The Gateway85 Community Improvement District (CID) board of directors voted during its August meeting to name Robert Michener as executive director. Michener, who has served as interim since July, brings 17 years of dedicated service to the CID and a proven record of advancing projects that improve mobility, safety and economic growth across the district.

With the board’s vote, Michener now transitions from interim to permanent leadership, continuing the work he began earlier this summer to guide Gateway85’s projects and partnerships. As executive director, he will oversee the CID’s strategic direction, manage its $4 million annual budget and lead initiatives focused on improving traffic flow, enhancing public safety, supporting redevelopment and strengthening economic competitiveness.

“Gateway85 CID and Gwinnett County have enjoyed a 20-year relationship, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished over that time,” said Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “I’m eager to work with Robert to advance an array of safety, transportation and redevelopment initiatives throughout Gateway85 CID that are critical to the future of Gwinnett County.”
Michener first joined Gateway85 nearly two decades ago as an administrative assistant and has steadily advanced through roles of increasing responsibility. Before he was named interim executive director, he served as director of operations, where he managed day-to-day project implementation and oversaw initiatives that improved transportation infrastructure, enhanced public safety and advanced beautification and redevelopment efforts across the district.

Over the years, he has worked closely with local governments, state agencies and community partners to deliver projects that benefit both business and property owners in the district’s 14 square miles. Gateway85 represents more than 550 property owners and $1.7 billion in commercial property value, making it one of the largest and most active CIDs in Georgia.

“Robert’s passion for Gateway85 CID and the success he has delivered over his 17 years of service with our CID made him the clear choice to lead us into the future,” said Shiv Aggarwal, chairman of the Gateway85 CID board of directors. “He has the experience and vision to continue delivering results that strengthen the district and support our property and business owners.”

Business leaders echoed that sentiment, noting the CID’s central role in Gwinnett’s economic competitiveness.

“Robert’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for both Gateway85 and Gwinnett County,” said Nick Masino, president and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. “His forward-thinking approach and commitment to collaboration will not only strengthen Gateway85 but also enhance our region’s broader economic vitality. I look forward to continuing our partnership as Gateway85 plays a key role in shaping Gwinnett’s future growth and competitiveness.”

Looking ahead, Michener said he is committed to continuing Gateway85’s legacy of investment and growth.

“I’m proud of what I have accomplished at Gateway85 throughout my career, including innovative crime reduction initiatives, world-class landscaping and more than 20 miles of new sidewalks,” said Robert Michener, executive director of Gateway85 CID. “I’m thrilled for the opportunity to lead Gateway85 into its next chapter as we embark on reimagining the Jimmy Carter Boulevard area to better support and attract business and improve the quality of life for the entire community.”

Gateway85 will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of investment and growth in southwest Gwinnett County.