The Metro Atlanta Redevelopment Summit (MARS), presented by Gwinnett’s Community Improvement Districts, and co-hosted by Partnership Gwinnett and the Council for Quality Growth, offered an exclusive look at major redevelopment projects shaping the future of the region.

This year’s event not only highlighted emerging trends in the redevelopment industry but also provided valuable networking opportunities for professionals across metro Atlanta. Attendees gained insight into best practices through discussions on successful revitalization projects. The summit’s marquee moment was the presentation of the annual MARS Awards, recognizing remarkable achievements in redevelopment that are transforming the Metro Atlanta landscape.

The keynote address was delivered by Joe Minicozzi, a renowned urban planner and founder of Urban3, who shared his expertise on land use, urban design and economics. In addition to the keynote, the event featured dynamic panel discussions with local leaders and key partners from across the metropolitan area, spotlighting successful projects and innovative strategies in the region. Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson concluded the summit with closing remarks, emphasizing the continued growth of the region and the collective efforts driving its future.

The MARS Awards ceremony celebrated projects that have made significant economic impacts on their communities and honored an individual who has dedicated their career to advancing successful redevelopment initiatives.

2024 MARS Awards Winners:

Redevelopment Champion of the Year:  

Tim Perry, Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer of Jamestown

Runner up: Paul Radford, Sugar Hill City Manager

Small Redevelopment Project of the Year:

The Historic Jones Building

The historic Jones Building, one of the oldest structures in Cherokee County, has been revitalized to meet modern needs while preserving its storied past. This ambitious 28-month restoration culminated in August 2024, breathing new life into this cornerstone of Downtown Canton and creating a dynamic space for work, dining, and play.

Runner up: The Hands of Christ Duluth Co-Op

Medium Redevelopment Project of the Year:

The Grove at Towne Center

The Grove at Towne Center is a transformative development at the heart of Snellville. With 33,000 square feet of restaurant space, 10,000 square feet of retail, and the new Elizabeth H. Williams Branch of the Gwinnett Public Library, The Grove offers an ideal blend of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

Runner up: Springside Powder Springs

Large Redevelopment Project of the Year:

The Works

The Works is an innovative, 80-acre adaptive reuse community that reimagines a historic warehouse district in Atlanta’s Upper Westside. The first phase, spanning 27 acres, introduces a dynamic mix of 218,000 square feet of unique retail and dining spaces, 118,000 square feet of creative office space, and Westbound at The Works—a modern 306-unit multifamily residence.

Runner up: The Forum

“Community redevelopment is essential in creating vibrant, thriving spaces that enhance the quality of life and drive sustainable economic growth for the entire region,” said Deven Cason, Vice President of Economic Development for Partnership Gwinnett. “We proudly congratulate this year’s award winners and finalists for their innovative contributions and tireless efforts in revitalizing our communities. Their work is not only reshaping local landscapes but also fueling long-term economic prosperity in metro Atlanta. We are grateful for their dedication to building a brighter, more prosperous future.”

The program was held at the former Georgia Baptist Convention Center, Maison6405 and welcomed more than 200 attendees in the industry. Sponsors included Evermore CID, Gateway 85 CID, Gwinnett Place CID, Lilburn CID, Sugarloaf CID, C2H Air, Hogan Construction, Northside, Primerica, The Forum, Gas South, Jackson EMC, Select Fulton, True North 400, ABEV Power Solutions, City of Suwanee, Curiosity Labs, Geo Hydro Engineers, Georgia Power, Lose Designs, City of Lawrenceville, City of Norcross, City of Peachtree Corners, City of Sugar Hill, and Town of Braselton.