Frequently Asked Questions
What is the time horizon for town center development?
This is a 10 to 20-year effort that will occur in phases. The town center encompasses 192 acres of land with multiple private owners. The Town Center Vision and Plan is the blueprint and framework for the town center development, and City staff have started conversations with property owners, but ultimately the market and property owner decisions will drive the implementation of the plan.
Given Johns Creek Tech Park is an industrial park, how many acres out of the 192 acres are privately owned or used for a business purpose?
The City owns 27 acres, or 14%, of the land within the Town Center, and the rest is privately owned. City staff have met with several property and business owners and will continuously engage with them to build relationships, keep them informed, and get their buy-in on the Town Center Vision and Plan.
How do you address the issue/fact that all the property in the targeted area is currently owned and has existing uses?
The State Farm property and buildings, as well as others, are vacant; there is City-owned land and there are active, viable businesses. The Town Center Vision and Plan has set the framework for what the town center could look like and catalytic developments that can be initiated to spur change in the area. Please refer to Pages 184 – 199 of the Town Center Vision and Plan for Catalyst Sites and Pop-up Quick Hits.
How will we finance the Town Center?
There are many different funding strategies that can be used from a myriad of sources (the City, private sector, public-private partnerships, etc.). Please refer to Pages 202 – 215 of the Town Center Vision and Plan for more information.
Can we plan a public/private partnership to ensure we have a vibrant and economically viable town center?
There are a number of different ways to ensure a viable town center. Projects could come aboutthrough public/private partnerships to develop or redevelop land that is owned by a city. The City will investigate every opportunity available to help spur development projects within the Town Center.
Is there a comprehensive sustainability and resiliency plan?
The City has reviewed best management practices and how development can be sustainable long-term. The Mayor and Council will determine appropriate implementation strategies to clear the path forward on sustainability.
Do you see this as being its own distinct community within Johns Creek?
The Town Center will be a unique destination within the city, rather than its own community. We want it to be inclusive to draw a diverse group of people and users, have its own distinctive character and sense of place, and an area that is celebrated by Johns Creek residents.