Splash Park & Signage (2023) The City of Camilla regularly identifies and meets the needs of its citizens to strengthen the community bond and improve the well-being of its residents. Recent community feedback led to the development of a safe playground facility, culminating in the completion of a Splash Park that includes a playground, water splash pad, park benches with tables, restrooms, and beautiful iron fencing. Additionally, the city installed welcoming gateway signs along Highway 19, enhancing its appeal to visitors and potential investors. These projects, part of the 2022-2026 Community Work Program reflect Camilla's commitment to meeting citizen needs and fostering local pride.

Housing (2022)

In the 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update, public comments in surveys and workshops repeatedly focused on the need for affordable housing near amenities in the growing city of Carrollton. The City of Carrollton utilized funds from the Carroll County Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) to construct three new affordable single-family homes on city-owned infill lots. These homes were available only for buyers whose household income was below 50% AMI. This construction met the community’s goals and needs and helped families build wealth—all while helping spur renovation of other nearby properties. 

Sewer Rehabilitation (2022)

In 2021, the City of Cochran successfully implemented their Phase II Sewer Rehabilitation Project (CIPP) citywide. This was a $1.1 million improvement of the City's sewer collection system that has resulted in a reduction in the City's inflow and infiltration into the City's wastewater treatment plant. The project entailed first conducting a camera review of all twenty-six (26) miles of City sewer lines, and then slip-lined, using the technique of cured in-place-pipe (CIPP), the six (6) miles of the most deteriorated sewer lines in Cochran. This project greatly improved the reliability and efficiency of the City's sewer collection system, directly meeting the City’s goal of improving water and sewer infrastructure. 

Park Transformation (2024)

The Davis Wade Park Improvements Project in Douglas, Georgia, completed in 2022 for $5.2 million, revitalized the community by introducing a competition-sized pool, an ADA-accessible playground, and Roper's Miracle Field for inclusive recreation for the Miracle League—which supports approximately 90 participants and 30 volunteers, emphasizing the community’s commitment to inclusivity for individuals with special needs. The Johnson Aquatic Center, home to the six-time state champion Douglas Stingrays Swim Team, attracts 18,000 visitors annually and serves as a hub for district swim meets accommodating 600 spectators! Financial contributions totaling $38,000 from local industries and residents highlight the successful collaboration and planning that underpinned this transformative community project. 

Mixed Use Path (2022)

In 2021, Gainesville completed significant park and public facility improvements in its Central Core, including the second phase of the Midland Greenway, which is part of the broader Highlands To Islands Trail. This initiative, a culmination of two decades of planning and funding, features a new playground, Hall County’s first skatepark, and enhanced streetscapes with pedestrian amenities. The project not only beautifies the neighborhood and improves pedestrian connectivity but also stimulates private investment, as evidenced by the development of the 221-unit Solis apartment community and various small-scale redevelopments.  The City of Gainesville modeled how to use these improvements to foster economic growth and enhance community infrastructure. 

City Hall & Economic Development (2022)

In 2019, the City of Griffin completed a $3.75 million renovation of its Historic City Hall, a key project from the Comprehensive Plan aimed at revitalizing the central business district. This 1910 structure, which had fallen into disrepair after its 2003 vacancy and was designated a "Place in Peril" by the Georgia Trust in 2014, has now become a catalyst for further redevelopment in the area. The renovated building houses the City’s Economic Development department and offers sought-after event space, enhancing community engagement. Recognized with the 2020 Marguerite Williams Award for its significant preservation impact, this project exemplifies how restoring historic assets can drive local economic growth and development. 

Wastewater Treatment Facility (2024)

The City of Grovetown has successfully expanded its wastewater treatment capacity by opening a new facility in 2021, addressing the needs of its growing population. Previously, the city was sending more wastewater (350,000 gallons per day) to Columbia and Richmond Counties than it treated (300,000 gallons per day), which was not sustainable. The project, identified as a priority in the 2016 Comprehensive Plan, involved constructing a new Water Pollution Control Plant and rehabilitating the existing sewerage system, with a total investment of $23.5 million in GEFA funds. This new facility not only meets current demands but also ensures Grovetown can manage future wastewater needs independently. 

Redevelopment Project (2022)

In Sandy Springs, A mixed-use redevelopment project at 120 Northwood Drive in Sandy Springs, GA, transformed a former church and office space into a mini-warehouse self-storage facility with community-serving offices and retail, alongside a dedicated park. This 2.6-acre project addresses the needs of a lower median-income neighborhood, primarily serving a predominantly Hispanic community. This project aligned with the goals of the City’s 2017 Comprehensive Plan, "The Next Ten," by promoting urban development while preserving existing neighborhoods and enhancing public spaces. Additionally, the project supported recommendations for expanding greenspaces and recreational facilities, contributing to a more vibrant and accessible community. 

Community Garden (2022)

In Sylvester, Georgia, the Community Work Plan 2018-2022 aimed to enhance residents' quality of life through investments in parks and open spaces, culminating in a community garden project led by the Southern Sky Center for Diverse Arts and Culture in collaboration with Fort Valley State University. This initiative not only provides a gathering place for youth and community members to engage in horticulture but also promotes healthy living by producing nutritious food. Located near low to moderate-income neighborhoods and senior housing, the garden has become a vital resource. It offers fresh produce and educational opportunities, while also attracting visitors from as far away as Africa. The project, featuring a 6.40-acre garden with aeroponics, vegetable beds, and a pond with a walking track, exemplifies how community-driven efforts can foster self-reliance, encourage recreation, and contribute to neighborhood development.