On the Cover:
Big Things in Store for the City of Lilburn By Kristen Eleveld It’s no secret to Lilburn residents and neighbors that this medium-sized town is making huge strides in developing the community that their residents are looking for. We were able to catch up with Lilburn City Manager Jenny Simpkins and Lilburn Police Chief Chris Dusik to learn more about what the Lilburn community can expect to see in the coming weeks and months. As City Manager, it’s Ms. Simpkins’ job to carry out city policy, manage daily operations, and keep her finger on the pulse of Lilburn residents’ visions for their city. This allows her to not only understand what Lilburn needs in order to achieve these goals, but also to partner with each community member to develop new visions as the city grows and changes. For instance, one project that Ms. Simpkins is particularly excited about is a development coming to the corner of First Street and Main Street, where the Lilburn Downtown Development Authority has secured three acres that will be used for restaurants, coffee shops, and an adjoining courtyard with a residential area. This is more than the city just providing places to get a great meal or to live close to the downtown area. Before taking any other steps, the city did an economic impact analysis that demonstrated just how beneficial this development would be for residents and business-owners alike. “Walkability is an amazing thing, and people want that,” said Ms. Simpkins. “And we want to provide that.” Lilburn is not only providing more and more changes for residents to be able to walk or bike to work, but also to enjoy the local greenway that often sees people and pets enjoying the weather. Another upcoming development is that of 275 luxury apartments on Railroad Avenue that will open up to the greenway, providing more residents with easy access to enjoy the outdoors – and, of course, with even more opportunities to
October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett
get to know their neighbors and community. Much of the success of the latest updates to Lilburn is thanks to a partnership with businesses and other towns. Ms. Simpkins works with other Gwinnett cities, like Lawrenceville and Norcross, to determine what works well for their cities and what isn’t a good fit. Lilburn also partners with multiple agencies and developers to ensure that the end result of any new addition to Lilburn reflects the city and the people who live, work, and play in it every day. “The potential of Old Town, and our city in general, is due primarily to Continued on page 9
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