TSW, an Atlanta-based Planning, Architecture and Landscape Architecture firm, has won an Outstanding Plan Implementation Award from the Georgia Planning Association (GPA).  TSW was honored for its phased-in implementation of Powder Springs, Georgia’s Livable Cities Initiative (LCI).  The award was presented Oct. 3 at the GPA’s annual fall conference.

According to GPA, the award recognizes an effort that demonstrates a significant achievement for a single community or region in accomplishing positive changes as a result of planning.  The award emphasizes long-term, measurable results over a minimum of three years, and honors connection to the original plan, effectiveness of the implementation and sustainability.

“We are extremely proud of the work we have done in partnership with the leadership of Powder Springs, and pleased to have this work recognized by the GPA,” said Adam Williamson, senior principal of TSW.  “Our firm began working with the city in 2015, when we orchestrated a multi-faceted planning process in partnership with the LCI program, facilitated by the Atlanta Regional Commission.  Like many small towns, Powder Springs was struggling with an outdated town center lacking energy and adequate public spaces for people to gather.  Town leaders wanted to transform that historic core into a vibrant, walkable district with shops, restaurants, entertainment and passive recreation.  Once the plan was approved, we then began to outline a multi-phase implementation process to turn the vision into reality.”

The implementation plan is focused on several key components:

Creating a multi-purpose Town Green for concerts, farmers markets and festivals

Developing a community-based process for historic downtown redevelopment and land acquisition through the Downtown Development Authority to attract restaurants and brewing companies

Rehabbing existing structures and proposing sites for new development to accommodate all population sectors

Strengthening physical connections through existing and new public spaces and expanding the bicycle/pedestrian network to the Silver Comet Trail.

The creation of a new Town Green was identified as the first priority of the implementation plan, since it will serve as a catalyst for new development once it opens in April 2020.  Its design includes a multi-use amphitheater/flex lawn, signature splash pad, permanent outdoor ping pong tables and public restrooms.

“The new Town Green will draw current and new residents, visitors and businesses into a walkable, mixed-use environment designed for people of all ages,” said Laura Richter, TSW associate.  “The Milner Building, which faces the Town Green, has already been purchased, and RailCat Brewing has also purchased a building downtown with plans to open in 2020.  In the future, the Town Green will directly connect to the existing Silver Comet multi-use trail via a new pathway.  Additional implementation priorities include historic building renovation and rehab, along with the design and construction of three new buildings designed by TSW to house a photography studio, local market and future bar space.  We also have recommended new downtown housing to add to the energy of the town center.”