWNHOMES
SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES
RANCH STYLE HOMES
AMERICAN DREAM SERIES HOMES
To learn more, call 404-931-7462 or visit us online at Lennar.com/Atlanta. The prices of our homes, included features and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions and square footage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Photographs are solely for illustrative purposes and should never be relied upon. Existing and proposed amenities for the community are subject to changes, substitutions and/or deletions without notice. We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2022 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 02/2022 LNATL2025 Summer
COBB Creekwood 55 or Better From the Mid $300’s Powder Springs
GWINNETT Seaboard Junction 55 or Better From the Mid $300’s Loganville
JACKSON Traditions of Braselton Golf Community From the Mid $300s - $700s Jefferson
PAULDING Oakleigh Pointe From the Mid $400s Dallas High Shoals Coming Soon Dallas
Photo by LaRuche Photo
CONTENTS KNOWAtlanta Summer 2022 VOLUME 36, NUMBER 3
Get to KNOW Atlanta
26
6 Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Your Gateway to the World 8
How Atlanta Stacks Up
Get to KNOW Homes & Lifestyles
9
How Metro Atlanta Cities Stack Up
26 In High Places Metro Atlanta’s condo properties share the amenities that set them apart
10 KNOW Where to Go Navigating metro Atlanta’s ITP and OTP locales
32 Moving to Atlanta Timeline
12 Hot Time in the Cities Don’t miss these summer hot spots across metro Atlanta
33 Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities 34 Choose Your Own Lifestyle Metro Atlanta’s new home communities offer distinctive lifestyle options
16 Creating Genuine Connections at Bellyard This West Midtown boutique hotel is a mustvisit destination
37 KNOWAtlanta’s Guide to New Homes
Get to KNOW Business
41 Builder and Developer Locator Map
18 The Atlanta Beltline An Economic Development Powerhouse
42 Leasing The new build-to-rent trend expands residential options across metro Atlanta
23 Big Business in Atlanta The metro area’s Fortune 500 companies and top 20 employers
44 55+ Living Recent empty nesters make the most of the active adult real estate market
24 On the Move Companies of all sizes choose metro Atlanta
Get to KNOW Education 50 Private Schools in Metro Atlanta: A Primer for Relocating Families
18 2 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
John Becker/Atlanta BeltLine Partnership
25 Atlanta: The Tech Mecca of the Southeast
56 Select Metro Atlanta Private Schools Map 58 Above and Beyond Atlanta’s higher education certification programs sharpen skills for students and professionals 61 Get to KNOW Metro Atlanta’s Counties 80 Ad Index
ENJOY YOUR DAILY DRIVE.
Traditions of Braselton offers exceptional homes in an array of architectural styles and price points. From low maintenance, ranch-style living
to spacious two- and three-story homes or
even custom home offerings -
Traditions has it all.
• 18-Hole Golf Course & Clubhouse • Private Owner's Clubhouse with Catering Kitchen • 24/7 Access to Fitness Center • Six Lighted Tennis Courts with Stadium Seating
• Pickle Ball & Sports Court
• Junior-Olympic sized pool with zero-entry splash zone • Open Green for Outdoor Events • Sidewalks throughout
From the Low $400s - $800s �
DiscoverTraditionsBraselton.com/KNOW Monday- Saturday: 11 am - 6 pm & Sunday: 1 pm - 6pm
I
I
706.684.0450
401 Delaperriere Loop, Jefferson, GA 30549
*Prices, features and incentives are subject to change without notice. Certain other restrictions may apply. ©2020 Traditions of Braselton. 12/23/19
FROM THE EDITOR Publisher
SHERRY GASAWAY
sherry@knowatlanta.com
Everything Under the Sun
S
President
LARRY LEBOVITZ
ummer evokes visions of sun-drenched lazy days spent by the pool or lounging on the back deck just feet from the grill. The season is all about kicking back and relaxing after a frigid winter and an always busy spring. There are vacations to
embark upon, mornings for sleeping in and plenty of memories to make. Of course, while we’re all enjoying the mental repose and much-needed recreation that come with the warmest months of the year, there’s nothing slow about all of the happenings across the metro area. In fact, during the summer, things really heat up in the ATL. And that holds true for the summer of 2022.
lebovitz@knowatlanta.com Vice President JOHN HANNA
hanna@knowatlanta.com Editor
AMY MEADOWS
ameadows@knowatlanta.com Associate Editor
CORY SEKINE-PETTITE
cory@knowatlanta.com Writers
On the economic front, things are really picking up along the Atlanta BeltLine, one of the most comprehensive revitalization projects ever done by the City of Atlanta. This urban redevelopment project has become an economic development juggernaut, and you can learn all about the various initiatives surrounding the project on page 18. Of course, that kind of exciting development is being seen all across the metro Atlanta area. In fact, the local hospitality industry has welcomed a new property to West Midtown:
KEN ABRAMCZYK, ALEXANDRA MCCRAY, LINDSAY FIELD PENTICUFF
Digital Marketing Coordinator COURTNEY ROGERS
courtney@deninmarketing.com Art Director
JACK SIMONETTA
jsimonetta@knowatlanta.com
Bellyard, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Get introduced to this contemporary gem with
Advertising Coordinator
our profile on page 16. And if the high life is something you really enjoy, don’t miss
production@knowatlanta.com
our condo feature on page 26, where we look at two of the area’s most coveted condo properties and the amenities that set them apart. As always, KNOWAtlanta Magazine covers everything under the sun when it comes to the relocation information you need when you make a move to our fair city. In this issue, be sure to look for articles about residential options in the build-to-rent market, what new residents need to know about private schools in metro Atlanta, the best communities for active adults and much more. We also look at local hot spots and activities in some of the area’s most beloved cities. So, if you’re looking for a great beach read, look no further than the pages that follow. You’ll be able to soak in some great information and advice about your next big move while you soak in those rays. Amy Meadows, Editor
If you would like additional information from our relocation service providers, visit us online at knowatlanta.com.
@knowatlanta
knowatlanta
4 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
knowatlanta
knowatlanta
MEGAN WILLIS
Circulation Manager AMY FINE
afine@knowatlanta.com Controller
MARILYN WALKER
walker@knowatlanta.com NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING INC.
9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210 Atlanta, GA 30350 (770) 650-1102, (800) 536-5669 knowatlanta.com Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to sherry@knowatlanta.com, (770) 650-1102, ext. 145. KNOW®Atlanta, Summer 2022, Volume 36, Number 3, 142nd Edition. Published quarterly by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Unless special placement within the magazine is specifically purchased, publisher reserves the right to place any ad on a first-come, firstserved basis. No materials contained herein may be reproduced without the exclusive written permission of the publisher. © Copyright 2022 by New South Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.
David Weekley Homeowners Olivia & Reid Fowler
We know time at home is the most valuable. That’s why we craft the home building experience as carefully as we craft our stunning, energy-efficient homes. Our collaborative approach sets us apart, with a deeper commitment to making sure the journey – and final result – is everything you imagined. That’s The Weekley Way!
Homes from the high $300s to $700s+ in the Atlanta area
Sta te
Canton Rd
400
B
Rd
Mc G in nis F erry
85 Rd
23
85
20
y
29
140
lR d
Pkw
985
3
wel
4
75
t C
5
6
6. Design Center
2. Glenhaven at Ridgewalk
7. Broadview Place
285
e cto r
7
From the mid $400s 404-481-3892
3. Ashbury
78 78
Final Opportunities! 404-481-3893
5. Woodbury
From the low $400s 404-481-3889
20
Final Opportunities! 404-481-3886
8. Hargrove
Final Opportunities! From the mid $400s 404-481-3876
9. The Retreat at Sterling on theLake From the high $300s 404-481-3890
10. Ellis
8
ATLANTA 285
5775 Glenridge Drive Building B, Suite #150 Atlanta, GA
Final Opportunities! 404-481-3860
4. Marietta Township
29
285
278
1. Heritage at Towne Lake
From the low $500s 404-481-3890
Ros
MARIETTA
E ast-We s
on n
9
20
92
5
e tt
Bar r
120
2
ge rid
41
470-870-8989
19
Rd
75
10
575
1
er
Mi ll
LAKE ACWORTH
h EC
old
LAKE ALLATOONA
Ar n
ok
ee Dr
140
23
20
278
Heritage at Towne at Ridgewalk 1. Weekley 2. Glenhaven 3. Ashbury See a David Homes Sales Lake Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice Central Living Townhomes Two by DWH Encore DWH or obligation.Encore Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ frombycompleted improvements. Copyright © 2021-22 David Weekley Homes - All Rights Reserved. Atlanta, GA (ATL-21-004761) From the high $300s
Model Now Open!
Models Now Open!
Opening in Late Spring 2022
GET TO KNOW ATLANTA Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport YOUR GATEWAY TO THE WORLD
O
ne of metro Atlanta’s greatest assets is HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. Serving more than 100 million passengers each year, the airport
boasts nonstop flights to over 150 domestic destinations and 70 international destinations in more than 50 countries. In 2020, the airport was recognized as the busiest airport in
AIRPORT CODE: ATL
the world for the 22nd consecutive year. Of course, it makes sense that Atlanta, the leading city in the Southeast, offers such an incredible facility. Just as the city itself is a diverse locale with millions of residents who hail from all over the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a welcoming sight for passengers from all walks of life. Take a look at everything this outstanding airport has to offer.
AT A GLANCE 75+
international destinations in 50+ countries with nonstop service
80
percent of the U.S. population within a twohour flight
895,502
flights annually
2,700+
average daily flights
107
million passengers annually
6 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
275,000
daily passengers
107 million
passengers annually
Seven
concourses
167
domestic gates
40
international gates
Two
terminals
Five
runways
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
PASSENGER AIRLINES
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is a bona fide destination thanks to ATL
In addition to being the
Skypointe, a brand representing the world’s greatest shopping and dining experiences.
home of Delta Air Lines’
Throughout the facility and across its seven concourses, there are more than 300 restaurants,
corporate headquarters,
shops and services. Some of the well-known offerings include:
ATL welcomes flights from
RESTAURANTS: • Atlanta Stillhouse
SHOPS: • Brookstone
SERVICES: • UPS
• Papis East Cuban Cuisine
• Brighton Collectibles
• FedEx
• Cat Cora’s Kitchen
• Buckhead Books
• The Club ATL
• Grindhouse Killer Burgers
• 5th & Sunset
• XpresSpa
• The Varsity
• Brooks Brothers
• Minute Suites
• Bantam & Biddy
• Michael Kors
an array of domestic and international airlines: DOMESTIC: • Alaska Airlines • American Airlines • Boutique Air • Delta Air Lines • Frontier Airlines • JetBlue Airways • Southwest Airlines • Spirit Airlines
AIRPORT ACCOLADES
• United Airlines
• #1 Busiest Airport
INTERNATIONAL: • Air Canada
• #1 World’s Most Efficient Airport • Home to the tallest air traffic control tower in North America and the fourth tallest in the world
• Air France • British Airways • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines • Korean Air • Lufthansa German Airlines • Qatar Airways • Turkish Airlines • Virgin Atlantic
METRO ATLANTA’S ECONOMIC ENGINE Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is an economic juggernaut. It is the largest employer in Georgia and is one of the world’s most well-known global transport centers. And the economic impact can be felt throughout metro Atlanta. • The airport boasts more than 63,000 onsite jobs. • More than 18,000 South Fulton County residents work onsite at the airport, accounting for 28.8 percent of the county’s workforce. • The average income for an airport-based job is $71,500. • The airport supports more than 448,000 jobs across
the Southeast, accounting for 20 percent of the jobs in the region. • The facility provides a $51.5 billion economic boost for metro Atlanta. • Overall, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport generates over $82 billion in annual economic impact for the entire Piedmont Atlantic Megaregion (PAM). • More than 103,600 jobs support the airport’s cargo activity. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Economic Impact Study, released in 2020
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 7
How Atlanta Stacks Up With affordable housing and a low cost of living, Atlantans get more while spending less. To understand why more than five million people call metro Atlanta home, see below how it surpasses other major cities in almost every way that counts.
ATLANTA
AIRPORT CODE: ATL
More for Your Money
$50,000 Salary in Atlanta Equals
Save money on everything
Seattle
from movie tickets to a box
Chicago
$77,108
of cereal with a move to
$60,539
Atlanta, one of America’s most affordable cities. This New York City
bustling metropolis offers
$120,441
world-class entertainment, shopping, sports and dining
San Francisco
at a fraction of the cost of
Washington DC
$95,686
$78,998
other cities. As your living expenses decline, relish your newfound access to the finer
Atlanta
$50,000
things— whether it be an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park or a Broadway play
REDUCE 80% at The Fox Theatre. ENLARGE TYPE 120%
Source: CNN Money
Apartment Rent (2 Bedrooms)
2021 Median Sold Home Price
Atlanta
Atlanta $375,000
Chicago
Chicago $305,000 Seattle Washington, D.C.
San Francisco
$5,700
San Francisco
$1.5 million $600000
$3,512
New York City
$770,000
$900000 $1200000 $1500000
$4,638 $0
$1000
apartmentlist.com, August 2021
Realtor.com
Average Cost of Monthly Parking $130
Atlanta Chicago
$307 $237
Seattle
$318
Washington, D.C. New York City
$570
San Francisco
$350 $0
$100
SpotHERO and monthlyparking.org
8 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
$3,949
Washington, D.C.
$705,000
$300000
$2,568
Seattle
$785,000
New York City
$0
$2,430
$200
$300
$400
$500
$600
$2000
$3000
$4000
$5000
$6000
How Metro Atlanta Cities Stack Up Metro Atlanta includes more than 50 cities. Compare some of these communities by median home prices, median household income, population and growth with the data below.
Cumming
Woodstock
Hall
Forsyth
Cherokee
Bartow
Gainesville
Median Household Income Atlanta
Alpharetta
Alpharetta
Lawrenceville
Marietta
$113,802
Cumming
Suwanee
Fulton
$66,657 $47,273
Cobb
Paulding
Decatur
Gwinnett
Dunwoody
$106,000
Douglasville
$59,948
Dunwoody East Point
Douglasville
$43,453
Gainesville
$51,520
Lawrenceville
$52,585
Marietta
Sandy Springs
Atlanta
$96,057
DeKalb
Decatur
Douglas East Point
Fulton
Rockdale Clayton
$57,452
Peachtree City
$101,121
Sandy Springs
Henry
Fayette
Peachtree City
$78,613
Suwanee
$90,436 $76,191
Woodstock $0
$25000
$50000
$75000
$100000
$125000
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Population Growth (2010-2019) Atlanta 506,811
18.7%
Alpharetta 67,213
Atlanta
17.1%
Cumming 6,547
30.9%
$475,000
Decatur
11.8%
$330,000
Douglasville
6.3%
$300,000
Dunwoody
East Point 34,875 4.3%
$550,000
East Point
Gainesville 43,232
27.0%
Lawrenceville 30,834
Marietta
$400,000
36.3%
Woodstock 33,039 15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
$599,000
Suwanee
38.8%
10%
$457,000
Sandy Springs
Suwanee 20,907
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
$344,000
Peachtree City 16.7%
5%
$365,000
Lawrenceville
7.8%
Sandy Springs 109,452
$249,000
Gainesville
13.3%
Peachtree City 36,223 5.4%
0%
$525,000
Cumming
Decatur 25,696
Marietta 60,867
$399,900
Alpharetta
18.2%
Douglasville 33,992 Dunwoody 49,356
2021 Median Sold Home Prices
$495,000 $396,000
Woodstock
40%
$0
$100000 $200000 $300000 $400000 $500000 $600000
Source: realtor.com
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 9
CHEROKEE
KNOW Where to Go
FORSYTH
ATLANTA
NAVIGATING METRO ATLANTA’S ITP AND OTP LOCALES
D
FULTON
o you want to live ITP? Or do you prefer to be OTP? If you’re new to metro
Atlanta, you may have no
COBB
idea what either of those acronyms mean. Fortunately,
PAULDING
KNOWAtlanta can help you
OTP ITP
GWINNETT
DEKALB
be in the know when it comes
Atlanta
to navigating the metro area’s most-loved locales and
FULTON
choosing the perfect place to call home.
FAYETTE
CLAYTON
Name That Acronym!
ROCKDALE HENRY
Location is Everything Some of the most popular ITP cities, towns,
The rest of metro Atlanta’s many counties
If you’re ITP, that means
districts and neighborhoods include Midtown
fall outside the Perimeter, including Cobb,
you are Inside the
Atlanta, Downtown Atlanta, Buckhead, Decatur,
Cherokee, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Henry and
Perimeter.
Brookhaven, Chamblee, Doraville, Virginia-
several others. Sought-after OTP cities are such
Highland, Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward and
spots as Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta,
East Point, among many others. The two main
Johns Creek, Duluth, Suwanee, Cumming,
counties that fall ITP are Fulton and DeKalb
Braselton, Gainesville, Woodstock, Kennesaw,
counties, while small portions of Cobb and
Marietta, Smyrna, Fayetteville, Peachtree City
Clayton counties also fall within the Perimeter.
and McDonough.
When you’re OTP, you’re Outside the Perimeter. So, what constitutes the Perimeter? That would be Interstate 285, or I-285, a major interstate highway
Savor Your Surroundings
loop that encircles Atlanta
The ITP lifestyle is synonymous with urban big city
Those who choose the OTP lifestyle typically
and connects I-75, I-85
life, complete with industry, entertainment, culture,
have an inclination for spacious homes with
and I-20 to the city. Any-
high-end residential offerings and more. The
yards, local parks and green space and room
thing that falls within the
bustling atmosphere inside the Perimeter is replete
to grow. And while these suburban spots often
loop is recognized as ITP.
with places to go and people to see. The area is
have been seen as providing a slower pace than
Areas beyond the borders
popular with young couples and professionals who
metro Atlanta’s core, there has been an evolution
of the loop are considered
enjoy condo and townhome living, yet single-fam-
in recent years, with many downtown areas
to be OTP.
ily homes are becoming more prevalent in the area
undergoing redevelopment efforts that mix
for those who want to enjoy the intown way of life.
small-town charm with urban convenience.
10 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
n
DON’T MISS THESE SUMMER HOT SPOTS ACROSS METRO ATLANTA By Amy Meadows
Photo courtesy of explorebraselton.com
ATLANTA
Hot Time in the Cities
H
ow do you like to spend your summer days? Do you enjoy taking time to explore the incredible history of the metro Atlanta area? Maybe you’re a music lover who can’t wait to
partake of the phenomenal cultural arts scene that explodes here during the summer season every year. Are you a foodie who’s on the hunt for some spicy fare that’s as hot as the temperatures in July? Whatever your fancy, North Georgia’s cities large and small play host to a variety of hot spots and events that will amp up those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. So get ready to make hay while the sun shines in metro Atlanta.
Braselton: History in the Making A stroll through downtown Braselton, located 50 miles northeast of Atlanta, is like taking a trip into the past. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Braselton emerged as a center of commerce thanks to Historic Braselton
the Braselton Brothers—John Oliver, Green and William Henry— who opened a series of country stores in the area. Today, the town continues to boast a thriving—and continually growing— business community. To maintain Braselton’s historic roots while supporting economic growth, the town has been strategic in its efforts. In recent years, a major revitalization effort has been instituted in the historic downtown district, helping to transform the historic homes of yesterday into modern-day business and government venues. In Downtown Braselton, the landmark Braselton Bros. Department Store building, which was a commercial crossroads for the farming community in the early 1900s, has been rehabilitated in the most unique way. The furniture sections of the building were transformed into house restaurants, boutiques, a salon and the town Welcome Center. The largest section of the building—the original mercantile store from 1904—is being renovated to hold
Braselton Trolley
more shopping and dining. And additional development of the adjacent Town Green includes an old cotton gin that was turned into a brewpub, the construction of a new civic center and more.
12 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
It’s like walking into the past with a bona fide modern twist. A great way to see all of this amazing history is through Downtown Braselton’s Historic District Tours, which are offered periodically through the summer. If you aren’t able to enjoy one of the guided tours, you can step out on your own for a self-guided walking tour, which introduces you to the heritage of the Town of Braselton by bringing you to such locales as John Oliver Braselton’s home, the Braselton Bros. Department Store, the cotton gin, the former Braselton High School site, the Enterprise Roller Mill, the old service station building and the telephone exchange building, among other stops. You can even hop on the Braselton Trolley, which often offers
Smyrna Summer Concert Series
historic tours and lets you ride through history in true style. As they say, it’s not just a ride—it’s an experience. community spirit. At no time of the year is this more apparent For more information, visit braselton.net and explorebraselton.com.
than the summer season, when people gather at such locales as the Village Green (where City Hall, the Community Center and
Smyrna: Jam Session
the city’s beloved central fountain reside) for festivals, seasonal
In Smyrna, recognized as one of the Top 50 places to live in the
events, movie nights and more. And one of the most highly
United States, residents often come together to enjoy a sense of
anticipated seasonal happenings is the Summer Concert Series,
FAMILY
TIME rediscovered
Summer adventures begin in Braselton. Make memories as you explore family- and pet-friendly destinations, including Chateau Elan Winery and Resort. Experience the thrill of race day at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, browse the quaint shops downtown, and enjoy world class dining—all right at your doorstep.
EXPLOREBRASELTON.COM
CHATEAU ELAN WINERY AND RESORT
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 13
Food Truck Tuesdays is considered the best food truck event series around. Each Tuesday from 5 pm to 9 pm through September 27, you can enjoy offerings from a variety of quality mobile gourmet trucks, as well as music to go along with your fare. The assortment of fabulous food trucks gathers in the lower parking spaces adjacent to the playground and mini amphitheater at Taylor-Brawner Park. It’s the perfect blend of music and meals, and it has become
ATLANTA
one of Smyrna’s most cherished summer traditions. Smyrna Food Truck Tuesdays
For more information, visit smyrnaga.gov.
which brings together music lovers from across the metro Atlanta
Chamblee: Spice Things Up
area. Hosted in George C. Wright Municipal Park on Saturday
Located only 14 miles northeast of Downtown Atlanta, this
nights, the series of musical events sees guests bringing blankets
DeKalb County gem is enjoying a remarkable renaissance as of
or purchasing tables and dancing the night away under the stars
late, which has allowed it to become one of the metro area’s most
to some of the best musical acts around. For summer 2022, the
dynamic and sought-after cities. While Chamblee has always
lineup of artists includes such beloved acts as jazz group Phaze II
been renowned for its distinctiveness, it has recently found itself
and upscale party band The Free.
in the spotlight as DeKalb’s fastest-growing city and a multicul-
If you’re not available on Saturday nights, you can still enjoy some jam time in Smyrna—this time at one of the food trucks that gather for the renowned Food Truck Tuesdays. Hosted by the City of Smyrna, Georgia Power and Cobb Travel & Tourism,
14 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
tural mecca for those who want to live in a truly diverse community with notable international flair and a unique quality of life. With that diversity comes some of the most spectacular cuisine found in metro Atlanta. In fact, Chamblee is a foodie’s
Halal Guys
Southbound
delight, with options that you simply can’t find anywhere else.
which represents the many provinces of China. Additionally,
To start, the city is home to a stretch of the seven-mile-long
the 350,000-square-foot indoor Latin retail center Plaza Fiesta
Buford Highway International Corridor, known locally as BuHi.
is another can’t miss locale, which offers food lovers access to an
Along this thoroughfare are some of the area’s finest authentic
array of delectable dining spots. As many people note, dining in
and diverse dining options. Local residents and visitors can
Chamblee is like having an invitation to sit at the world’s table.
pick up Soboro bread at a Korean bakery, have oxtail for lunch
So if tasting and savoring mouthwatering fare is your favorite
at a nearby Dominican restaurant and enjoy Chinese dim sum
summer pastime, then you can certainly spice things up in this
just down the street for dinner. There’s also Atlanta Chinatown
hot city with a cool vibe.
Mall, a 55,000-square-foot venue that is known for its incredible food court and the delicious ethnic cuisine found there,
For more information, visit chambleega.gov or discoverdekalb.com.
n
TOP 5 REASONS TO CHAMBLEE Outdoor
Multi-Cultural
Shopping
Events
Dining
Lodging
Chamblee Summer Concert Series August 26 – 6:00 PM
The Plain White T’s and Fastball will be helping us celebrate the new City Hall, return of our signature events, and the end of the Summer Concert Series. Join us on Friday, August 26 at 6:00 PM in downtown Chamblee to help us celebrate! For more information, visit chambleerocks.net.
Chamblee has become one of Atlanta’s hottest and fastest-growing cities inside the perimeter. From a walkable downtown to the worldfamous multicultural Buford Highway International Corridor (BuHi), this vibrant city is ready to welcome you home.
discoverdekalb.com SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 15
Photos by Caleb Jones Photography
ATLANTA
Creating Genuine Connections at Bellyard THIS WEST MIDTOWN BOUTIQUE HOTEL IS A MUST-VISIT DESTINATION By Lindsay Field Penticuff
O
ne of Atlanta’s fastest-growing neighborhoods is still gleam-
by local artisans and designers, including warm, white oak wood
ing over the opening of one of its newest boutique hotels:
flooring contrasting against dark wood accents, handcrafted
Bellyard, West Midtown Atlanta, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.
custom suite tables, woven rugs and natural, industrial-style
A sophisticated hot spot that boasts 161 inviting yet contem-
walls and ceilings. It also includes more than 7,000 square feet
porary suites and guest rooms, Bellyard is managed by Pivot, the
of indoor and outdoor event space, as well as a 24-hour fitness
lifestyle operating vertical of Davidson Hospitality Group, and
center, rooftop pool and bar and an outpost of the Saint Germain
owned by Three P Partners. The chic property is conveniently
French Bakery.
located in The Interlock, a $450 million modern, industrial-in-
“Our vision for Bellyard is a destination that mirrors the soul
spired mixed-use development, which quickly is becoming
and surroundings of Atlanta’s West Midtown neighborhood, where
known as the place to be for working, playing and staying.
both residents and travelers can create genuine connections,” says
Bellyard opened in May 2021 and has provided visitors not only
General Manager Brendan Abraham. “Bellyard embodies a refined
with outstanding, lavish accommodations, but also easy access
yet approachable escape that replicates the feeling of staying at a
to West Midtown and its incredible amenities, which include
lifelong friend’s home.”
refined boutiques, coveted restaurants and more.
Making the Connection
Based on first-hand experience with their approach to Hotel Bella Grace in Charleston, South Carolina, the team at Pivot is confident that they will be able to continue to innovate and deliver
West Midtown has a long history of industry and commerce that
the same level of excellence for this unparalleled new hotel, Chip
dates back to the cotton gin and railroad era. This district has
Patterson, partner with Three P Partners, explains. “In partnership
been active since 1837, and Bellyard pays homage to the history
with a best-in-class lifestyle operator, we are excited to create an
of the area and how industry and commerce continue to hold a
inventive journey for guests that celebrates the hard work and
key place in the neighborhood’s identity.
character of the historical stockyards that shaped the landscape
To start, the hotel’s design immerses guests in the rich history
of West Midtown and Atlanta at large,” he says. “Bellyard will be
of West Midtown Atlanta and The Interlock, nodding to the area’s
the place to come together with kindred spirits in a thoughtfully
historic stockyards and railroads with thoughtful touches curated
creative and inspiring environment.”
16 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
In the Neighborhood
A Year in the Life
booming West Midtown neighborhood,”
“It is truly an honor to be involved in
In May, Bellyard celebrated one year
notes William Pate, President and CEO of
such an important, revitalizing develop-
since its grand opening with a mystical
the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.
ment here in our hometown of Atlanta,
birthday bash. It was a salute not only to
“The property brings refreshed options
and with partners we respect so much,”
the hard work that brought the hotel to
within walking distance of chef-driven
observes Thom Geshay, president of
fruition, but also to the mark it has made
restaurants and local shops, keeping Atlanta
Davidson Hospitality Group. “Bellyard
on metro Atlanta’s hospitality scene.
top-of-mind as a premier destination for
was the first hotel to open in this bustling
“With the debut of Bellyard, Atlanta’s
entertainment and shopping hot spot.
hotel portfolio continues to expand and
Through relentless passion for delivering
offers visitors new experiences within the
leisure and business travelers.”
n
For more information, visit bellyardhotel.com.
bold, memorable experiences, we look forward to not just meeting, but also exceeding the expectations of our partners at Three P Partners.” In addition to being located in The Interlock, with its outstanding social scene, Bellyard allows guests to enjoy access to a wide array of arts and culture venues throughout the City of Atlanta, such as the National Center of Civil and Human Rights, the Woodruff Arts Center, Piedmont Park, the Georgia Aquarium and more. The combination of walkability to neighborhood locales and proximity to world-renowned venues citywide helps put Bellyard in its own category when it comes to features and amenities.
Wine and Dine While surrounded by a host of exceptional fine dining spots and delectable local eateries in West Midtown, Bellyard has an advantage that other properties do not: Drawbar. Bellyard recently selected a local culinary powerhouse as executive chef for its onsite restaurant experience. Christina Wai was the appointed culinary visionary for Drawbar, which is the
PL AN YOUR SUMMER ESCAPE AT BELLYARD Whether you stay, dine or explore with Bellyard, a visit
hotel’s ultramodern dining and drink-
to our West Midtown hotel offers a unique destination
ing destination. Wai brings a wealth of
that expands your horizons.
experience in executive and sous chef positions to the hospitality hot spot, and at Bellyard, she spearheads the culinary program, executes menu creation, drives culinary outlet operations, builds strong relationships with purveyors and fosters a
1 Interlock Ave NW. Atlanta GA 30318 404.806.8333 | info@bellyardhotel.com BellyardHotel.com
@BellyardHotel
positive culture within her team.
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 17
GET TO KNOW BUSINESS
By Amy Meadows
reimagine Atlanta’s railroad corridor and create “equitable, inclusive and sustainable city life,” is more than just a public infrastructure initiative. In fact, it has become one of Atlanta’s largest and most prolific economic development engines. “The City of Atlanta is growing by leaps and bounds, and the BeltLine, from
hen the Atlanta
an economic perspective, is designed to
BeltLine is
be a catalyst for activities that will attract
complete, which
private sector players as well as additional
is projected to
public sector investment,” explains Kelvin
be at the end of
Collins, vice president of economic devel-
2030, it will connect 45 intown neighborhoods around the city with a 22-mile loop of multi-purpose trail featuring pedestrian-friendly transit, public parks and more. Additionally, another 11 miles of paved urban connector trails will have
Erin Sintos/Atlanta BeltLine Inc.
W
John Becker/Atlanta BeltLine Partnership
AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POWERHOUSE
opment for Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI), the organization charged with planning, developing and executing the BeltLine project. “When someone thinks of the BeltLine, we want them to not just think of a public amenity, but also think of it
been built, bringing people to the main
like an economic transformation project
trail, which also will boast 46 miles of
that is going to impact lives and genera-
improved streetscapes along the way. Yet,
tions to come.”
the ambitious redevelopment project,
Upon its completion, the Atlanta
which was proposed by Georgia Tech
BeltLine is slated to have generated more
student Ryan Gravel in 1999 as a way to
than $10 billion in economic development for the city and created 50,000 permanent full-time jobs. Many strides John Becker/Atlanta BeltLine Partnership
BUSINESS
The Atlanta BeltLine
have been made to advance towards these impressive goals since the project’s official launch in 2005. And the BeltLine has become a bona fide beacon of positive economic news and opportunity as the metro area has emerged from the pandemic, with an array of funding and grants being awarded to the project recently and construction poised to increase exponentially over the coming months. “There’s no other project like the
Ponce City Market
18 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
BeltLine,” Collins observes. “That’s why we have to seize the moment.”
Erin Sintos/Atlanta BeltLine Inc.
New City Properties
Old Fourth Ward Park
funds and awareness for the project, is excited to help all businesses along the 760 Ralph McGill Blvd. Erin Sintos/Atlanta BeltLine Inc.
BeltLine succeed. National Brand Recognition For years, major national companies have made their way to Atlanta, with many corporations relocating their headquarters, distribution centers and additional operations to take advantage of the city’s—and the State of Georgia’s—exceptional business-friendly environment. The BeltLine has become an integral part of that opportunity, and a host of top national brands have started finding their way to locations along the project corridor. Some are moving to Atlanta from other states, while many companies are relocating within the city itself. For instance, digital marketing company
Southside Trail
Mailchimp recently announced that it will move its headquarters from Ponce City Market to a new $1 billion mixed-used somewhere along the bustling corridor.
development from New City Properties in
Those companies are doing more than
the Old Fourth Ward, which is located
The Atlanta BeltLine is comprised of
thinking—they’re acting. In fact, there
along the Eastside Trail. Consulting giant
eight major trails covering the entire
currently are more than 3,000 business
McKinsey & Co. also chose to leave its
22-mile loop, from the Northside to
licenses located within a half-mile of the
longtime downtown location to move to
the Southside and the Eastside to the
Atlanta BeltLine. Companies of different
the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, which has be-
Westside. Each of the trails is under
sizes are flocking to the area for varying
come a significant magnet for business ac-
development and boasts some level of
and very specific reasons, and ABI, in
tivity with $3.7 billion in private redevelop-
completion, and the buzz of activity has
collaboration with the Atlanta BeltLine
ment in recent years. The Atlanta Business
encouraged businesses of all sizes to con-
Partnership (ABP), the nonprofit organi-
Chronicle also relocated from Buckhead to
sider what it would mean to be located
zation that works to raise philanthropic
the Old Fourth Ward, taking up residence
Get Down to Business
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 19
BUSINESS
Ponce City Market
The Atlanta BeltLine by the Numbers The Atlanta BeltLine project is at once impressive and formidable. Just look at what will be accomplished when the project is completed. The numbers speak for themselves.
45 intown neighborhoods connected
33 miles of multi-use urban trails
in the redeveloped Southern Dairies office
the corridor, which sees nearly two mil-
complex. According to Collins, this activity
lion visitors each year. “Small businesses
has prompted a variety of large companies
want to get in on the action. They want
from Corporate America, including Micro-
to get some of the economic benefit, the
soft and Nike, to make major moves toward
revenue potential and the consumers,”
the BeltLine as well.
he states. “While large companies see the
“If it’s happening in Atlanta, it’s happen-
BeltLine as an amenity for their employ-
ing on the BeltLine,” Collins explains. “This
ees, those mom-and-pop shops are the
is creating a new pattern of development in
ones that generate local jobs and are also
which national brand companies are com-
going to make the BeltLine special.”
ing to Atlanta because of the connectivity
Today, the BeltLine corridor is home
and the talent. And those large companies
to small businesses covering a range of
are finding ways to leverage the idea of
industries, from restaurant and hospitality
being on the BeltLine as a recruiting and
to fitness, healthcare, art and design and
retention tool for that talent.”
more. And as more stores and restaurants
He continues, “The world of work has
have started opening along the trails that
changed. If you’re going to bring people
comprise the project, ABI and APB under-
back into the office, you have to give
stand that market forces will change the
friendly rail transit created
them an amazing amenity that allows
availability and affordability of commercial
46 miles of improved
them to step out onto the trail and take a
space. These organizations have devised
walk during lunch or ride a bike to get to
an array of programming designed to help
and from work without having to get in
small businesses access the resources they
a car. The BeltLine provides that for top
need to operate in the area. For example,
talent. All of this is part of the integration
ABI, in a joint venture with The Village
that the BeltLine offers, attracting top-
Market, recently introduced the BeltLine
name companies not only to the BeltLine,
MarketPlace, a pilot program that offers
but also to the city and the region as a
affordable commercial space for up to
whole.”
six local Black-owned businesses. The
22 miles of pedestrianstreetscapes
1,300 acres of new green space
1,100 acres of
environmental clean up
5,600 units of affordable
business incubator project will transform
workforce housing
Small Business Boom
architectural and artistic shipping contain-
50,000 permanent jobs $10 billion in
For small independent businesses, the
ers into storefronts that face the Westside
BeltLine is just as appealing. As Collins
and Eastside Trails.
economic development
20 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
notes, retail shops, restaurants and a host
“We want to help these business owners
of other businesses recognize the incred-
incubate their ideas and support them to
ible amount of foot traffic experienced by
help them get to a point where they can
New City Properties
Erin Sintos/Atlanta BeltLine Inc.
Eastside Trail
725 Ponce
move into brick and mortar locations
BeltLine to allow many other small busi-
in play. And with construction along the
along the BeltLine,” Collins notes. “We
ness owners to enjoy the same benefits.
BeltLine really ramping up in the coming
are being very intentional and thoughtful.
Collins says, “We love the big business
We welcome large businesses, but we also
in the area, but we also want to spend time
jobs are going to provide a real boost to
recognize that small businesses need to be
with the local independent businesses. We
the local job market in the region.
in on the action, and we cannot leave that
want to leverage the project in order to
up to market conditions.”
have successful entrepreneurship around
an environment that allows jobs to be
the BeltLine. To me, that is the legacy.”
available and hoping that people will find
Currently, an independent committee is reviewing applications for the BeltLine
months and years, those construction
Of course, ABI is not simply creating
their way to them. That’s why ABI and
MarketPlace, which will involve much
Good Job
more than the storefront opportunity.
Since the beginning of the project, the
partners, have set their sights on an array
Those selected also will receive technical
BeltLine has had a goal of establishing
of workforce development efforts. “We
assistance, business coaching, marketing
50,000 permanent jobs, as well as 48,000
want to be able to bridge the gap,” Collins
support and access to additional resourc-
construction jobs to bring the trails,
says. “What we want to be able to do now
es to ensure that the businesses grow and
parks and transit resources to fruition. To
is to make sure that the residents who are
can transition into larger, more perma-
date, ABI and APB are well on their way
around the BeltLine can participate in
nent spaces in the near future. And the
to making this a reality, with nearly half
those job opportunities. We want to look
goal is to scale the project all along the
of those 50,000 private sector jobs already
at what skills are needed to match the
APB, along with a number of community
The Workforce Housing Initiative For Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., housing is a key factor in the economic development associated with the BeltLine project. As Kelvin Collins says, “We want to create new housing opportunities around the BeltLine because we want the BeltLine to be a great place to live, work and play.” By the end of 2030, the goal is to have 5,600 units of affordable and equitable workforce housing available for
Edge on the Beltline
the public. Yet, the homes will not be affordable simply because of how and where they are built. By creating the
in recent years, with more than 3,100 affordable homes
overall environment for new jobs, the BeltLine will help
already completed.
local employees have the income to access those quality,
“We are marching towards that 5,600 homes,” Collins
well-appointed homes. It’s a vision that has come quite far
says. “It’s all part of the economic development umbrella.”
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 21
Collins says. “We want to help businesses access the local talent and make sure that the local talent feels that they can easily access those jobs. We want to bring everyone together.”
What Comes Next
BUSINESS
Late last year, ABI, ABP and the project’s partners achieved a funding milestone that will provide more than $300 million to keep the BeltLine development moving through 2030. The funding push was in The BeltLine MarketPlace
part a result of the passage of the BeltLine Special Service District in March of 2021, which will bring together an array of community resources to help complete
job opportunities and help train the local
training, occupational skills training,
the 22-mile corridor. Additionally, the
talent so they can participate.”
career coaching, job placement and
project received $80 million from the
lifetime support. “We want to make sure
Robert W. Woodruff Foundation and $30
joined forces with STRIVE Atlanta to
To that end, in 2020, ABI and ABP
that residents get access to the jobs that
million from the James M. Cox Founda-
offer its program, which encompasses a
are coming, whether they’re in construc-
tion to further fund the completion of the
five-pillar model addressing job readiness
tion technology, logistics or hospitality,”
project. And companies large and small continue to support the BeltLine, participating in sponsorships and fundraising efforts that will help benefit the project itself and the community-at-large. “The funding of resources is there, and we have a line of sight to complete the trail,” Collins says. “Our CEO, Clyde Higgins, has positioned us well to execute this last eight years of the project. Our team is highly motivated and ready to go.” The forward motion of the BeltLine continues to draw national attention, as there is no other redevelopment project like it in the country. The level of investment made to take a railroad corridor that once separated neighborhoods and transform it to connect those locales is unprecedented, as is the economic development associated with that effort. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring economic benefit by leveraging public infrastructure,” Collins concludes, “The BeltLine is where Atlanta comes together. And now, it has come to life.” For more information, visit beltline.org.
The BeltLine Trails
22 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
n
Big Business in Atlanta THE METRO AREA’S FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES AND TOP 20 EMPLOYERS
A
tlanta, which has a reputation for being one of the most business-friendly cities in the nation, is proud to be a popular destination for many renowned companies that appear on the
annual Fortune 500 list. In 2020, the City of Atlanta ranked third in the country for the number of Fortune 500 firms and fourth for companies on the Fortune 1000 list. In fact, today, Atlanta is home to 16 Fortune 500 companies and 14 Fortune 1000 businesses. The attraction to the city makes sense, as Atlanta offers access to a booming economy, a low corporate tax structure, a highly educated and skilled workforce, one of the world’s largest travel hubs, a right-to-work status, a growing innovation ecosystem and much more. And every day, numerous companies are either launching in or relocating to the metro area. The metro area also continues to draw many other top businesses in the nation, including State Farm, IHG, Porsche Cars North America and Mercedes-Benz, all of which have established headquarters here and often appear on the list of metro Atlanta’s top employers. Their dedication to being a part of the metro area’s
Atlanta’s Top 20 Employers Company
Full-Time Employees
for the local workforce, is a testament to the city and its ongoing
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
34,500
efforts to create a welcoming and robust economic climate.
Emory University & Emory Healthcare
32,091
The Home Depot
16,510
Northside Hospital
16,000+
Piedmont Healthcare
15,900
Publix Supermarkets
15,591 15,353
business community, as well as ensuring solid job opportunities
Atlanta Fortune 500 Companies Company
Rank
WellStar Health System
The Home Depot
26
The Kroger Co.
15,000+
United Parcel Service
43
AT&T
15,000
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
68
UPS
14,594
The Coca-Cola Company
88
Marriott International
12,000+
The Southern Company
153
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
9,000
Cox Enterprises
8,894
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
8,403
The Coca-Cola Company
8,000
Southern Company (including Georgia Power)
7,753
Grady Health System
7,600
SunTrust Bank (now Truist)
7,478
Georgia Institute of Technology
7,139
(TIE) State Farm
6,000
(TIE) Turner Broadcasting System
6,000
Genuine Parts Company
171
WestRock
177
PulteGroup, Inc.
309
Newell Brands Inc.
316
AGCO
350
Veritiv
412
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.
428
NCR Corporation
439
Intercontinental Exchange
459
Graphic Packaging Holding Co.
477
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.
478
Source: Metro Atlanta Chamber 2020
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 23
On the Move BUSINESS
COMPANIES OF ALL SIZES CHOOSE METRO ATLANTA
I
t’s no secret that Georgia has been recognized for its exceptional business-friendly environment. In fact, Site Selection has named it the number one state for doing business for eight consecutive years. That kind of reputation undoubtedly attracts companies of all sizes to settle in the area every year, establishing headquarters, distribution centers, customer service operations and more. And
many of those organizations have found a home right here in metro Atlanta. Here are some of the most recent big business moves to our fair city and its surrounding areas. the state. The building will be used to ac-
will create 150 jobs over the next two
celerate growth for the company’s e-com-
years. Initially, the location will hire for
merce and multi-customer warehouse
positions in finance, human resources,
offerings. Positions will be available for
procurement and digital solutions, and
warehouse pickers/packers and shippers,
additional opportunities, functions
PepsiCo Beverages North America
forklift operators and management and
and business services will be added as
(PBNA), a division of PepsiCo, is plan-
supervisory professionals.
the hub grows. Operations for the new
PepsiCo Beverages North America ning to expand its manufacturing facility
offices launched in the second quarter of
in the City of Tucker. The expansion will
2022. The company, which has pio-
encompass a $260 million investment
neered mRNA therapeutics and vaccines,
resulting in an additional 260,000 square
selected Atlanta because of its thriving
feet of space and the creation of at least
Carvana
136 full-time jobs. The expanded facility
The industry pioneer for buying and
will be able to increase the plant’s produc-
selling cars online, Carvana, has been
tion five-fold by 2025, making it one of
recognized for its continued expansion
the largest manufacturing facilities within
within the State of Georgia. To date, the
the company. What’s more, the overall
company employs 1,500 people and plans
investment will increase the company’s
to create up to 3,500 additional jobs over
Trenton Systems
workforce in DeKalb County to more
the next several years. Carvana recently
Trenton Systems, a Georgia-based
than 600 jobs.
expanded its campus in DeKalb County
high-performance computer manufac-
and continues to hire for positions in
turer, has opened a new headquarters in
engineering, customer care, product and
Duluth, located in Gwinnett County. The
more. By locating its Customer Experi-
company, which manufacturers, assem-
ence Center headquarters in Dunwoody,
bles, tests and supports secure computing
the Fortune 500 company is taking ad-
solutions, will add more than 50 new jobs
Ryder System, Inc., a leader in supply
vantage of the metro Atlanta area’s large,
to the area with the facility; positions
chain, dedicated transportation and
skilled and diverse workforce.
available will range from marketing and
Ryder System, Inc.
life sciences industry sector and strong workforce.
commercial fleet management solutions,
sales jobs to roles in engineering, quality
recently announced that it will invest in
and production. The new office will not
a new $44 million distribution center in
only house Trenton Systems’ headquar-
Locust Grove. The high-tech, third-party,
ters, but also many of its business support
678,000-square-foot facility will allow for
Moderna, Inc.
the creation of more than 250 jobs and
Biotechnology company Moderna,
facility in Lawrenceville, which is being
give the company direct access to I-75, as
Inc., recently established a new enter-
used as a manufacturing and production
well as other key logistics access points in
prise solutions hub in Atlanta, which
house for current and future projects.
24 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
teams. The company also operates a
n
Atlanta: The Tech Mecca of the Southeast
O
ver the last several years, Atlanta has garnered a reputation as one of the
The Rankings Atlanta is racking up an impressive list of
#1 CITY FOR STARTUPS THAT IS NOT
accolades and acknowledgements in the tech
NEW YORK OR SAN FRANCISCO
arena. Here are just a few:
(FitSmallBusiness.com, 2018)
metro area as one of the world’s
#1 METRO AREA TECH HUB (Business
#1 GAMING ENVIRONMENT
elite tech towns, placing it in
Facilities, 2020)
(WalletHub, 2019)
the number three spot of cities
#4 STATE FOR PERCENT OF FEMALE
Atlanta also has the 11th largest tech talent
country’s fastest-growing and most prolific technology hubs. Forbes Magazine named the
poised to become tech meccas in the near future. Cushman & Wakefield included Atlanta on its list of America’s 25 leading high-tech metro areas. The
WORKERS IN TECH OCCUPATIONS
labor pool nationally, as well as the highest
(CompTIA, 2020)
growth rate of tech degree completion rates
#4 METRO AREA CYBER CITY (Business
among the country’s leading tech hubs.
Facilities, 2020)
(CBRE, 2021)
city has even been called the “Silicon Valley of the South.” And that’s just the beginning of Atlanta’s story as it continues its rise to becoming one of the nation’s top tech destinations.
Atlanta’s Tech Hot Spots While the entire metro Atlanta area has the distinction of being integral to the growth of the local tech industry, there are a few
Metro Atlanta Incubators Finding success in Atlanta’s
Information Technology Programs
tech sector begins with finding
In recent years, students have
the best place to plant roots.
flocked to metro Atlanta
The metro area is home to an
to study a wide array of
array of incubators that are fos-
subjects under the technology
tering the development of the
umbrella. Here’s where they
city’s standout startups. Check
go to access some of the best
out these innovative spaces:
information technology and
locales that truly stand out.
Atlanta Tech Village
Midtown Atlanta: Home to Technology Square, Midtown has
Located in Buckhead
become one of the key districts of the local technology commu-
atlantatechvillage.com
nity. The area boasts 15 corporate innovation centers, several tech incubators and accelerators and more than 150 startups. Buckhead: Anchored by Atlanta Tech Village, a renowned technology incubator complex that is recognized as the fourth largest tech space in the nation, Buckhead is a major driver of Atlanta’s success in the tech arena. Alpharetta: Located 30 miles north of Atlanta, Alpharetta has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the tech space. The metro city is home to 700 technology companies and has been called “The Technology City of the South.” Peachtree Corners: One of the first suburban areas to be
computer science programs in the country: Georgia Institute of Technology: gatech.edu
Atlanta Technology Development Center (ATDC) Located at Georgia Tech in Midtown Atlanta atdc.org The Farm Located at The Battery Atlanta thefarmatl.com
recognized for its technology opportunities, Gwinnett County’s
The Circuit
Peachtree Corners is home to such innovative spots as Atlanta
Located in Woodstock
Tech Park, which features space for more than 100 companies.
circuitwoodstock.com
Morehouse College: morehouse.edu Emory University: emory.edu Georgia State University: robinson.gsu.edu Kennesaw State University: ksu.edu University of Georgia: uga.edu Gwinnett Technical College: gwinnetttech.edu
n
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 25
GET TO KNOW HOMES & LIFESTYLES
J5 Midtown
Seven88 West Midtown
26 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
In High Places METRO ATLANTA’S HOTTEST CONDO PROPERTIES SHARE THE AMENITIES THAT SET THEM APART
Photo by LaRuche Photo
By Amy Meadows
O
ver the last few years, Atlanta’s condo market has become a hot commodity, with new properties popping up along the city skyline as home buyers clamor for well-appointed residences coupled with a true low-maintenance lifestyle in a bustling urban setting. With so many options now available, it can be tough to decide which condo community to choose for your new home in the ATL.
For some, the deciding factor involves the resort-style amenities offered by the condo development. From swimming pools and fitness centers to onsite restaurants and concierge service, the bells and whistles can make all the difference in selecting your new address. Here, two of the area’s most coveted condo properties share the top three unique features and amenities that set them apart in the local market and could be the key element that stands out for you during your condo home search.
J5 Midtown
Seven88 West Midtown
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 27
Seven88 West Midtown HOMES & LIFESTYLES
788 West Marietta Street, Atlanta, GA 30318, (770) 863-8888, 788westmidtown.com One of the city’s most popular condominium developments is
the property’s 279 luxury residences, affording those views to
Seven88 West Midtown, a beautiful 22-story building located on
everyone. And home buyers can choose from 20 exceptional floor
Atlanta’s Westside. Offering a hip, urban lifestyle, the property
plans designed to maximize the building’s views and space. The
features a unique all-glass exterior that offers dramatic city views
homes, which include one-, two- and three-bedroom options, as
and open vistas from every direction. The bold, contemporary
well as penthouses, are priced from the mid-$300s to more than
architecture includes floor-to-ceiling windows inside each of
$1 million and feature designer finishes presented in three distinct options, hardwood flooring and kitchens with European-style cabinetry with under-mount lighting, waterfall-edge quartz countertops, tiled backsplashes and much more. In terms of the property’s amenities, there are three can’t-miss opportunities that should factor into your decision-making process.
The Saltwater Pool Seven88 West Midtown’s gorgeous saltwater pool is a peaceful, relaxing oasis that provides more benefits than a traditional chlorine pool. For additional relaxation and rejuvenation, take a dip in the whirlpool spa next to the pool, heated to the perfect temperature. Not much of a swimmer? The area contains multiple locations to lounge and to soak in some sunny rays. Shaded canopies and gathering areas make for great hangout spots by the water. The Outdoor Deck Opposite the pool deck is a spacious outdoor deck that is fully outfitted with an outdoor dining area, barbeque pits and a cozy fireplace. Happy hours, impromptu grilling and night sky watching are a few of the many activities you can enjoy on the terrace. City views help make the experience even better, as onlookers can view iconic restaurants and buildings near and far from the comfort of the deck. For some greenery in Atlanta’s concrete jungle or a respite from the work-from-home life, Seven88’s amenity deck adds to the allure of the building. The Indoor Dog Park The indoor dog park is one of the final pieces that ties Seven88’s amenity package up with the perfect treat for pets and their owners. Four-legged residents can stretch their legs and freely run around the area without traveling far from their homes. A mural of the Atlanta city skyline pays a colorful homage to the location of Seven88 and completes the look of the place. For relaxation and pampering for your pooch, right next door is a dedicated dog spa area to freshen up those tired paws. Furry family members will have a blast in this part of the property.
28 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
IMMEDIATE
AVAILABILITY
•
$500,000
-
$1
MILLION+
LIFE THROUGH A WIDE ANGLE LENS
RESORT STYLE
LIVING IN WESTSIDE
PLANS THAT FIT YOUR
AMENITIES
ATLANTA
LIFESTYLE
Saltwater pool, club and fitness rooms, and an indoor dog park
Minutes away from Georgia Tech and top local attractions
Move-in ready Studios, 1 - 3 Bedrooms, and Penthouses
788 West Marietta Street NW | Atlanta, GA 30318 788westmidtown.com | info@788westmidtown.com | (678) 981-9336
Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the seller’s representations. For correct representations, reference should be made to the website and to the documents required by code
§ 44-3-111 of the ‘Georgia Condominium Act’ to be furnished by the seller to a buyer. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. For illustration purposes only, subject to change. David Tufts Broker of Record.
J5 Midtown HOMES & LIFESTYLES
775 Juniper Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, (470) 589-5055, ownj5.com The J5 in Midtown Atlanta is located at the corner of Juniper and
and high ceilings that provide and open and airy feel throughout.
5th streets and offers a mix of urban energy and at-home sereni-
The one- and two-bedroom homes also boast livable outdoor
ty. The six-story building’s contemporary, stylish condos start in
space with spacious terraces and balconies, as well as numerous
the mid-$400s and are as unique as they are spectacular, marked
floor-to-ceiling windows that are designed to bring the outdoors
by neutral interiors with top-quality finishes, ample natural light
in. The building has actually undergone an impressive rebrand and transformation that speaks to the modern condo buyer with an array of interior upgrades. The building is home to a host of impressive resort-style amenities, and each one is more distinctive than the next. Be sure to check out the following features.
The Amenity Spaces Drawing inspiration from the surrounding Garden District, J5’s amenity spaces serve as an extension of the home office. These unique WiFi-enabled community spaces feature designer finishes and allow for complete digital connectivity throughout the building. To create a sense of serenity for residents, Atlanta-based interior designer Michael Habachy and his team at Habachy Designs included biophilic design elements—such as naturally preserved greenery walls and marble—to create a contemporary yet calm feel within the lobby space for residents to utilize. The Elevated Sky Garden and Pool Terrace This spectacular space acts as a peaceful reprieve for residents to unwind from busy city life. The terrace overlooks the city’s treetops with unobstructed views of the historic Midtown Garden District. With comfortable lounging chairs, seating areas and a firepit, the terrace is the perfect place for residents to entertain family and friends or simply take a few moments to get away from it all. And, of course, there’s always the opportunity to take a dip in the pool while you’re enjoying the incredible view. The Sunset Viewing Deck After a long workday, residents at J5 are able to enjoy the sunset viewing deck overlooking the Atlanta skyline. With comfortable sitting areas both inside and outside, which are connected via an indoor-outdoor fireplace, the space allows residents to choose where they want to cozy up for a relaxing night in. The deck takes full advantage of J5’s outstanding Midtown location and lets homeowners enjoy the view of the beautiful city that surrounds this sophisticated and welcoming condo building.
30 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
n
Scan to View Remaining Availability of One & Two Bedroom Plans
Brand New, Move-In Ready Midtown Condos 1 Bedrooms Selling From the $500,000’s 2 Bedrooms Selling From the High $500,000’s
City Garden Sanctuary Rooftop Terrace
Elevated Pool Terrace
Sunset Viewing Deck
Indoor/Outdoor Club Rooms
Health & Wellness Center
775 Juniper St NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308 OwnJ5.com | ownj5@evatlanta.com | 470-589-5055 ©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
Moving to Atlanta Timeline
T
here’s a lot of work that goes into coordinating an organized move, and it’s
smart to get a head start on planning before the moving truck arrives at your door. Here’s a handy guide to help you streamline some of the most important activities associated with your move to Atlanta.
ONE MONTH Before
ONE WEEK Before
n Research your options for moving or truck
n Confirm travel arrangements and pack a
rental companies and schedule your move. n Collect and organize necessary school, med-
ical and legal records. n Complete a change of address with your
local post office or online at usps.gov. n Notify other important parties of your
change of address, including your bank, credit card companies, insurance companies and subscription services. n Schedule disconnection of services at your
current home and reconnection at your new house, including phone, cable and Internet. n Hold a garage sale or donate items that you
decide not to keep.
travel kit for you and your family members for the move. n Confirm dates and time of packing and
moving with the moving company. If you’re moving yourself, confirm moving truck arrangements. n Finalize your packing and double-check that
all areas (including closets, garage, attic and basement) are cleared. n Pack a “First Open/Load Last” box; include
items you’ll need on the first day in your new home.
ONE DAY Before n Complete a house check; defrost the freezer,
drain the water hose and disconnect and prepare any major appliances you’re planning to move. n Make sure to have cash on hand to tip the
team from the moving company. n Confirm hotel or temporary accommoda-
tions, if needed. n Check the moving company paperwork to
identify the USDOT number of the truck that is scheduled; the number appears on the side of the truck and should match on moving day.
WELCOME TO ATLANTA Save money on your natural gas with SCANA Energy. Schedule your new service up to 90 days in advance by calling 1-866-280-6236, or visit 32 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022 SCANAENERGY.COM/MOVER60.
Metro Atlanta Guide to Utilities
B
efore you put the key in the lock of your new home, you have to prepare the property for your arrival. This means getting your
utilities up and running soon after your home closing. Here in metro Atlanta, there are a number of services you’ll need to set up. Be sure to put these on your list as you begin the process.
Natural Gas While metro Atlanta has a temperate climate, you’ll want to warm your home during the winter. Also, natural gas is used for water heating, cooking, clothes drying and more. You’ll need to select a natural gas provider, and there are several that serve metro Atlanta. You typically can research rates, customer service offerings and discounts and sign up online, making the process quick and convenient. Did You Know? Georgia deregulated its natural gas market in 1998. Atlanta Gas Light owns and controls the natural gas pipelines, and natural gas marketers work with it to access them. Companies like SCANA Energy offer both fixed rate and variable rate plans depending on your needs.
Electricity Accounting for 48 percent of household energy use in Georgia, electricity should be at the top of your utility service list. Depending on where your home is located, you have options. You can select a company like Georgia Power, which is the largest subsidiary of the Southern Company, or one of the Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs) that provide electricity to the area; these non-profit utilities serve more than four million
by either the county water authority or the city government. If you are moving into a previously owned home, the former owners can provide you with information. For new homes, the builder can point you in the right direction.
Phone, Cable and Internet These days, phone, cable and Internet service is just as important as every other utility. In metro Atlanta, major service providers like Xfinity and AT&T are going to be the most common options, as they cover the entire area. Some counties do offer alternatives, allowing you to personalize your service. As with all other utilities, a bit of online research can make the process fast and seamless.
customers as part of the Georgia Electric Membership Corporation.
Water With metro Atlanta being comprised of so many cities and towns, it’s no surprise that there are various water and sewer service
TIP To see which providers serve the county in which your home is located, be sure to check out KNOWAtlanta Magazine’s County Pages, starting on page 61.
providers. Typically, your home will be serviced
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 33
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
Choose Your Own Lifestyle METRO ATLANTA’S NEW HOME COMMUNITIES OFFER DISTINCTIVE LIFESTYLE OPTIONS
W
hen you’re searching for your
Hollow Landing, a new community in
forever home, you look at so much
Gainesville, is just one of them. A curat-
more than the residence itself.
ed, European, urban farmhouse commu-
While square footage, bedroom count
nity, Long Hollow Landing ultimately
and finishes are extremely important
will feature 59 home sites, with eight
in your decision-making process, you
being lakeside. A community dock and
undoubtedly are on the hunt for the com-
boat slips available for purchase make
plete package that includes a location in a
the neighborhood—with beautifully de-
neighborhood that meets your particular
signed four- and five-bedroom residences
lifestyle needs. Fortunately, metro Atlanta
from David Patterson Homes ranging
boasts an array of new home commu-
from the $500s to $1 million-plus—a
nities that are as unique as the residents
water enthusiast’s dream come true.
who choose them.
newhomesdivisionga.com/communities/ long-hollow-landing/
“One of the reasons new home construction is so popular is that you get to choose the community that best fits
Creative Outlet
your lifestyle,” says Lori Lane, Senior
It’s no secret that metro Atlanta has
Vice President and Managing Broker
Homestead at Milton, a private gated
become a hub for creatives. From a
of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices,
community that sits on a stunning prop-
booming film production industry to an
Georgia Properties New Homes Division.
erty that formerly served as a 180-acre
excellent scene for writers, musicians and
“Communities in and around Atlanta
golf course. The Homestead at Milton
artists of all kinds, the area has cultivated
offer an excellent value with all the high-
features 30 wooded home sites that range
quite a cultural scene. For those who
end amenities that come with living in a
in size from three to 10 acres and access
want to take advantage of the energy that
metropolitan area. With the large num-
to a world-class design team that includes
comes with it, there’s Trilith, a mixed-use
ber of counties in Metro Atlanta there are
award-winning architect Stephen Fuller
community designed for creatives located
a wide variety of communities that appeal
and Atlanta’s top custom homebuilder
in Fayetteville. Trilith features everything
to any price point.”
Loudermilk Homes. Homes, which
from single-family homes and mi-
range from $3.5 million to more than
cro-homes to industrial lofts ranging in
you, you’re sure to find the perfect new
Whichever lifestyle category speaks to
$10 million, feature their own unique
price from $500s to $2 million+, as well
home community in the metro area. Lane
characteristics brimming with outstand-
as an eco-friendly lifestyle marked by am-
shares a few outstanding options based
ing Southern architecture and amenities.
ple green space, pocket parks, resort-style
on your personal lifestyle wish list.
thehomesteadatmilton.com
amenities, commercial and retail space, onsite dining options, a dedication to
Wide Open Spaces
Water, Water Everywhere
Metro Atlanta is home to bustling city
If life on the lake is calling your name,
streets and towering high-rises, but it also
then you’re in luck. Lake Lanier, a 38,000-
is known for its rolling green hills and
acre reservoir situated in Northeast Geor-
For more information, visit Berkshire
sprawling rural and equestrian land. If
gia, offers a host of residential options
Hathaway HomeServices Georgia
the latter is more appealing to you, then
that will allow you to spend your days out
Properties’ New Homes Division at
head north of Atlanta and check out The
on the water whenever you please. Long
BHHSgaNewHomes.com.
34 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
environmental sustainability and more. trilith.com
n
Where Home and Land Meet
The Homestead at Milton, is a new luxury community featuring 4 to 10 acre homesites in Milton, Georgia. This gated neighborhood is a rare, once in a generation opportunity to design and build a custom homestead of your own.
Custom Luxury Homes from $3.5 Million + 30 Homesites from 4-10 Acres Designed by Award-Winning Architect - STEPHEN FULLER Award-Winning Home Builder - LOUDERMILK HOMES Developer - VISION DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS Exclusive Agent - JD KENT 678-787-7949 The Homestead at Milton.com 15135 Hopewell Road Milton, GA 30004 ©2022 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Information presented is deemed reliable, but is not warranted. If your property is currently listed, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit properties that are already represented by another broker. Equal Housing Opportunity.
NEW HOME COMMUNITIES ABOUND IN METRO ATLANTA Are you ready to find your dream home in metro Atlanta? Check out these fantastic new home communities as you
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
begin your search: Soleil Belmont Park Soleil Belmont Park is a 55+ community built by Patrick
Soleil Belmont Park
Malloy Communities. Located between Milton and Canton, Soleil Belmont Park will feature 471 low-maintenance homes situated on large home sites. Priced from the $500s, Soleil offers an array of resort-style amenities, including a 9,800-square-foot community clubhouse with a coffee and cocktail bar, health and fitness center, catering kitchen, arts and crafts studio, club/ card room and a community post office. Homeowners will enjoy a resort-style pool, tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball, a community garden and walking trails. In addition, Soleil Belmont Park will have its own lifestyle and travel director. SoleilBelmontPark.com South on Main
South on Main
Woodstock’s new urban village, South on Main is shaped by the unique vision and experience of Atlanta icon John Wieland and is more than just a neighborhood. Connect and unwind at neighborhood parks. Grab your bike and hit the trail for a short ride to Downtown Woodstock. Stroll the shops of Main Street and find your favorite dinner spot. Inspire your creativity at the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. Train your green thumb in the community garden or just enjoy a sunny spot by the pool. All of this and more are at your doorstep at South on Main, where homes are available from the $600s to the $900s. JWCollectionHomes.com Kyle Farm When you live at Kyle Farm in West Cobb, daily life has
Kyle Farm
just a little more of that vacation vibe. Here, homeowners enjoy open-air entertainment spaces where neighbors and friends gather for fun and onsite recreation. There is a large open clubhouse with a swimming pool, a kid’s splash pad, tennis courts, bocce ball and an event lawn. There is even a walking trail to Lost Mountain Park, and The Avenue at West Cobb is just a short drive away. Homes at Kyle Farm start in the $600s - $1 million+ and offer a variety of architecture, all surrounded by the natural beauty of Lost Mountain Park. PMCommunities.com
Sales and Marketing by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties New Homes Division www.BHHSgaNewHomes.com
36 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
KNOWAtlanta’s Guide to New Homes
Davidson Homes
From the $300s-$1.3M+
Lennar
From the $300s-$800s
Builder Magazine’s Biggest Mover in 2021, Davidson Homes is proud to offer homebuilding expertise to the fast-growing Atlanta market with a variety of incredible home plans in Bartow, Cherokee, East Cobb, East Paulding, Gwinnett, Henry and West Forsyth counties. Davidson Homes builds where you want to be. Enjoy professionally designed selections or customize your home with quality design options and upgrades, making it your dream home. Call or visit the website today!
Lennar is blooming throughout Atlanta, and we have a dream home for YOU. Enjoy our single-family or townhome designs with open-concept layouts and plenty of indoor/outdoor living space. Our Everything’s Included® package offers upgrades and appliances at no additional cost to you. We also offer a simplified homebuying experience through Lennar Mortgage, enabling you to make your lifestyle leap with ease.
(404) 999-1579
(404) 931-7432
davidsonhomesllc.com
lennar.com/atlanta
Traton Homes/Haven at Stanley
Traditions of Braselton
Situated in a great Kennesaw (Cobb County) location, Haven at Stanley offers two-story townhomes featuring both owner’ssuite-on-the-main and owner’s-suite-upstairs floor plans. The community is located just minutes from major thoroughfares, great shopping and dining, major work districts like the Wellstar Kennestone Hospital District and outstanding recreation including Kennesaw Mountain Park. Homes are priced from the high $400’s to$500’s. Voted Best Builder in Cobb County.
Welcome to Traditions of Braselton! Brimming with scenic beauty, this 1,140-acre master-planned community in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains features an 18-hole championship golf course, opulent clubhouse, junior Olympicsized pool, six lighted tennis courts, an active HOA, highly revered schools, convenience to I-85 and more! Stunning new homes crafted by the South’s finest builders are priced from the low $400s to $800s. Traditions has it all!
From the High $400s-$500s
(678) 391-9482
tratonhomes.com
From the Low $400s-$800s
(706) 684-0450
discovertraditionsbraselton.com/KNOW SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 37
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
Rocklyn Homes
From the Low $200s-$500s
Lake Arrowhead From the $300s-$500s
Rocklyn Homes is an award-winning, family-owned company with a unique vision and passion to build beautiful, awardwinning, single-family homes and townhomes at great prices in some of the most sought-after locations in Atlanta. Backed by years of experience, they will deliver quality, value and reliability in every home they build. Visit a Rocklyn community and discover the Rocklyn difference: “The Most Important Home We’ll Build Is Yours.”
Dare to live the life you have dreamed. Welcome to Lake Arrowhead, a gated mountain, lake and golf community outside of Canton. The community’s private lake features 21 miles of shoreline, a marina, boat rental program, lakeside park, more than 14 miles of hiking trails, fishing, pickleball, sport courts, disc golf and much more. Newly released ranchstyle homes and golf villas are now available. New plans and neighborhoods are coming in 2022.
(770) 817-2185
(770) 720-2700
rocklynhomes.com
lakearrowheadga.com
McKinley Homes
JW Collection
From the $300s
From the $400s-$900s
McKinley Homes has over 45 years of experience developing and building commercial and residential communities, including townhomes and single-family subdivisions, apartment complexes and multi-family high-rises in Atlanta. The company produces quality homes with standard features and amenities that go above and beyond expectations. Visit the website or one of our many metro Atlanta communities and see why McKinley Homes is “Where Dreams Come Home!”
For more than half a century, the name John Wieland has been synonymous with excellence in neighborhood design and homebuilding. The JW Collection is the legacy business of John Wieland and represents his 50-year commitment to building better homes—a promise he has kept for more than 30,000 homeowners and continues to uphold. New homes and townhomes by the JW Collection are ideally located in many of Atlanta’s best neighborhoods and most sought-after destinations.
(770) 334-9951
(770) 809-6010
mckinleyhomes.com 38 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
JWCollectionhomes.com
Fischer Homes David Weekley Homes From the Mid $400s-$800s
David Weekley Homes has been delighting customers in Atlanta for more than 15 years with four decades of building experience across the country. Weekley is one of the most sought-after builders for home buyers seeking a quality home and unmatched customer service. David Weekley Homes is currently building in communities throughout the Atlanta area, including beautiful homes in Flowery Branch, Marietta, Woodstock, Alpharetta and Decatur.
Mid-$300s-$500s
Fischer Homes now offers low-maintenance homes in Dallas at the new 55+ community Poplar Place. Ranch homes range from 1,501 to 2,500 square feet with two to five bedrooms, two to 4.5 baths and two-car garages. Options include covered patios, loft spaces and side-entry garages. Future amenities include a clubhouse with a fitness center, outdoor living space and flex room for activities, as well as a gated entrance, walking paths, a pickleball court and bocce ball.
(404) 620-6814
(844) 819-6045
davidweekleyhomes.com
fischerhomes.com/find-new-homes/ atlanta/georgia/communities
Soleil Belmont Park
Paran Homes
From the $400s
Soleil Belmont Park is a 55+ community from Patrick Malloy Communities. Located between Milton and Canton, it will feature 471 low-maintenance homes situated on 1/3-acre+ home sites. Soleil offers resort-style amenities, including a 9,800-square-foot clubhouse with a coffee and cocktail bar, health and fitness center, arts and crafts studio and community post office, as well as a pool, tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball, a community garden and walking trails.
(770) 635-4080
soleilbelmontpark.com
From the Mid $300s-$600s Boasting nearly a century of combined experience in new home construction and an award-winning team of industry veterans at the helm, Paran Homes builds homes of uncompromised quality in many of Atlanta’s most sought-after locations while delivering a stellar home buying experience. Buyers can select from an array of move-in ready homes or personalize their home with the latest options from our Design Studio. Schedule an appointment and tour one of our models today!
(678) 726-9646
paranhomes.com/know SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 39
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
The Village at Towne Lake by Davidson Homes
J5
High $400s-Mid-$800s
From the High $500s
Welcome to The Village at Towne Lake, boasting a luxurious clubhouse, fitness center and swimming pool. The community’s home plans highlight courtyard-style living with large sliding doors that open to make the patio a welcome addition to your living space. The open-concept designs and luxury finishes will make you feel at home from the first time you see them. The best part is that The Village at Towne Lake features a great location, just a mile from downtown Woodstock.
Welcome home to our new condominiums, located in Midtown’s Garden District. From quality construction to full-service amenities and unmatched lifestyle, residents have access to all Midtown has to offer. Enjoy open-concept living spaces, complete with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and wide-plank hardwood flooring. Your evening wind-down awaits on our sunset viewing terrace where you can enjoy fireside chats. J5 welcomes you to a place as unique as you.
(678) 780-4940
(470) 589-5055
davidsonhomesllc.com
ownj5.com
Need more information when making your move? Visit knowatlanta.com to learn more about metro Atlanta, including information on healthcare, housing options, educational opportunities, city and county details and maps to help navigate your way around the area.
KNOWAtlanta.com 40 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Dawson
KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO NEW HOMES BUILDER AND DEVELOPER MAP Bartow
30 25
Cherokee
21
22
Forsyth
45
43
Hall 32
CARTERSVILLE
10
3
44
17
6
39 51 18
4
24 55
7
MILTON
5 20
40
16
52
JOHNS CREEK 34
54
Fulton
42
Cobb
Jackson
50
Barrow
36 2
35
33
19
Gwinnett
9
Paulding
53 41 37
MONROE
48
56 14 26
31 12
38
23 29
Atlanta 15
13 11 46
27 8
47
DeKalb
Douglas
SOCIAL CIRCLE
Fulton
Rockdale
Clayton Carroll
Newton
49
Coweta Fayette
Henry 28
SHARPSBURG
Davidson Homes 1. Everleigh 2. Riverwood 3. Mountainbrook 4. Tanglewood 5. The Village at Towne Lake David Weekley Homes 6. Ashbury 7. T he Retreat at Sterling on the Lake 8. Hargrove 9. Ellis 10. Glenhaven at Ridgewalk Engel & Völkers Atlanta 11. J5 12. Atlantic 13. 40 West 12th 14. Enclave at Peachtree Memorial 15. Interlock Townhomes
Walton
Fischer Homes 16. River Rock 17. The Reserve at Liberty Park 18. Twin Lake 19. Poplar Place JW Collection 20. South on Main 21. The Retreat at River Green 22. Lakeside at River Green 23. The Enclave on LaVista 24. The Heritage at Acworth 25. Lake Arrowhead Lennar Atlanta 26. Cumberland Station 27. Envoy 28. Fayette Meadows 29. Aspen Grove 30. Hickory Bluffs
1
McKinley Homes 31. SEVEN88 West Midtown 32. Hellen Valley 33. Summit at Peachtree Corners 34. Rivière 35. Towns at Enclave Paran Homes 36. Oakleigh Pointe 37. Creekwood 38. Seaboard Junction 39. Traditions of Braselton 40. High Shoals Patrick Malloy Communities 41. Kyle Farm 42. Hillandale 43. Soleil Belmont Park 44. Governor’s Towne Club 45. Horizon at Laurel Canyon
Rocklyn Homes 46. Hawthorne Station 47. Beverly Heights 48. Spring Valley 49. Renaissance of South Park 50. Townes of Auburn 51. Traditions of Braselton Traton Homes 52. Courtyards at Hickory Flat 53. High Parc at Smyrna 54. East Park Village 55. Haven at Stanley 56. Tapp Farm
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 41
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
Before You Buy
THE NEW BUILD-TO-RENT TREND EXPANDS RESIDENTIAL OPTIONS ACROSS METRO ATLANTA By Ken Abramczyk
F
or homeowners, relocation to another
had needs for more room or had a grow-
when millennials began to fuel housing
community or state traditional-
ing family. We thought that market was
demand as some paid off student loans.
ly meant selling one house to buy
incredibly underserved.”
They were itching to build their own home
another. Not anymore. Would-be home
ResiBuilt moved forward on the build-
equity, and they entered the market with a
buyers who enter the metro Atlanta market
to-rent concept but soon discovered the
vengeance. Low interest rates also helped
now are considering and leasing homes
potential market was larger than strictly
fuel the housing markets for new homes
in build-to-rent communities, a hot trend
millennials. “We expected millennials, but
and homes listed for sale.
that has emerged in Georgia, spawned by a
they only make up about 40 percent [of
low housing inventory, skyrocketing home
customers],” Byce says. “Another 40 percent
pause button,” says John Hunt, principal of
values and demographics that may want
is recent empty nesters. Those people either
MarketNSight, which researches housing
more mobility or lack the funds needed for
want to downsize or move to a hassle-free
and mortgage data and trends. In May
a mortgage down payment.
lifestyle.”
2020, there were 2.7 months’ supply of
Developers noticed this trend and recog-
Fortunately in metro Atlanta, those look-
“But the pandemic hit and that hit the
available homes to purchase, but that fell
nized this unfilled need. Among them was
ing to take advantage of rental opportuni-
to 0.7 of a one month supply in May 2021,
Jay Byce, co-founder and SVP of ResiBuilt
ties have plenty of options.
according to MarketNSight research. With
Homes, which offers several communities for rent throughout metro Atlanta. “When we started looking at the Atlanta
How We Got Here
0.7 months’ supply, inventory “might as well be zero,” Hunt says. These potential
This housing dynamic is a remarkable
home buyers turned to rentals because
market specifically, we noticed builders
evolution. The foreclosure explosion
they could not find housing they liked or
were constructing second or third homes
of 2008 to 2011 increased the housing
could afford to purchase. With values con-
or higher-end homes,” Byce says. “We
stock and property availability until the
tinuing to increase and housing inventory
looked at the dynamics and realized that
foreclosures leveled out. Construction of
so tight, Hunt explains, “Housing is in a
millennials who were apartment dwellers
new homes stalled. Fast forward to 2019,
vacuum right now.”
42 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Building to Rent When it comes to the build-to-rent arrange-
Metro Atlanta’s Build-to-Rent Communities
ment, Byce says the concept follows the same
Build-to-rent communities are thriving throughout metro Atlanta. Don’t miss
logic as the lease agreement for cars. “The
these outstanding options from ResiBuilt as you begin your own search for
product we build is the same as what home-
the ideal rental property.
owners buy,” he says. “It is an option, much
Chase Landing, Loganville
like a car lease was created to access a car.”
This community offers single-family homes along Big Flat Creek and is
Developers are creating build-to-rent communities to accommodate consumers’ needs by adding flexibility with less home
located near Loganville’s downtown. A variety of three- and four-bedroom homes are available, and the community offers amenities including a community clubhouse, an outdoor pavilion, a fire pit and more.
maintenance, yardwork and landscaping.
resihome.com/communities/atlanta/chase-landing/
What’s more, Byce notes, “We put all the same amenities in our homes as we do
Overlook at Mill Creek, Dacula
for home buyers—we just give them an
Located just off of I-85, Overlook at Mill Creek features a mix of single-family
opportunity to lease instead of buy. We
homes and townhomes, which boast an array of interior amenities like stain-
handle 100 percent of the maintenance
less steel appliances, granite countertops, hardwood
of the homes, and we handle 100 percent
floors and more. The community also features a
service of the homes. It’s an easy lifestyle
community pool, recreation area and playground.
choice for residents.” What’s more, renters
resihome.com/communities/atlanta/
don’t have to worry about closing costs that
overlook-at-mill-creek/
accompany home purchases or homeowners’ association fees and taxes. According to Hunt, zoning often requires developers to build larger homes, so renters often can obtain four-bedroom, 2,400-square-foot homes in highly coveted and convenient locations. “You get more options with space for your family,” he says. “And just like the builders, the developers of build-to-rent are moving further out [geographically] to keep the prices down.” Mobility is another consideration in a rental home. “People tend to stay in homes for four or five years, which is about the same for renters and homeowners,” Byce
Why a hotel room when you can have an apartment home?
W
ith a minimum 14-day stay, TP Corporate Lodging residents enjoy all the amenities of a full-size apartment home that costs less than a hotel room.
says. “That was one of those trends we saw that indicated we need to bring this concept to market.” In late April, ResiBuilt’s homes ranged in price from $2,000 a month for townhomes to $2,300 for single-family detached homes, while larger homes rented for $2,900 to $3,000. “The most important thing for us is that the product is exactly the same as they buy,” Byce concludes. “We’re not trying to be a dominant factor in the housing market; we are simply an option for people to have the lifestyle they want.”
W
hether a small or large company, Business Professional or Family; we can accommodate your requests. • Full size kitchen & appliances • Washer & dryer • Desk/work area • Separate Rooms with 2nd TV You don’t have to share with anyone, so it feels a little more like home.
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n
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 43
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
Free as a Bird
Fischer Homes
RECENT EMPTY NESTERS MAKE THE MOST OF THE ACTIVE ADULT REAL ESTATE MARKET By Amy Meadows
W
hile the real estate market has been a roller coaster in
surged to over 80 percent. In Atlanta, the report notes, seniors
recent months, prompting many potential home buyers to
make up 6.5 percent of metro area home buyers today.
pump the breaks on their impending residential searches,
“This trend may be in part attributable to larger numbers of
there is one demographic in that has illustrated a steady increase
wealthy Baby Boomers entering the 65-and-over age bracket,”
in home buying: seniors. In fact, according to Construction-
ConstructionCoverage.com’s report reveals. “With more than 71
Coverage.com, which provides research to help businesses in
million Boomers controlling an estimated $70 trillion in wealth,
the construction industry, homeownership among seniors has
the share of 65-and-over homeowners may continue to increase
44 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Model Park Opening Summer 2022
THIS IS IT RESORT LIVING FOR 55+ AND BETTER
This is it. The community you’ve been waiting to call home. Here, breathtaking homes on large home sites with resort-level amenities are all right outside your door. Easy access to Milton, Alpharetta and Canton.
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every day. And this segment of the market has evolved lately to match the unique
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
needs—and slightly changing demographics—of these particular home buyers.
A New Age In years past, the concept of a senior home buying market focused on a much older age group, with those in their 70s and 80s falling into the category. However, the active adult designation has expand-
Lake Arrowhead
ed to include much younger individuals who are moving into the next phase of their
as the last of the Baby Boomer cohort
market has virtually exploded over the
reaches that age.”
last few years. Active adult communities
With this in mind, it’s no wonder that metro Atlanta’s active adult real estate
lives—namely the empty nest years. Judie Woodall, a managing member of
can be found all across the metro area,
Strategic Real Estate Advisors, observes,
and more are being added to the list
“We have begun seeing a slightly younger
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46 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Winner
empty nester group starting in their early 50s.” Laura Watkins, president of Marketing Results, Inc., agrees. “This segment is skewing younger than in years past,” she says. “We are seeing more 50 and 60 year olds purchasing today.” In fact, according to Kimberly Garwood, director of marketing for Traton Homes, while active adult buyers in general range from ages 55 to 80, the majority of recent empty nesters are in
Soleil Belmont Park
the 55 to 60 age group. The reasons these individuals are choosing to consider
active adult living are as numerous and
from large, older homes that worked
longtime home in this instance is not a
varied as the home buyers themselves.
perfectly for their growing families but
sad experience. “Rightsizing is not about
To start, downsizing is a key factor,
now seem too spacious and require a
giving things up,” Woodall notes. “It’s
with empty nesters looking to move on
great deal of maintenance. Yet, leaving a
about keeping the things you love while
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SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 47
In the Community: The Social Network For empty nesters, the community in
HOMES & LIFESTYLES
which they settle needs to be the right fit, and that often begins with the social opportunities afforded by the neighborhood. “People want the opportunity to interact with neighbors and have a social life beyond their kids,” Watkins states. “It’s about lifestyle, lifestyle, lifestyle.” Fortunately, many active adult communities offer myriad options and locales for meeting and gathering with neighbors, from clubhouses and pools to green spaces and more. “Living in a 55+ community makes it easy to make friends and enjoy
Traton Homes
a sense of community with others in the same phase of life,” Garwood observes. embracing the fun and freedom of the
Yet, Garwood continues, “Many recent
According to Woodall, having in-com-
next passage of your life.”
empty nesters may want to keep in mind
munity resort-style amenities also “makes
“It’s about a lifestyle change—having
the number of additional bedrooms they
it easier for the kids and grandkids to
‘me’ time, enjoying a smaller, low-main-
might need; our plans provide the option
say, ‘Let’s go to Grandma and Grandpa’s
tenance home and making new friends
to add a second level with a media room
house for the weekend or for a week
with similar interests,” Watkins reveals.
and an additional bedroom and bath-
during the summer.’”
And when it comes to a low-maintenance
room for children, grandchildren and
lifestyle, Carrie Rogiers, marketing man-
guests.”
ager for Fischer Homes, explains that this
The home’s exterior is equally import-
Additionally, the greater surrounding community also can add to an active adult neighborhood’s allure for empty
can mean a variety of things, from having
ant; however, not having to maintain a
nesters. “These buyers look for a desirable
less interior space to take care of to re-
yard is critical for most empty nesters.
location with lots of local amenities, such
quiring fewer outdoor chores to maintain
Fortunately, a majority of today’s active
as shopping centers, restaurants, recre-
your home’s exterior. And the right active
adult communities offer that coveted
ation and healthcare,” Garwood says.
adult community will give you the perfect
feature. “Yard work will be a chore of
balance of the things that you need most
the past, and you’ll have more time for
looking for the complete package in an
as you move into your golden years.
activities,” Rogiers says. Garwood adds,
active adult community. And the reason
“Empty nesters are looking to leave their
is simple. As Woodall says, “Finding a
lawn mowers behind and enjoy the bene-
home that’s the right fit is the key to a
fits of a lock-and-leave lifestyle.”
happier, healthier life.”
At Home: Form and Function When it comes to purchasing the ideal residence, Garwood points to several
Beyond these common requirements,
In the end, today’s empty nesters are
must-have interior items for today’s
there are an array of even more contem-
Where to Start
buyers. “Some of the key features [empty
porary features that empty nesters look for
If you’re an empty nester just beginning
nesters] look for are bedrooms on the
among active adult home options. Accord-
your new home search, be sure to check
main level, stepless entry into the shower,
ing to Watkins, some buyers may want an
out these highly sought-after active adult
level-entry garages and homes with few
office or work space, as many individuals
communities and offerings from some of
or no steps,” she notes. “They also like
are still working at this point in their lives.
the area’s most prolific 55+ builders.
covered and screened porches and an
What’s more, Woodall says, “The appeal of
outdoor area large enough for personal
energy efficient features, materials, technol-
Lake Arrowhead
gardening or a small fenced area for
ogies and much lower utility bills are high
lakearrowheadga.com
pets.” Rogiers adds that one-level living
on the list. The goal is clean, new and chic.
A gated mountain, lake and golf mas-
is a key consideration for many buyers.
Out with the old, in with the new.”
ter-planned community located just
48 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
outside of Canton, Lake Arrowhead has
ated on more than 400 acres conveniently
County soon to follow. Each of Traton’s
become one of the area’s most popular
located between Canton and Milton, the
active adult communities boasts its own
destinations for home buyers 55 and
community is slated to open soon with
unique style and fantastic amenities pack-
older, as the ever-growing development
beautifully appointed, low-maintenance
age. And the well-appointed ranch homes
offers an unparalleled suite of 55+ homes.
residences sitting on large home sites
feature spectacular indoor and outdoor
According to Woodall, there are exciting
and ranging from the $400s to the $700s.
living spaces.
new plans and neighborhoods being re-
What’s more, the community offers a host
leased in Lake Arrowhead in 2022, all of
of outdoor amenities.
Fischer Homes fischerhomes.com
which are ideal for a primary residence, second home, weekend getaway or rental
Traton Homes
Fischer Homes is making a splash in
opportunity. The options include lakeview
tratonhomes.com
metro Atlanta’s active adult real estate
homes, modern mountain cottages,
While Traton Homes has been building in
market with Poplar Place, a gated 55+
lakeview ranch homes, estate home sites
the Atlanta market since 1971, the compa-
community located in Dallas. The new
with acreage, expansive mountain and
ny entered the active adult market in 2018.
community features the Patio Home
golf view homes and golf villas.
Today, the company boasts several active
Collection, which offers residences with
adult communities, including Courtyards
the privacy and well-appointed beauty
Soleil Belmont Park
of Camden in West Cobb, Kirk Ridge in
of single-family homes coupled with a
soleilbelmontpark.com
Marietta and Courtyards at Ebenezer in
low-maintenance lifestyle. The communi-
One of the newest options in the local
East Cobb. Its most recent community
ty soon will be home to a clubhouse with
active adult market, Soleil Belmont Park
is Courtyards at Hickory Flat in Canton
a fitness center, outdoor living space and
from Patrick Malloy Communities offers
in Cherokee County, with Courtyards at
flex room for activities, as well as walking
what it calls “55-and-Better Living.” Situ-
Traditions off of Majors Road in Forsyth
paths, a pickleball court and bocce ball. n
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 49
GET TO KNOW EDUCATION
Atlanta Academy
Private Schools in Metro Atlanta: A Primer for Relocating Families By Alexandra McCray
T
he process of relocating comes with a bevy of important tasks, and finding the right school for your child is surely at the top of the list. If you are interested in sending your children to one of the metro area’s independent schools, this prim-
er will help you begin to get acquainted with the metro Atlanta private school market and shares some essential details to consider as you begin exploring the options.
50 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Timing is Everything The first step you’ll likely want to take is determining your timeline for researching and applying. According to Rebekka Whitehead, founder and CEO of Whitehead Learning Group, an education consultant company that supports families through the process of finding and applying to private schools in metro Atlanta, “We partner with families June to June—a full year—to ensure that parents are getting an appropriate feel of the private school landscape, navigating their non-negotiables when it comes to identifying their child’s next school home and finalizing their school list.” She suggests, if possible, that parents relocating to Atlanta also start looking at schools about
Mount Paran Christian School
a year out from the summer leading into their children entering a grade at the new private school.
tion’s Principles of Best Practice, schools
the start of April for general purpose
that are members follow set common
schools (not focused on special needs),
application deadlines can also affect
admission calendar dates. After admis-
parents have about a two-week period
your research and preparation timeline.
sion notification at the end of March or
to contemplate their final decision, and
In addition to your move date,
Whitehead says it’s common
member schools do not reach
for schools to open applica-
out to them during this time.
tions for the following school
There are situations that allow
year from the start of October
AAAIS schools flexibility out-
to early or mid-December and
side the set common admission
require outside documentation
calendar dates, including if a
and other processes such as
family is relocating from out of
interviews to be submitted
the country.
and completed by February. “Notifications are always sent
Bracing for Competition
out the first Saturday in April,”
High competition is a reality
she says.
of the metro Atlanta private
Not all private schools in
school market. “Atlanta is a
metro Atlanta follow this
unique learning microcosm
admission schedule, and some
because our city offers schools
offer rolling admissions. More
that cater to grades K-5, K-6,
than 70 schools in the region
K-8, 6-12, 7-12 and K-12,”
are members of the Atlanta
Whitehead says. “There are
Area Association of Inde-
‘feeder schools’ and gen-
pendent Schools (AAAIS). According to the organiza-
Lyndon Academy
eral placement trends that contribute to high application SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 51
EDUCATION
numbers and low attrition values.”
also can affect tuition pricing.
She explains that, as expected, appli-
School location can be as im-
cation rates and openings are higher
portant a factor when considering a
for the grades schools consider to
private education as it can be if you
be “traditional entry points” for
were enrolling your child in public
new stages, such as the beginning of
school. Of the four most populous
upper school, which may combine
counties in the metro area, the big-
what is usually thought of as middle
gest, Fulton, also has more private
and high school. “The ‘nontradition-
school options than its smaller
al entry points’ are those years in
counterparts, according to data from
between—1st, 2nd, 3rd—and while
the Georgia Department of Educa-
there are historically less applicants,
tion and the 2020 Census. Fulton,
there are also [fewer] spots,” she says.
which includes popular cities such
Because private school acceptanc-
as Atlanta, Alpharetta and Johns
es can be hard to come by, White-
Creek, has 91 private schools, while
head says there are two strategies
the next three largest—Gwinnett,
parents sometimes adopt. One, she explains, is that they’ll go the public
Atlanta International School
education route for elementary
Cobb and DeKalb—have 36, 42 and 60, respectively. Numerous counties make up
school and apply to private schools
the metro Atlanta area, and the Georgia
for middle school. Whitehead explains
middle school in different ways, but
Department of Education makes it easy
that parents like to use the time before
mainly to help their children discover
for parents coming to the area to see a
what they’re passionate about. “We’ve
complete list of private schools available.
seen a myriad of things. Overall, it’s about
It provides an online database of all the
students being exposed to different inter-
private schools in the state, plus a few in
ests—sports, extracurriculars, academ-
Alabama and Florida, that you can sort
ic—before learning what to specialize in
by city, zip code or county.
for middle school. This strategy also helps
Pre-K through 12th Grade
with the interview process and student
mends looking into as you begin to
personal statement,” she says.
explore the metro Atlanta private school
The other plan involves parents
AVERAGE SAT SCORE: 1352 AVERAGE PSAT PERCENTILE AMONG JUNIORS: 94th *Results among students with 5 years or more of education at Lyndon
LyndonAcademy.org 770-926-0166 52 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
market include the Georgia Indepen-
working to get their children accepted to
dent School Association (GISA) and the
the private school of their choice from
Georgia Association of Christian Schools
kindergarten.
(GACS). You may also want to refer to
Considering Finances and Location AVERAGE ACT SCORE: 30
Other resources Whitehead recom-
the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), Cognia
Whitehead says that parents may also
(formerly known as AdvancED|Measured
decide to pursue the first option as part
Progress) or another accrediting organi-
of a financial strategy to offset the cost
zation, to confirm school accreditation as
of a private school education. Based on
you do your research.
data from schools her firm works with, middle school can range from slightly
Getting a Grasp on Testing and Virtual Resources
under $10,000 and go as high as more
As you begin to inquire about testing,
than $32,000, while high school can start
the Joint Admissions Testing Program
at $13,500 and also go to over $32,000.
(JATP) or Secondary School Admission
Families’ religious affiliation and the
Test (SSAT) will likely quickly come up.
number of children attending the school
The JATP is unique to Atlanta and is a
tuition costs for kindergarten through
standardized evaluation for children in kindergarten through 5th grade that is sometimes part of the application process. For children in 6th through 12th grade, some schools may require them to take the SSAT, also a standardized assessment. Whitehead says, “Not all schools require the JATP or SSAT. Rather, some schools elect to implement their own evaluations. And in some cases, schools require both—a standardized test,
The Wood Acres School
JATP or SSAT, depending on the child’s grade, and an on-campus evaluation to assess academic and social
demic, many began hosting online tours
more equitable to out-of-state and inter-
readiness.”
and offering virtual ways for prospective
national applicants with access to virtual
parents and students to get to know their
tours, campus events, coffee chats and
school and campus.
online programming that equips parents
To keep track of the entire application process, it’s important to use a variety of resources at your disposal. If your child
Whitehead concludes, “One of the
with an understanding of a school’s cur-
already attends private school, you may
silver linings of COVID-19 is that the
riculum, community and culture—with-
be familiar with Ravenna, which private
admissions processes have become much
out stepping foot on the campus.”
n
schools can use as a catch-all digital portal for admission materials and notifications, along with important information such as school records and parent contact details. The software is not the only way some metro Atlanta schools have begun to incorporate more virtual resources, explains Whitehead. Due to the pan-
For more information, visit: • Atlanta Area Association of Independent Schools: aaais.org • Cognia: cognia.org • Georgia Association of Christian Schools: gacs.org • Georgia Independent School Association: gisaschools.org • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools: sacscoc.org • Southern Association of Independent Schools: sais.org
Confidence
By Building Character
During this time of uncertainty, we are even more committed to empowering students as they design a better world. Schedule a virtual visit or call today. mountvernonschool.org/admissions
• Whitehead Learning Group: whiteheadlearninggroup.com
Photo Taken Fall 2019
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 53
Words to the Wise EDUCATION
Local private school administrators share their tips for a smooth school relocation
Y
ou put so much time into searching for the perfect home when you move to a new city. You have to make sure that the residence you select is the right fit for you and your family, and the result is well worth the effort when all of your needs are met. The same is true when you are looking for the right private school for your children. You have to find a school Janet Brown, Head of School, Annunciation Day School annunciationdayschool.org • When visiting schools, pay attention to how the school feels. You will know when you enter the lobby of the school if the fit is right. • Ask admissions, the head of school or any teachers or staff you meet, “What do YOU like best about working in this school?” This will give you an idea of the health of the school culture. Kristi McCarthy, Director of Admissions, Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com • Before you begin, make a checklist of what you want from your private school experience. Is it academics, sports, social and emotional development? Do you want your child to be exposed to the creative arts, debate, robotics and STEAM? Is it close to your home? Does it offer an afterschool program? • After visiting different schools, sit down as a family and weigh the pros and cons. Hopefully, you feel connected to one [in particular]. Speak with the admissions director so they can help you navigate the application process, schedule a shadow day and begin your private school journey. Atlanta International School Head of Admissions aischool.org • Involve your student. Whatever their age, it is important to make sure that your child is central to the process 54 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
that meets your children’s particular academic and social needs while providing them—and your entire family—with a community in which they can thrive. Here, administrators from several metro Atlanta private and independent schools share their tips for navigating the process of choosing the right school when you relocate to the ATL.
of finding the right school for them. Joining school events, interacting with student ambassadors and involving children with open days and school visits will all help them to get the feel of a school. And always try to interact with a school more than once to see it at different points of the academic year. • Talk to other families. At AIS, we have a very vibrant and active Parent Organization (PO). Once families are enrolled, the PO’s Family Ambassador Program pairs new families with existing ones who have similar interests and situations. But reaching out to hear other parents’ and students’ perspectives before that point should be an authentic part of the application process. Bayless Fleming, Director of Enrollment, and Allyson Maebert, Associate Director of Enrollment The Galloway School gallowayschool.org
days for your student(s) if available and attend an open house. Non-admission events, such as a spirit night or a fine arts performance, are also great chances for your family to interact with the school community. Shanna Rein, Director of Admissions, Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org • With such a wide range of school choices, it is important to start early and schedule tours that occur during the instructional day so that you can see a school in action. Look for course offerings that align with your child’s interests, as well as teaching styles that align with your child’s needs. Class size is also something to make note of, as all students thrive in an environment that offers the maximum amount of teacher interaction coupled with small group instruction. Also look for schools that allow for your child to have a visitation or shadow day.
• Start exploring schools during the fall before the school year you wish to enroll. Most private schools open the admission season on October 1. By beginning the search early, families have plenty of time to research multiple schools, attend tours and contact admissions offices with any questions they have well in advance of the late January application deadline.
• Once you have selected a school or several schools that you wish to apply to, [make sure to] have all documents required by the school available as soon as possible. Not having the required documents can delay your acceptance and potentially keep you from being able to secure an available seat.
• Maximize your opportunities to interact with the school community. As schools adjust to the admissions season in a post-pandemic world, campus visits and in-person open houses are also returning. Schedule shadow
Stephanie Dunn, Director of Admission, Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.com • Identify your personal value system and the “why” behind issues that are
important to your child’s overall school experience. Seek out the school’s mission statement and make sure it aligns with your family’s beliefs. • Understand and follow the instructions for applying on the website and act promptly. Seek out the appropriate people for specific questions and concerns. JoJo Cadre, Assistant Director of Admissions for Outreach, Paideia School paideiaschool.org • First, develop a plan for learning about schools. While it might be difficult, if it is possible, put off your housing decision until you know which school you would like to attend. If moving with a new job in hand, think about the distance traveled from your office with the options for independent schools because traffic is a thing in Atlanta. Also, plan to apply to multiple schools because many families are looking to attend independent schools. • Families should consider what belonging looks like and feels like at their
ideal school. Discover how each school models acceptance and encouragement for all students. As you explore, consider how fairness and inclusiveness play a part in students’ lives. Marc Weiss, Admissions Director K-8, Saint Francis Schools sfschools.net • Looking at schools can be similar to looking at homes. Parents should make a list of “must-haves” and “don’t wants” and use that list as a guide. • Know your child and their learning profile and pick the school that best fits the student. Don’t choose based on name or reputation alone. It may not be the right fit for your student. Andre Restifo, Director of Admission, Springmont School springmont.com • Prior to touring schools, you, as parents, should discuss and create a ‘wish list’ for your best-fit school. Do you agree on what kind of school you want for your child(ren)? Do you have the same goals in mind for their education? This will help you narrow your school search. • Look at a school’s mission statement and core values. This is beneficial in guiding families to a like-minded community. And when touring a school, look beyond the physical buildings and grounds and focus more on the students and atmosphere. Are students happy and engaged in their learning and activities? Holly Brannon, Director of Communications and Marketing, Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com
• Discover what sets the school apart. Ask questions about the mission and the heart of the school. What motivates their decisions and how does that affect who their students become after graduation? These are often the things that will point toward the school’s unique character and lasting impact. • Use the admissions office. Admissions offices are here to help you navigate this process. The admissions team should be a reflection of the community and a glimpse into the life of the school. The heart of our admissions office at Whitefield Academy is that families would feel known and connected. The admissions office holds a unique role as both an advocate for the school and advocate for the prospective families. Nicole Hankamer, Director of Admissions, The Wood Acres School woodacresschool.org • Research the private school website and social media pages and schedule a campus tour as soon as you know you will be moving to the area. Visit the campus to get a good feel of the school community and meet the administration staff. Peek inside classrooms, meet the teachers and ask to see a copy of the curriculum. Bring your students with you on the tour. • Apply to private school early in the fall or the winter. Spring is when decisions are made. However, if you are moving in the summer, there may still be a spot left for your student. Call the school directly to see if applications are still being accepted. Gather all important documents when you start to apply. Families that are prepared with documents in hand help speed up the application process.
SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 55
LUMPKIN PICKENS
KNOWATLANTA GUIDE TO METRO ATLANTA PRIVATE SCHOOLS DAWSON CHEROKEE
26 15
FORSYTH Canton
BARTOW
Cumming
Cartersville
HALL
18
28
Acworth 23 Kennesaw
11
27
35
COBB
Marietta
Powder Springs
37
GWINNETT
Duluth
21
1
316
Norcross
Sandy Dunwoody Springs 22 Doraville 32
BARROW
Dacula Lawrenceville
29 Chamblee
Smyrna
Austell
3
7
31
Dallas
JACKS Suwanee
400
Roswell 8
10 20
Buford
14 Alpharetta
19
Woodstock
PAULDING
Gainesville
24 12
34 Mableton
30 17 33
Tucker
9 4
13
6
25
Atlanta
WALTON
Snellville
Stone Mountain
2
5
Lilburn
Loganville
DEKALB
Monroe
Decatur
Douglasville
Lithonia
DOUGLAS
ROCKDALE
East Point College Park
36
Forest Park
FULTON
Morrow
Union City Fairburn 16
COWETA
Conyers
Hapeville
CLAYTON
FAYETTE
Jonesboro
HENRY
Fayetteville
1. The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy
14. King’s Ridge Christian School
2. Annunciation Day School
15. Lakeview Academy
3. Atlanta Academy
Peachtree City16. Landmark Christian School
4. Atlanta Girl’s School Newnan
NEWTON
Stockbridge
McDonough 27. Saint Francis School
28. Saint Francis High School 29. Springmont School
17. Lovett School
30. Trinity School
5. Atlanta International School
18. Lyndon Academy
31. The Walker School
6. Atlanta Speech School
19. Mill Springs Academy
32. Wesleyan School
7. Brandon Hall School
20. Mount Paran Christian School
33. Westminster
8. The Cottage School
21. Mount Pisgah Christian School
34. Whitefield Academy
9. The Galloway School
22. The Mount Vernon School
35. The Wood Acres School
10. GRACEPOINT School
23. North Cobb Christian School
36. Woodward Academy Main Campus
11. High Meadows School
24. Pace Academy
37. Woodward Academy North Campus
12. Holy Spirit Preparatory School
25. The Paideia School
13. The Howard School
26. Riverside Military Academy
56 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
EDUCATION
Above and Beyond ATLANTA’S HIGHER EDUCATION CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS SHARPEN SKILLS FOR STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONALS By Ken Abramczyk
M
etro Atlantans looking to boost their careers, strength-
increases students’ marketability. He explains, “Earning these
en their knowledge, and upgrade their skills can obtain
certificates provides an opportunity to differentiate yourself in an
certifications from colleges and universities throughout
increasingly competitive global market by adding new knowl-
Georgia. Many certification programs are embedded as part of
edge and skills to your tool box, as well as demonstrating your
undergraduate and graduate degree programs, allowing students
commitment to professional and continuous development.”
or professionals of all ages and at all stages looking to advance
Georgia colleges and universities offer a variety of programs
their careers to earn certifications to show that they have ob-
both online and in-person. While some certification programs
tained a higher level of education or completed training for skills
are embedded as part of a degree program, schools offer many
in demand.
certifications that are non-degree as well. Here, we look at several
Sheb True, associate vice provost for global engagement,
local institutions that offer a variety of options, which each boast
professional education and strategic initiatives at Kennesaw State
their own applications requirements and deadlines, costs and
University, says that earning professional education certificates
program durations.
58 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Life University life.edu/academic-pages/post-graduate/ online-certificate-courses/ Life University offers four online certification programs geared towards chiropractors: applied clinical neuroscience, ergonomics, spinal hygienist and proficiency in pediatric and family chiropractic, all of which are obtained
Kennesaw State University
through a neurotonal pediatric adjusting seminar. The certificate in applied clinical neuroscience provides an in-depth review of the nervous system and helps deepen
scientists over the next few years, accord-
Kennesaw State University
the students’ understanding of the brain
ing to one survey. The disruptive inno-
learnonline/kennesaw/edu/
and nervous system.
vation and entrepreneurship certificate
online-programs/certificates.php
Program costs range from $1,895 to
allows students to design value proposi-
$3,500. Students commit to 50 hours of
tions, develop viable business models and
Kennesaw State University (KSU) offers
training for ergonomics, 80 hours toward
create pitches for investors. The Fintech
several online certificates, ranging from
the neurotonal pediatrics, 100 hours for
(financial technology) innovation certif-
cybersecurity to Six Sigma Green Belt
the applied clinical neuroscience or six
icate, consisting of two courses over two
(noting a professional who is well-versed
weeks for spinal hygienist.
semesters, examines Fintech and how it
in the Six Sigma process improvement
impacts the financial services field. With
methodology) at the undergraduate level
Georgia State University
Atlanta-based companies handling 70
and applied peacebuilding to teacher
robinson.gsu.edu/masters-programs/
percent of the credit, debit and prepaid
leadership at the graduate level.
flexible-graduate-certificate/
card sales in the U.S., Fintech innovation
With a nationwide need for increased
expects to help add to the skill sets for
cybersecurity at companies and organiza-
Graduate students who want to embed
employees to fill the need in this growing
tions, students can address that need by
a certification in a current Master’s
field.
earning certificates through one of two
program or add one to a Master’s degree
These certifications range from $4,508
programs: cybersecurity or information
to be earned at a later date can enroll
per semester for Georgia residents for the
security and assurance. Cybersecurity
in programs at the Robinson School of
artificial intelligence business innovation
certification is geared toward students
Business at Georgia State University.
option to $8,912 for non-residents along
interested in the security of computer
with a $250 non-refundable application
networks and systems and its application
fee.
in technology, while information security
Students can earn certification in innovation by taking four classes over two semesters. The artificial intelligence innovation certificate was designed for graduates and citizen data scientists, highlighting AI-related concepts and discovering innovative solutions to business problems. This certificate helps address the need for citizen data scientists, a field that is expected to grow five times faster than the number of current expert data
Life University offers four online certification programs geared towards chiropractors: applied clinical neuroscience, ergonomics, spinal hygienist and proficiency in pediatric and family chiropractic. SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 59
and assurance allow students to add a credential to degrees in information security, criminal justice or business. Undergraduate students also can earn other certificates in geographic information services, high performance comput-
EDUCATION
ing, logistics, production design and Six Sigma Green Belt.
At Mercer University, students who want to become teachers or look to advance their teaching credentials can enroll in the graduate certificate programs through the College of Professional Advancement and initial teacher certification-only coursework through the College of Education.
Graduate programs include applied peacebuilding, digital and social media, online teaching, special education, com-
the College of Professional Advancement
University of Georgia
puter science foundations, data analytics
and initial teacher certification-only
grad.uga.edu/index.php/degrees/
and intelligent technology, health infor-
coursework through the College of Edu-
certificates/
mation technology, software engineering,
cation. Students can obtain initial teacher
information security and assurance,
certification through the Tift College
The University of Georgia (UGA) extends to
quality assurance, enterprise IT manage-
of Education’s Bachelor of Science in
students many graduate certificates, ranging
ment, independent and charter school
Education with undergrad programs for
from African American studies to women’s
leadership and more.
working adults and residential programs.
studies. Ron Walcott, dean of graduate
Teacher certification is also available at
school and vice provost of graduate educa-
the graduate level.
tion at UGA, says the graduate certificates
KSU’s certificate programs are customized to each particular field of study, so the costs and length of the programs vary.
Graduate non-degree programs
are part of the university’s broader mission
Some certificate programs follow KSU’s
include a graduate certificate program
to elevate graduate education at UGA. “Our
academic calendar, while others can start
through the College of Professional
graduate certificates allow students to pursue
at any time during the year.
Advancement and endorsement pro-
focused training in areas of expertise that
grams for certified teachers through the
complement their degree programs,” he
College of Education. Teachers can earn
says. “Additionally, they offer flexible options
mercer.edu/admissions/certificate-non-
endorsements to specialize in various
for students and working professionals to
degree-programs/
topics, including autism, gifted students,
quickly customize their skill sets and provide
Mercer University
K-5 math, K-5 science, reading, STEM
credentials that confer a competitive edge in
At Mercer University, students who want
and others. Mercer also offers graduate
the job market.”
to become teachers or look to advance
certificate programs through its College
their teaching credentials can enroll in
of Nursing, School of Business, School of
graduate atmospheric sciences program,
the graduate certificate programs through
Engineering and School of Theology.
which offers certification to students
One example of these programs is the
for in-depth study and research in the atmospheric sciences. The program is an opportunity to document their educational achievement and experiences in the atmospheric sciences beyond their graduate major. UGA touts another graduate certificate in interdisciplinary qualitative studies as among the oldest and most reputable in the world. This certificate emphasizes a qualitative approach, improving professional practice and scholarship through collaboration and critical self-reflection, honoring diversity through the active inclusion of University of Georgia
60 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
members of university disciplines and cultures of today’s society.
n
GET TO KNOW METRO ATLANTA’S COUNTIES The Counties of Metro Atlanta
Fannin
According to the Atlanta Regional Commission, the 20-county Atlanta
a dozen of the most sought-after counties in metro Atlanta. You’ll learn
Union
Whitfield
region will be home to more than eight million people by the year 2040. Murray
about each county’s proximity to the city of Atlanta, basic facts, the major
The counties that comprise the area are as distinctive as the people who live
cities and neighborhoods, school information and more. Consider it your
Walker within them, as each one has its own personality, features andGilmer resources.
primer for getting to know Atlanta and its beautiful communities. When
In the pages that follow, KNOWAtlanta will introduce you to more than
you relocate, all of the information you need is right here at your fingertips. Habersham
White
Lumpkin
Chattooga
Stephens
Gordon
Pickens Dawson
Lake Sydney Lanier
Banks
Floyd
Forsyth Bartow
Franklin
Hall
Cherokee
CARTERSVILLE FLOWERY BRANCH
Allatoona Lake
WOODSTOCK
Fulton
BRASELTON JOHNS CREEK
SUWANEE
ROSWELL
KENNESAW
Polk
Cobb
DULUTH
SANDY SPRINGS DORAVILLE CHAMBLEE BROOKHAVEN
SMYRNA
Haralson
Barrow
Oconee
LILBURN
Atlanta
Walton
DeKalb Douglas Fulton
Carroll
EAST POINT
UNION CITY
Greene FOREST PARK
Clayton
Rockdale STOCKBRIDGE
Heard
Morgan Newton
Henry
Fayette Coweta
Clarke
Gwinnett
DUNWOODY NORCROSS
Paulding
Jackson
ALPHARETTA
PEACHTREE CITY
Jasper Spalding
Putnam
Butts
METRO ATLANTA HIGHWAYS Interstate 75 I-75 runs northwest to southeast straight through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 20 I-20 is a major artery running east to west through the City of Atlanta.
Interstate 85 I-85 runs northeast to southwest and converges with I-75 to form the Downtown Connector.
Interstate 285 Known as “The Perimeter,” this interstate loop encircles Atlanta and connects I-75, I-85 and I-20 to the city.
Georgia State Route 400 GA 400 runs north to south through the north-central suburbs of Atlanta and is concurrent with U.S. Route 19.
Interstate 575 I-575 is a 30-mile spur route that branches off of I-75 and traverses the northwestern suburbs.
Interstate 675 This auxiliary highway runs through the southeast part of metro Atlanta connecting Stockbridge to I-285. SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 61
Bartow County CITIES OF BARTOW:
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Bartow County Schools bartow.k12.ga.us
Adairsville
Bartow
White
Cartersville City Schools cartersvilleschools.org
Kingston
Atlanta
Euharlee Taylorsville
Distance from Cartersville to Downtown Atlanta 43 Miles Distance from Cartersville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 53 Miles POPULATION 106,408 MEDIAN HOME PRICE $250,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE bartowga.org Bartow County features the best parts of big city life and small-town living with Civil War and Native American sites, excellent dining experiences, a business-friendly economy, unmatched arts, shopping and excellent educational opportunities.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Shaw Industries Group, Inc. Voestalpine Automotive Components Toyo Tires Cartersville Medical Center Anheuser-Busch Trinity Rail
ATTRACTIONS: • • • • •
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map.
Cartersville Emerson
Adairsville adairsvillega.net Recognized as one of the safest cities in Georgia, Adairsville was the first town in Georgia to be placed on the National Register of Historic Places in its entirety. Cartersville cityofcartersville.org Offering access to an array of North Georgia’s natural wonders and a beautiful historic downtown, Cartersville blends the best of yesterday and today. Emerson cityofemerson.org This growing city is quickly becoming one of the nation’s hot spots for youth travel sports thanks to the LakePoint Sports Complex, which spans 1,300 acres. Euharlee euharlee.com Euharlee is a small town located just west of Cartersville and home to the Euharlee Covered Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Georgia. Kingston cityofkingston.org Kingston is a city steeped in Antebellum history and keeps it alive through a variety of artifacts and photographs in two museums. Taylorsville Taylorsville is home to Plant Bowen, a coalfired power station that has the second largest generating capacity of any coal-fired power plant in North America. White cityofwhitega.com A bedroom community of neighboring Cartersville, White covers one square mile of land—referred to as “The Friendliest Mile in Georgia.”
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Cartersville Electric System cityofcartersville.org Cobb EMC cobbemc.com Greystone Power Corporation greystonepower.com WATER City of Cartersville cityofcartersville.org Bartow County bartowga.org
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Red Top Mountain State Park Tellus Science Museum Booth Western Art Museum LakePoint Sports Complex Barnsley Resort
Booth Western Art Museum 62 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Red Top Mountain State Park
Downtown Cartersville
Cherokee County CITIES OF CHEROKEE : Waleska
Cherokee
Ball Ground
Canton
Atlanta
Holly Springs Woodstock
Distance from Canton to Downtown Atlanta 40 Miles Distance from Canton to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 50 Miles POPULATION: 254,149 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $399,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cherokeega.com Dubbed the place “Where Metro Meets the Mountains,” Cherokee County benefits from its status as a region that’s business savvy, environmentally alluring and undergoing tremendous growth.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • •
Georgia Northeastern Railroad Inalfa Roof Systems Pilgrim’s Pride Adidas Yanmar America
ATTRACTIONS: • • • • • •
Lake Allatoona Dixie Speedway Gibbs Gardens The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta Cherokee Arts Center Chukkar Farm Polo Club
Gibbs Gardens
Ball Ground cityofballground.com Ball Ground is a beautiful city in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains that’s home to quaint shops, eateries and a mix of residential options. Canton canton-georgia.com The county seat of Cherokee, Canton offers the perfect blend of historic charm and progressive opportunity, with a revitalized downtown that features a museum, arts center, heritage center and theater. Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us Recognized as one of the best places to raise a family in Georgia, Holly Springs is a beloved community that also was named the number three city for new families in the U.S. by Pennygeeks.com. Nelson nelsongeorgia.com Located in both Cherokee and Pickens counties, Nelson was established in 1891 and is the “First Georgia Marble City.” Waleska cityofwaleska.com Home to Reinhardt University, Waleska is a small community alive with industry, including the lumber and agriculture businesses. Woodstock woodstockga.gov Once a farming village, Woodstock has transformed into a bustling and diverse community with a revitalized downtown, a worldclass trail system and excellent shopping and dining options.
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cherokee County Schools cherokee.k12.ga.us
Canton
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. Lyndon Academy lyndonacademy.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Reinhardt University reinhardt.edu
UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Windstream windstream.com ETC Communications etcnow.com Nelson-Ball Ground Telephone (770) 735-2000 ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Amicalola EMC amicalolaemc.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com WATER Cherokee County Water Authority ccwsa.com City of Ball Ground Cityofballground.com City of Canton canton-georgia.com City of Holly Springs hollyspringsga.us City of Waleska cityofwaleska.com City of Woodstock woodstockga.gov
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Woodstock SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 63
Clayton County • The Beach at Clayton County International Park • Atlanta State Farmers Market • Georgia Archives
CITIES OF CLAYTON: Atlanta
Forest Park Lake City Morrow Riverdale Jonesboro
Clayton Lovejoy
POPULATION: 289,615 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $200,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 8% ONLINE claytoncountyga.gov Located 30 minutes south of Atlanta, Clayton County offers easy access to Interstates 75, 85, 285 and 675, along with rail service from Norfolk Southern and CSX and HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport. It is the only county in the Atlanta area to be classified as a Foreign Trade Zone.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Southern Regional Medical Center FedEx Ground Clayton State University Gate Gourmet Chime Solutions Fresh Express
ATTRACTIONS: • Porsche Cars North American Experience Center • Road to Tara Museum • Clayton County Performing Arts Center
Lake City 64 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Clayton County Schools clayton.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Distance from Jonesboro to Downtown Atlanta 18 Miles Distance from Jonesboro to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles
Riverdale riverdalega.gov Riverdale is located only about five miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and serves more than 14,000 residents, deeming it the second largest city in the county.
Forest Park forestparkga.org Forest Park was originally founded by farming families with an influx of railroad employees, but today is home to more than 20,000 people and has become a viable center for commerce. Jonesboro jonesboroga.com The county seat of Clayton, Jonesboro is known as the official “home” of Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With the Wind” and maintains its historic atmosphere with stately homes and beautiful landscapes.
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Clayton State University clayton.edu
UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Lake City lakecityga.net Lake City’s pride and joy is the Lake City Community Center, a nearly 5,000-squarefoot multi-use facility designed for weddings, birthday parties, reunions and city meetings.
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET
Lovejoy cityoflovejoy.com Lovejoy, known as “The City of Peace,” is growing rapidly but strives to maintain the small-town community atmosphere that continues to attract residents and businesses.
Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H
Morrow cityofmorrow.com Morrow is home to Clayton State University, the Southeast Region Branch of the U.S. Archives, the Georgia Archives, Reynolds Nature Preserve and Spivey Hall, a stunning performance center.
Clayton County Water Authority ccwa.us
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport
Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Central GA EMC cgemc.com WATER
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Porshe Experience Center
Cobb County ATTRACTIONS: • • • • Cobb
Atlanta
Truist Park/The Battery Atlanta Six Flags Over Georgia/White Water Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History • Silver Comet Trail • Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
CITIES OF COBB: Acworth Kennesaw
Marietta
Distance from Marietta to Downtown Atlanta 20 Miles Distance from Marietta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 30 Miles POPULATION 756,865 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $379,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE cobbcounty.org Long regarded as one of the best places to live in metro Atlanta, Cobb County captures the best of all worlds with growing businesses, neighborhoods and more just beyond the I-285 Perimeter. It provides easy access to recreation and entertainment opportunities, as well as a thriving commercial center.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • • •
WellStar Health System Cobb County School District Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company The Home Depot RaceTrac Petroleum Aaron’s Inc. Genuine Parts Company
Truist Park
Power Springs
Smyrna
Austell
Powder Springs cityofpowdersprings.org The town motto, “Small enough to know you, large enough to serve you,” speaks volumes about Powder Springs. Once a gold mining town, the city now boasts several parks, as well as a museum that chronicles its rich history. Smyrna smyrna.ga.us One of the fastest-growing cities in metro Atlanta, the “Jonquil City” is home to a wealth of family-friendly neighborhoods, upscale dining establishments, pristine public parks and a vibrant Village Green.
NEIGHBORHOODS OF COBB: Cumberland Situated 10 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta, this unincorporated community serves as the region’s fifth largest business district and is home to the Atlanta Braves’ Truist Park. Mableton At more than 20 square miles, Mableton is the largest unincorporated community in the metro area, as well as the hometown of former Georgia Governor Roy Barnes.
Acworth acworth.org Known as “The Lake City,” Acworth makes good use of its prime location on the banks of Lake Acworth with a full calendar of events centered around the water.
Vinings Unincorporated Vinings has become a go-to spot for a city-meets-the-suburbs experience, with upscale boutiques, exceptional restaurants and the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
Austell austellga.gov Although it’s located just 18 miles from Downtown Atlanta, Austell’s revitalized downtown and population of just over 7,000 still give it a small-town feel.
EDUCATION:
Kennesaw kennesaw-ga.gov Kennesaw is a bustling business center in Cobb County known as a great place to raise a family, while also being home to more than 5,000 companies and Kennesaw State University. Marietta mariettaga.gov Historic Marietta Square serves as the city center for this vibrant and ever-growing community, boasting quaint shops, delectable eateries, numerous museums, green space and more.
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Cobb County Schools cobb.k12.org Marietta City Schools marietta-city.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. GRACEPOINT School gracepointschool.org Mount Paran Christian School mtparanschool.org North Cobb Christian School ncchrisitan.org The Walker School thewalkerschool.org
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 65
Cobb County Whitefield Academy whitefieldacademy.com The Wood Acres School woodacresschool.org
UTILITIES:
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Chattahoochee Technical College chattahoocheetech.edu Kennesaw State University kennesaw.edu Life University life.edu
Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H
Marietta
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com
ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Acworth Power acworth.org Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Marietta Power mariettaga.gov WATER Cobb County Water System cobbcounty.org Marietta Water marietta.gov
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Vinings
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KNOWAtlanta.com/publications 66 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
DeKalb County • DeKalb Medical Center • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
ATTRACTIONS: Atlanta DeKalb
• • • • • •
Stone Mountain Park Fernbank Museum DeKalb Farmers Market Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Eddie’s Attic Arabi Mountain
CITIES OF DEKALB: Dunwoody
Distance from Decatur to Downtown Atlanta 7 Miles Distance from Decatur to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 17 Miles POPULATION: 756,558 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $359,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE dekalbcountyga.gov Access to suburban settings, a fast-paced city lifestyle, hip locales and one of the region’s most diverse populations makes DeKalb County a popular option for young professionals, students and established business executives. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies with a presence in Atlanta also have operations in DeKalb.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • •
Emory Healthcare Delta Air Lines UPS AT&T Mobility
Fernbank Museum
Doraville Chamblee Brookhaven Tucker Clarkston Decatur
Stone Mountain
Pine Lake Avondale Estates
Chamblee chambleega.com Chamblee is a vibrant city with a diverse community and plenty of international flair, with the Southeast’s only Chinatown and the Chamblee Motor Mile, a large antique district. Clarkston clarkstonga.gov Clarkston, known as a welcoming walking and biking community, is noted for its diversity, having been named “The Most Diverse Square Mile in America” by Time Magazine. Decatur decaturga.com Decatur Square is a hub for “indie” boutiques and galleries, as well as trendy restaurants and pubs that attract foodies for some of the best culinary experiences in metro Atlanta. Doraville doravillega.us With one of the largest concentrations of midcentury modern homes in metro Atlanta and located where interstates 285 and 85 meet, the city of Doraville is convenient for Atlanta commuters. Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov Dunwoody is a bona fine shopping, dining and cultural hotspot in metro Atlanta, making it a
Lithonia
Stonecrest
Avondale Estates avondaleestates.org Known for its close-knit community, beautiful setting and diverse architectural styles, Avondale Estates has a large number of local businesses operated from homes and shops in the commercial district. Brookhaven brookhavenga.com The urban town center of Brookhaven on Dresden Drive features many mixed-use developments and is bordered by residential neighborhoods.
Decatur
Avondale Estates SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 67
DeKalb County popular travel destination for both business and leisure. Lithonia cityoflithoniaga.org Made up of less than one square mile, Lithonia includes some of the most affluent neighborhoods in DeKalb County. Pine Lake pinelakega.sophicity.com Pine Lake, the smallest city in DeKalb, is a community close to nature, where residents treasure and work diligently to protect the environment. Stonecrest stonecrestga.gov Stonecrest is the first majority-black city to form from the cityhood movement in DeKalb County, achieving its official status in 2017. Stone Mountain stonemountaincity.org Nestled on the west side of Stone Mountain Park, the City of Stone Mountain is known as a family-friendly place to visit and live. Tucker tuckerga.gov One of the largest and oldest unincorporated communities in Georgia, Tucker welcomes visitors year-round to its revitalized Main Street for outdoor events, activities and more.
NEIGHBORHOODS OF DEKALB: Candler Park candlerpark.org Candler Park is an area that hosts fancifully painted houses with yards, quirky shops and restaurants. Druid Hills Druid Hills is a beautiful urban neighborhood that is often referred to as Atlanta’s “second suburb” and boasts four National Register of Historic Places districts. East Atlanta The charm of East Atlanta is its ability to be eclectic and edgy, while also comfortably suburban. Edgewood Edgewood’s unique housing, booming retail and entertainment sectors and diverse residents contribute to its vibrancy. Kirkwood historic-kirkwood.org Kirkwood is home to an array of quirky, locally owned shops, galleries, unique restaurants and more, as well as the Kirkwood Historic District.
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS DeKalb County Schools dekalbschoolsga.org City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. Annunciation Day School annunciationdayschool.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu DeVry University devry.edu Emory University emory.edu
UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Walton EMC waltonemc.com
Emory University
WATER DeKalb County Water System dekalbcountyga.gov
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Concourse at Landmark Center , Dunwoody
Douglas County Atlanta Douglas
ATTRACTIONS:
EDUCATION:
• • • • • •
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Douglas County Schools dcssga.org
Sweetwater Creek State Park Clinton Nature Preserve Boundary Waters Recreational Complex O’Neal Plaza Ben’s Antique Mall L&R Alpaca Haven Farm
CITIES OF DOUGLAS: Lithia Springs Villa Rica
UTILITIES:
Douglasville
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Distance from Douglasville to Downtown Atlanta 27 Miles
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com
Distance from Douglasville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 23 Miles POPULATION: 145,331 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $270,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE celebrateddouglascounty.com With the lowest property taxes in the metro area and an energetic business environment to boot, Douglas County is an ideal place to work and live, and it’s located just 20 minutes from Downtown Atlanta.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • •
WellStar Douglas Hospital Silver Line Building Products APL Logistics Wal-Mart Kroger
Sweetwater Creek State Park
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Douglasville douglasvillega.gov Downtown Douglasville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because of its rich Victorian, Romanesque and Queen Anne-style buildings and has become a destination for specialty shops and restaurants. Lithia Springs The crown jewel of this charming unincorporated community is Sweetwater Creek State Park, which is home to the ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company, a textile mill that was burned during the Civil War. Villa Rica villarica.org Villa Rica is home to the first gold strike in the United States and an historic downtown that has maintained authentic architecture, including Wick’s Tavern, the oldest commercial structure in West Georgia.
ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com WATER Douglasville-Douglas County Water & Sewer Authority ddcwsa.com
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Foxhall Resort SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 69
Fayette County • • • • •
Atlanta
Holliday-Dorsey-Fife Museum Line Creek Nature Area The City Gardens of Southern Oaks Georgia Renaissance Festival Serenbe Farms
Fayettville
Fayette
Peachtree City Woolsey
Distance from Fayetteville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 15 Miles POPULATION: 113,459 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $407,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE fayettecountyga.gov Fayette County combines rural beauty and urban convenience with a rich history and offers residents a variety of amenities and recreational activities, as well as the highest net worth index in the State of Georgia.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Panasonic Automotive Systems Co. Eaton Lighting Solutions Hoshizaki America Inc. Osmose Utility Services Inc. Ply Gem Industries Inc.–Window Division Gerresheimer–Peachtree City LP
ATTRACTIONS:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fayette County Schools fcboe.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map.
CITIES OF FAYETTE: Tyrone
Distance from Fayetteville to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles
EDUCATION:
Brooks
Brooks brooksga.com Brooks is well-known for its friendly people, active churches, wholesome and casual outdoor lifestyle and pastoral wide open spaces. Fayetteville fayetteville-ga.gov Fayetteville has been recognized as one of the best towns in Georgia for young families, according to NerdWallet.com, as well as one of the best suburbs for retirement, according to Forbes. Peachtree City peachtree-city.org Georgia’s oldest and largest master-planned community, Peachtree City features a sprawling network of golf cart paths and family-friendly neighborhoods that are home to residents who enjoy a small-town feel near a global hub. Tyrone tyrone.org A high priority on finding a balance between smart economic development and functional green spaces in this small town of 7,000 people. Woolsey woolseyga.com The smallest town in Fayette County, Woolsey is primarily a residential community that offers a pastoral setting with quaint shops and small businesses.
Landmark Christian School landmarkchristianschool.org To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Coweta-Fayette EMC utility.org WATER Fayette County Water fayettecountyga.gov/water
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• Atlanta Regional Airport • Old Fayette County Courthouse
Trilith Studios
Trilith 70 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Peachtree City
Forsyth County Forsyth
Atlanta
ATTRACTIONS:
UTILITIES:
• • • • • •
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Sawnee Mountain Preserve Big Creek Greenway Cumming Fairgrounds Kinsey Family Farm Cumming Aquatic Center and Water Park Buford Dam
CITIES OF FORSYTH:
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Sawnee EMC sawnee.com
Cumming
Distance from Cumming to Downtown Atlanta 38 Miles Distance from Cumming to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 49 Miles POPULATION: 236,612 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $479,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE forsythco.com Forsyth County has been recognized as the 13th wealthiest county in the nation, as well as the seventh-fastest growing county nationwide by Forbes magazine, largely due to the 8,000-plus businesses in the community.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Scientific Games International Inc. Northside Hospital-Forsyth Tyson Foods, Inc. Siemens Industry, Inc. Koch Foods Walmart
Cumming cityofcumming.net Cumming, the county seat of Forsyth, became one of metro Atlanta’s most popular commuter towns upon the completion of Georgia State Route 400 and continues to experience impressive growth year after year, welcoming both new residents and businesses regularly.
WATER City of Cumming Water Department cummingutilities.com Forsyth County Water forsythco.com
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EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Forsyth County Schools forsyth.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
HALCYON
Big Creek Greenway
Cumming Fairgrounds SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 71
Fulton County • High Museum of Art • The Fox Theatre • Ponce City Market
CITIES OF FULTON: Atlanta Fulton
South Fulton
Distance from Atlanta to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 10 Miles POPULATION: 1.05 million MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $400,000 COMBINES SALES TAX RATE 8.9% ONLINE fultoncountyga.gov Stretching across the heart of metro Atlanta, Fulton County is broken up into several main areas and offers an array of options for its more than one million residents. The county is home to an ever-growing economy, thriving industries, renowned universities, significant cultural opportunities and much more.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Delta Air Lines UPS Emory Healthcare The Home Depot Piedmont Healthcare Publix Super Markets
ATTRACTIONS: • • • • • •
Mercedes-Benz Stadium The Georgia Aquarium Atlanta Botanical Garden Centennial Olympic Park Zoo Atlanta Piedmont Park
Mercedes-Benz Stadium 72 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Atlanta atlantaga.gov As the Peach State’s capitol and county seat of Fulton, Atlanta serves as the regional, national and global headquarters for many Fortune 500 and 1000 corporations. Alpharetta alpharetta.ga.us Named one of the best suburbs to live in Georgia by Niche.com, Alpharetta offers a full spectrum of attractions, excellent schools, sensible housing costs and growing industries. Johns Creek johnscreekga.gov Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Johns Creek’s beautiful landscape offers additional aesthetic appeal to an already beautiful metropolis. Milton cityofmiltonga.us A highly affluent city, Milton strives to maintain its rural heritage while looking to the future and offering residents an exceptional quality of life. Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com Mountain Park is an officially designated wildlife refuge that protects all wildlife, including birds, animals and reptiles — some rare. Roswell roswellgov.com With 13 parks, many well-preserved historical sites and a ranking as the 14th safest city in Georgia, Roswell is a family-oriented community. Sandy Springs sandyspringsga.gov Located just outside of the 285 perimeter, Sandy Springs is the second largest city in the
Ponce City Market
metro Atlanta area and offers varied real estate options, competitive schools, outstanding outdoor recreation and more. South Fulton cityofsouthfulton.gov South Fulton elected its first mayor in March 2017 after the Georgia General Assembly voted in 2016 to approve the creation of this new city. Chattahoochee Hills chatthillsga.us Chattahoochee Hills is home to Serenbe, an agrarian community that is close to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport and makes it the ideal place to live, work and play. College Park collegeparkga.com Top employers in College Park include the Federal Aviation Administration and Woodward Academy, one of metro Atlanta’s top-performing independent schools. East Point eastpointcity.org In recent years, East Point has flourished due to its proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, restaurants, hotels and shopping. Fairburn fairburn.com Fairburn has a rich cultural heritage enjoyed by residents and visitors alike and has the feel of a city coupled with small-town sensibilities. Hapeville hapeville.org Hapeville is home to the busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, as well as being the location for Delta Air Lines’ corporate headquarters. Palmetto cityofpalmetto.com Palmetto is located 25 miles south of Atlanta right on the former Atlanta and West Point Railroad, which is now owned by CSX Transportation. Union City unioncityga.org Some of Union City’s leading national firms include Newell Rubbermaid, General Electric, Costco, Caterpillar, Dendreon and Kraft Foods.
INTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS:
Ansley Park ansleypark.org An affluent residential neighborhood, Ansley Park sits astride Peachtree Street and is adjacent to the famous Piedmont Park. Atlantic Station atlanticstation.com With countless choices for apartments, condos, homes and Class A office space, as well as entertainment opportunities, Atlantic Station is one of the area’s most popular live-work-play developments.
College Football Hall of Fame
Buckhead buckhead.com Buckhead is rich with elegant high-rise hotels and complexes, beautiful homes and mansions and is one of the city’s most attractive areas for business. Cabbagetown cabbagetown.com Many murals and street art pieces, maintained by the Living Walls Street Art Association, keep Cabbagetown’s love of the arts alive. Castleberry Hill castleberryhill.org Known as Atlanta’s historic creative district, Castleberry Hill is made up of early 20th century warehouse buildings that have been converted into lofts. Downtown atlantadowntown.com Downtown Atlanta is home to many corporate and regional headquarters, government facilities, sporting venues and Georgia State University. Grant Park grantpark.org Grant Park’s Victorian neighborhood is home to Zoo Atlanta, which welcomes almost one million visitors each year. Inman Park inmanpark.org Known for its shops, public parks and dedicated Tree Watch, Inman Park comes alive with festivals, parades and a focus on all things local. Little Five Points littlefivepoints.net Little Five Points (L5P) is known at Atlanta’s hippest neighborhood and a popular alternative shopping and dining destination with consignment and costume shops, a local co-op and a diverse range of eateries. Midtown midtownatl.com Home to more than 200 acres of parks and gardens, as well as restaurants and shops, Midtown Atlanta is considered the city’s center for the arts. Old Fourth Ward Known as one of Atlanta’s most historic neighborhoods and the home and resting place of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Old Fourth Ward has become a bustling and diverse district since the opening of Ponce City Market. Poncey-Highland ponceyhighland.org Poncey-Highland is rich with urban living, quality restaurants, shops and galleries, great schools and a variety of housing options. Virginia-Highland virginiahighland.com This vibrant neighborhood is a popular spot for Atlanta’s young professionals and families
thanks to its seven distinct commercial villages full of upscale shops, restaurants and pubs, nightlife and local entertainment.
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Fulton County Schools fultonschools.org Atlanta Public Schools atlantapublicschools.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. The Alfred & Adele Davis Academy davisacademy.org Atlanta Academy atlantaacademy.com
To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Clark Atlanta University cau.edu Emory University emory.edu Georgia Institute of Technology gatech.edu Georgia State University gsu.edu Morehouse College morehouse.edu Spelman College spelman.edu
Atlanta Girl’s School atlantagirlsschool.org
UTILITIES:
Atlanta International School aisschool.org
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Atlanta Speech School atlantaspeechschool.org Brandon Hall School brandonhall.org The Cottage School cottageschool.org Cumberland Academy of Georgia cumberlandacademy.org The Galloway School gallowayschool.org High Meadows School highmeadows.org The Howard School howardschool.org King’s Ridge Christian School kingsridgecs.org The Lovett School lovett.org Mill Springs Academy millsprings.org The Mount Vernon School mountvernonschool.org Pace Academy paceacademy.org Saint Francis Schools saintfrancisschools.com Springmont springmont.com Trinity School trinityatl.org Wesleyan School wesleyanschool.org
Midtown
Woodward Academy woodward.edu
Westminster Westminster.net
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company H georgiapower.com Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com City of College Park collegeparkga.com City of Fairburn fairburn.com City of Palmetto citypalmetto.com WATER Fulton County Water fultoncountyga.gov City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management atlantawatershed.org Mountain Park mountainparkgov.com Roswell Water Department roswellgov.com
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SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 73
Gwinnett County ATTRACTIONS:
Atlanta
Gwinnett
• • • • • •
Coolray Field Infinite Energy Center Lake Lanier Southeastern Railway Museum Freeman’s Mill Park Château Élan Winery & Resort
CITIES OF GWINNETT: Buford Sugar Hill Braselton Suwanee
Distance from Lawrenceville to Downtown Atlanta 31 Miles Distance from Lawrenceville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 42 Miles POPULATION: 927, 781 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $350,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 6% ONLINE gwinnettcounty.com Continually listed as one of Atlanta’s fastest-growing counties, Gwinnett County is prized for its access to bustling city life, booming communities, a nationally recognized school system and gorgeously maintained natural spaces. Only 30 minutes away from Downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett’s economic opportunities span far and wide for area workers.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Gwinnett County Public Schools Gwinnett County Government Publix Super Markets Gwinnett Health Care System Walmart Primerica Inc.
Suwanee 74 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Duluth Dacula Berkeley Lake Peachtree Corners Lawrenceville Norcross Lilburn
Grayson
Snellville Loganville
Berkeley Lake berkeley-lake.com In 2017, Berkley Lake was recognized among the Top 10 Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia by Niche.com. Braselton braselton.net Home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, Braselton rests in four counties, including Gwinnett, Hall, Jackson and Barrow. Buford cityofbuford.com A city where recreation and art abound, the streets of downtown Buford are filled with art shops that show off local talents in every medium. Dacula daculaga.gov Dacula is best known for its large Memorial Day Parade and Little Mulberry Park and has experienced immense growth over the years. Duluth duluthga.net Duluth is home to retail and cultural centers,
top-notch healthcare facilities and a high quality of life and was named the number six safest city in Georgia by the National Council for Home Safety and Security. Grayson cityofgrayspon.org Grayson is a popular city for families, with excellent schools, quality housing, parks, restaurants and plenty of shopping. Lawrenceville lawerencevillega.org Gwinnett’s oldest city, Lawrenceville’s mixture of recently established buildings co-exist with Antebellum homes, the town’s original square and the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Lilburn cityoflilburn.com Lilburn has a small-town, neighborly feel that sets it apart from other urban cities and was named the number one diverse place to live in Georgia by Niche.com Loganville loganville-ga.gov The unique blend of hometown feel combined with modern conveniences draws companies and organizations to open their doors and prosper in Loganville. Norcross norcrossga.net Norcross has restored many of the town’s historic sites to their full glory and boasts an array of businesses, restaurants and recreational venues that help the city remain dutifully progressive. Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov Known for its picturesque parks, lush green spaces and plenty of outdoor activity, Peachtree Corners offers residents unparalleled quality of life. Snellville snellville.org Snellville is a hub for arts and recreation, including the highly anticipated annual Snellville Days Festival, which draws crowds from all over the Southeast and has been ranked as one of the top 20 tourism events by the Southeastern Tourism Society. Sugar Hill cityofsugarhill.com Considered one of the premier communities in metro Atlanta, Sugar Hill is mere minutes away from Lake Sidney Lanier and the North Georgia Mountains. Suwanee suwanee.com With an array of housing options, the largest school system in Georgia, stellar green spaces, and more, Suwanee is a great place to work, play and live.
Château Élan Winery & Resort
EDUCATION:
UTILITIES:
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Gwinnett County Schools gwinnett.k12.ga.us Buford City Schools bufordcityschools.org
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Georgia Gwinnett College ggc.edu Gwinnett Technical College gwinnetttech.edu
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power H georgiapower.com Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com Walton EMC waltonemc.com
City of Buford cityofbuford.com City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org City of Norcross norcrossga.net WATER Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources gwinnettcounty.com City of Buford Water Department Cityofbuford.sophcity.com City of Lawrenceville lawrencevillega.org City of Norcross norcrossga.net City of Loganville Loganville-ga.gov
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BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Chattahoochee River
Georgia Gwinnett College
Mall of Georgia SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 75
Hall County CITIES OF HALL:
for growth with a vision for the future known as “Oakwood 2030.” Clermont
Hall
Lula
Atlanta
Gainesville
Oakwood Flowery Branch Braselton
Distance from Gainesville to Downtown Atlanta 54 Miles Distance from Gainesville to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 64 Miles POPULATION: 202,148 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $339,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE hallcounty.org Bordered by the beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hall County is a vibrant, growing and diverse community that offers an unparalleled quality of life and a sound economic base for business and industry.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • •
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Hall County School System Fieldale Farms Corporation Kubota Manufacturing of America Victory Processing LLC
ATTRACTIONS: • • • • • •
Château Élan Winery & Resort Road Atlanta Lake Lanier Islands and Golf Resort Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Gainesville Buford Corn Maze Northeast Georgia History Center
Lake Lanier 76 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
Braselton braselton.net Braselton spans four counties, including Barrow, Gwinnett, Hall and Jackson, and is home to Château Élan Winery & Resort, which attracts more than half a million visitors each year. Buford cityofbuford.com Home to more than 12,000 residents, Buford sits on the Hall-Gwinnett line with residents, employees and students from both counties. Buford is situated at the southern tip of Lake Lanier at Buford Dam. Clermont clermontga.com The rural farming community of Clermont comprises a total area of three square miles and is known for its many festivals that are held throughout the year. Flowery Branch flowerybranchga.org Flowery Branch is home to the Atlanta Falcons Training Complex and a revitalized historic downtown area known as Old Town. Gainesville gainesville.org As the county seat, Gainesville serves as the business, government and cultural center of the region with a daytime population of more than 150,000 commuters. Gillsville gillsvillega.com Gillsville is known for its iconic Hewell’s Pottery shop that began operating in 1850 as a family venture and is celebrated during an annual festival. Lula cityoflula.com Lula spans two counties, Hall and Banks, and once a railroad hub, it is well known today for its annual Railroad Days Festival. Oakwood cityofoakwood.net With more than 60 percent growth in the last 15 years, Oakwood city leaders are planning
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Hall County Schools hallco.org Gainesville City Schools gcssk12.net PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. Lakeview Academy lakeviewacademy.com Riverside Military Academy riversidemilitary.com To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org. MAJOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES Brenau University breneau.edu Lanier Technical College laniertech.edu
UTILITIES: NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Jackson EMC jacksonemc.com Sawnee EMC sawnee.com WATER Gainesville Water Dept. gainesville.org Flowery Branch City Hall flowerybranchga.org
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Atlanta Falcons Training Facility
Henry County • A rmy Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum • Southern Belle Farm
CITIES OF HENRY: Atlanta
UTILITIES: Stockbridge
McDonough
Henry
Hampton Locust Grove
Distance from McDonough to Downtown Atlanta 30 Miles Distance from McDonough to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles POPULATION: 230,220 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $299,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE co.henry.ga.us With Southern neighborhoods, a solid education system and plenty of recreational and economic opportunities, Henry offers something for everyone and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing counties in Georgia.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • • •
Piedmont Henry Hospital Federal Aviation Administration Henry County Schools Luxottica Retail Group Briggs & Stratton PVH Corp
ATTRACTIONS: • • • •
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Hampton hamptonga.gov Best known as home to the Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton has more visitors than any other city in the county, and races draw more visitors than any other sporting event in Georgia. Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov Located within 35 miles of Downtown Atlanta, Locust Grove offers a growing selection of retail, dining, lodging and business opportunities. McDonough mcdonoughga.org Attractions in this Civil War-era town include Southern Belle Farm, a 200-acre working farm with seasonal family activities like a corn maze, pumpkin patch and strawberry picking. Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com Known as the “Gateway to Henry County,” Stockbridge offers excellent economic opportunities and public services coupled with small town hospitality.
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com Spectrum spectrum.com ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company georgiapower.com H Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com Central Georgia EMC cgemc.com WATER Henry County Water Authority Hcwa.com City of Hampton hamptonga.gov City of Locust Grove locustgrove-ga.gov City of McDonough mcdonoughga.org City of Stockbridge cityofstockbridge.com
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EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Henry County Schools henry.k12.ga.us
Atlanta Motor Speedway Panola Mountain State Park Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary Cubihatcha Outdoor Center
Eagles Landing Country Club
Atlanta Motor Speedway
Panola State Park SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 77
Paulding County • The Dallas Theater • High Shoals Falls • Moonlight Stables Equestrian Center
CITIES OF PAULDING: Paulding
Braswell Dallas Hiram
Distance from Dallas to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 37 Miles POPULATION: 164,044 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $300,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE paulding.gov Once devoted to agriculture, including livestock, corn, oats, pecans and poultry, Paulding County has diversified and taken an industrial path in recent years, leading to substantial growth in the county.
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • •
WellStar Paulding Hospital Publix Super Markets The Kroger Company Interroll MDR Conveyers Walmart
ATTRACTIONS: • Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport • Silver Comet Trail • Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site
Silver Comet Trail 78 KNOWAtlanta SUMMER 2022
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity/Comcast xfinity.com AT&T att.com
Atlanta
Distance from Dallas to Downtown Atlanta 33 Miles
UTILITIES:
Braswell With city limits in both Polk and Paulding counties, Braswell is a rural community of less than 500 residents that welcomes bicyclists, joggers and walkers along the Silver Comet Trail. Dallas dallasga.gov Paulding’s county seat, Dallas is known for its quaint and friendly historic downtown community, as well as its reputation for being a great place to raise a family and start a business. Hiram cityofhiramga.gov Hiram was established in 1891 as a rural railroad town but has progressed into a commercial corridor for Paulding County with a downtown business district that offers dining, shopping and entertainment.
ELECTRICITY Georgia Power Company Georgiapower.com H Cobb EMC cobbemc.com GreyStone Power Corp. greystonepower.com Oglethorpe Power Corp. opc.com WATER Paulding County Water Department paulding.gov City of Dallas Water Department dallasga.gov/utilities
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EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Paulding County Schools paulding.k12.ga.us PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Hiram
WellStar Paulding Hospital
Rockdale County Atlanta
ATTRACTIONS:
UTILITIES:
• • • • • •
NATURAL GAS Georgia Natural Gas gng.com/knowatlanta H SCANA Energy scanaenergy.com H
Panola Mountain State Park Monastery of the Holy Spirit Georgia International Horse Park Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden The Dinky
CITIES OF ROCKDALE:
ELECTRICITY Georgia Power georgiapower.com H Snapping Shoals EMC ssemc.com
Rockdale
Conyers
Distance from Conyers to Downtown Atlanta 25 Miles
MAJOR EMPLOYERS: • • • • •
Pratt Industries Acuity Brands Lighting Hill-Phoenix Golden State Foods Rockdale Medical Center
WATER Rockdale Water Resources Rockdalecountyga.gov
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Distance from Conyers to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Int’l Airport 27 Miles POPULATION: 90,594 MEDIAN HOME PRICE: $270,000 COMBINED SALES TAX RATE 7% ONLINE rockdalecountyga.gov Despite being Georgia’s second smallest county, Rockdale County has experienced substantial growth in recent years. Twenty-five miles away from Downtown Atlanta, Rockdale offers commercial diversity for business and a variety of opportunities for families.
PHONE/CABLE/INTERNET Xfinity xfinity.com AT&T att.com
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Conyers conyersga.com Conyers is a combination of small town and big city, with rural scenes and urban shopping, and the community reflects an amazing legacy of progress, involvement and society.
EDUCATION: PUBLIC SCHOOLS Rockdale County Schools rockdaleschools.org PRIVATE SCHOOLS Turn to page 86 for the independent schools listing and a map. To view annual SAT scores by district and school, as well as Georgia Milestones scores, visit the Georgia Department of Education at gadoe.org.
Costly Mill Park
South Rockdale Community Park
Georgia Int’l Horse Park SUMMER 2022 KNOWAtlanta 79
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KNOWAtlanta.com For more than 30 years, KNOWAtlanta has been the premier source of information for those who are calling Atlanta home. With updated information on the cities and counties of the metro area and profiles on topics spanning education, health care, economics and housing, KNOWAtlanta’s point is clear: to keep you in the KNOW.
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NEW ATLANTANS LIKE TO SAVE MONEY.
Receive a $60 bill credit when you set up your new natural gas service with SCANA. To sign up, call 1-866-280-6236 and mention promo code MOVER60 or visit scanaenergy.com/MOVER60.
Limited time offer, available for new residential accounts only, subject to credit requirements. The offer is in the form of a one time $60 bill credit on the first bill. Offer not available in all locations. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Visit scanaenergy.com/mover60 for terms and conditions.
