Sara Haynes

Sara Haynes

Cobb County CIDs and Creative Community Development

Cobb County’s Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) are transforming the region through strategic enhancements in transportation, mobility, and accessibility.

When discussing the dynamic developments in Cobb County, the enthusiasm is palpable among the executive directors of the Cumberland, Town Center, and Gateway Marietta CIDs. These leaders are not only envisioning improvements for the next decade but are already executing a remarkable array of projects.

                         Understanding CIDs

CIDs are specially designated areas where local businesses voluntarily tax themselves to fund essential improvements. These include road construction, landscaping, signage, and public transit enhancements. The result? Increased property values and a higher quality of life for residents—all without imposing additional taxes on them. Over the past 36 years, the combined economic impact of CIDs in Cobb County has exceeded an astounding $23 billion, significantly boosting the tax base that supports the esteemed Cobb County public school system.

The overarching lesson from these districts is that the key to fostering a thriving business environment is creating a place where people want to work, visit, and live.

                   Collaboration for Growth

The CIDs work closely with various public entities, including Cobb County government, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), and the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), to implement large-scale projects. These initiatives range from highway access improvements to creating greenspaces and multi-use trails.

“CIDs have proven to be exceptional partners within the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI),” states Samyukth Shenbaga, ARC’s managing director of community development. The LCI promotes walkable communities and improved access to jobs and services. Recently, both the Cumberland and Town Center CIDs received significant LCI grants to enhance livability in their respective areas.

             Cumberland CID: A Hub of Activity

Covering 6.5 square miles, the Cumberland CID is home to major attractions such as Truist Park, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, and the Chattahoochee Nature Recreation Area. “Cumberland is a key job center,” notes Kim Menefee, executive director of the CID. “Our goal is to ensure accessibility for everyone, whether they arrive by car or on foot.”

With over 88,000 jobs, the Cumberland CID is currently enhancing its highway infrastructure. A reversible ramp from Interstate 75 to Akers Mill Road is under construction, providing safer access for commuters to the Cobb Galleria complex. This project is slated for completion by early 2025.

Since the Atlanta Braves' move to Cobb in 2013, development in the area has surged, with a 27% population increase in the last decade. “Cumberland is poised to become the next boomtown,” Menefee asserts, highlighting the influx of a younger, more diverse demographic.

To accommodate this shift, the CID has expanded its focus from merely improving access to enhancing travel between local attractions. Currently, there are plans for a comprehensive 60-mile trail network, with the final mile of the Bob Callan Trail set to connect the Chattahoochee River to the main business district by May 2025.

The upcoming 3-mile Cumberland Sweep project aims to facilitate “last mile connectivity,” allowing residents and visitors to explore the area via walking, biking, or the free Hopper shuttle.

             Town Center CID: Building a Future

The Town Center CID, established in 1997, spans 6.25 square miles and features Kennesaw State University, Town Center mall, and Cobb County International Airport. Over the past 15 years, jobs in the area have increased by 60%, spurred by rising housing costs that have drawn younger residents to the outskirts.

“What is a CID?” asks Tracy Styf, executive director of the Town Center CID. “I say the ‘C’ stands for community.” The CID not only competes for business investments but ensures that improvements align with local needs.

Innovative initiatives include the first lighted bridge and the first bikeshare program in Cobb County, as well as the establishment of a nonprofit partner, the Town Center Community Alliance, which helps diversify funding sources.

Ongoing projects, such as the South Barrett Parkway Reliever, aim to alleviate traffic congestion by 22% through enhanced infrastructure, including new sidewalks and bike lanes. The integration of smart technology into traffic signals is also planned to improve safety and efficiency.

            Gateway Marietta: A New Frontier

As the newest CID, Gateway Marietta focuses on revitalizing its business district, which spans 1.2 square miles. With over 6,000 businesses, particularly in technology and transportation, the CID aims to boost awareness of its potential as a prime business location.

“Our first priority is awareness,” says Caroline Whaley, executive director of Gateway Marietta CID. “We want people to recognize Gateway as a desirable business hub.” Recent projects have included significant landscaping improvements and the installation of public safety cameras, which have proven effective in reducing crime.

Upcoming initiatives will further enhance the district’s aesthetics and safety, creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

                A Unified Vision for the Future

The collaborative efforts of Cobb County’s CIDs are a testament to the power of community-driven development. By prioritizing accessibility, safety, and vibrancy, these districts are shaping a future that not only supports local businesses but also enriches the lives of residents and visitors.

As these initiatives unfold, it’s clear that great things are happening in Cobb County, fostering a sense of place that connects people to their communities—whether for work, leisure, or simply to enjoy the unique offerings of this vibrant region.

CATEGORIES: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FEATURES, METRO ATLANTA

Tags: Cobb County Chamber of Commerce, Cobb County CIDs, Cobb County DOT, Cobb County Transit, Coby County, South Cobb County

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