Fairburn...A World Away Fairburn is an emerging community for Arts and Entertainment. Livable spaces are developing throughout the city with an ongoing Creative Placemaking Strategy, public art, design, and streetscape project. Strategic placemaking has had a significant impact on shaping a city’s brand, appeal, and in many cases, garnered substantial investment. In the town of Fairburn, strategic placemaking has a central role in conjunction with coordination and implementation of the 2015-2035 Comprehensive Plan. Through the city’s Comprehensive Plan, feedback from residents helps establish the overall priorities for the town. Citizens reveal a desire for a thriving downtown, transportation connectivity, more pedestrian-friendly developments, a better grocery store, and mixed-use developments. They are addressing citizen concerns for enhanced quality of life and more sustainable results informed by comprehensive planning. The city of Fairburn worked with the metropolitan planning organization, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), to develop a creative placemaking strategy in 2017. The goal was to focus economic development approaches on arts and entertainment as catalysts for activating and enhancing public space. Historically, developments and events were identified in isolation. However, with the implementation of Fairburn’s Creative Placemaking Strategy, there is a shift from ad-hoc events and actions to a holistic approach to incorporate a ‘competitive identity’. Historic Growth A place settled as early as 1830, the town was founded as Cartersville in 1833 and thrived as a banking town located along the CSX railway,
changing its name one year later to Berryville. In 1854, the Georgia State Legislature enacted a town charter named Fairburn, and by 1925 Fairburn changed its status from a “town” to a “city.” Since its founding, Fairburn has experienced tremendous growth. For many, the attraction is the small-town charm. According to Fairburn’s Mayor, Elizabeth Carr-Hurst, “Fairburn is a place that has something for everyone.” Fairburn’s heart of downtown showcases 20 commercial buildings, the Campbell County Courthouse, and two train depots. Fairburn is looking to the future with a vibrant downtown courtyard and stage for concerts, special events, annual Farmer’s Market, and numerous opportunities for small businesses. Restaurants like award-winning Slider’s Burger Joint, Armando’s Mexican food, Casablanca’s Southern cuisine, and Oz Pizza are among the downtown varieties that offer guests a relaxed atmosphere and exceptional food. Cochran Mill Brewing Company’s craft beer, casual setting, and open-food policy (you can bring your own food) allows guests of all ages to enjoy. Since their
Cochran Mill Brewing Company
20 ATL - Your Guide to Atlanta and the Airport Area
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