onecumberland, Author at Cumberland CID

(CUMBERLAND) – November 21, 2025 – The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) and Cobb County, Georgia, will be a recipient of a $6.6 million grant through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Low or No Emission Vehicle Program (Low-No) to launch a new autonomous shuttle network – the Cumberland Autonomous Mobility (CAM) Network – a breakthrough initiative that will connect people, jobs, and destinations across Metro Atlanta’s Cumberland district. This award distinguishes Cumberland as the first and only autonomous vehicle project in the country to receive the Low-No grant award.

The CAM Network will leverage American technology to deploy a fleet of eight ADA-accessible autonomous shuttles, establishing a connected public transit system that will enhance first- and last-mile access, improve quality of life, and redefine mobility within one of the Southeast’s most dynamic business and entertainment communities. The project positions Georgia as a leader in integrating autonomous transit technology into a regional transportation system. The CAM Network will be part of the CobbLinc public transit system operated by Cobb County and is expected to launch in 2027.

“This investment announced today from the Federal Transit Administration marks one of the greatest chapters in our history, making a major component of the Cumberland Sweep a reality,” said Kim Menefee, executive director of the Cumberland CID. “Soon, people will have a new, innovative way to move around the community using some of the most advanced mobility technology in the world. I am proud of how the Cumberland CID and our partners continue to innovate, leading the way for shared autonomous mobility.”

“Today’s announcement represents the power of strong partnerships,” said Russell R. McMurry, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation. “By working together at the local, state, and federal levels, we’re advancing a project that supports Georgia’s broader vision for a safer, more connected, and more innovative mobility network. The Cumberland initiative shows how new technologies can enhance mobility and improve the daily travel experience for communities across our state.”

The CAM Network will connect major destinations in Cumberland including Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta – home of the Atlanta Braves – as well as the Cobb Convention Center – Atlanta, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Cumberland Mall, and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, creating seamless first- and last-mile links between the district’s workplaces, residential centers, and cultural attractions.

The Cumberland CID and Cobb County will partner with Beep, Inc., a U.S.-based autonomous mobility solutions company, to operate the network and integrate it with CobbLinc, the county’s existing public transit system. As the technology and operations partner, Beep brings significant experience and capabilities to support the safe and successful launch of this service.

Beep has proven experience in deploying shared autonomous mobility solutions across the country, including in the Cumberland district. Beep’s fully integrated solutions prioritize safety, efficiency, and flexibility. Beep’s AI-enabled AutonomOS™ platform is designed to optimize autonomous mobility services with “human-in-the-loop” oversight of autonomous mobility networks, which is essential to ensure safe, reliable operations and to optimize a high-quality passenger experience. The technology offers:

A unified view of service performance, fleet health, and on-road operations
In-cabin monitoring enabling rapid response by remote supervisors in the event of a passenger safety or roadway issue
Real-time orchestration to maximize service efficiency through the optimization engine.

“We are honored to partner with Cobb County, the Cumberland CID, and GDOT to deploy this groundbreaking program,” said Kevin Reid, CEO and chairman of Beep, Inc. “The CAM Network represents the next evolution of mobility: safe, connected, and scalable. Together, we’re demonstrating how autonomous transportation can seamlessly enhance the way people live, work, and move throughout their communities.”

The Cumberland Autonomous Mobility Network is part of a long-term vision dubbed the Cumberland Sweep – a 3-mile plus multimodal path designed to improve connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders through the district. By linking major commercial, residential, and recreational areas, the Sweep and the new shuttle service will reduce congestion and create safer, more accessible streets for all users.

The project builds on the success of the Cumberland Hopper, an autonomous shuttle pilot launched in 2023 that provided valuable data and community engagement around autonomous transit. With the addition of this new federal investment, Cumberland and Cobb County will now scale that success into a fully integrated, operational autonomous mobility network – one of the most comprehensive in the Southeast.

“I’m proud to have helped secure this funding for Cobb County so they can continue to be on the cutting edge of transportation innovation,” said U.S. Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock, D-Ga. “Georgia voters are the reason we were able to pass legislation that made this funding possible, and this federal investment reflects my commitment to improving Georgians’ connection to their communities.”

“I am thrilled that Cumberland CID and Cobb County were successful in winning this Federal Transit Administration grant through our bipartisan infrastructure law,” said U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-GA. “I thank Cobb Chairwoman Cupid, GDOT Commissioner McMurry, Cumberland CID Executive Director Menefee, and local business and community leaders for their help delivering this victory for Cobb.”

“Completing the Cumberland Sweep will be a major success, providing safe and reliable transportation while reinvigorating American industry with shuttles made in the U.S.,” said U.S. Rep. Barry Loudermilk, R-GA11. “Relieving the ever-growing congestion in this area is a worthy goal, as we must continue improving safety and quality of life for Georgians and all who visit to shop, work, or play here.”

“This grant award is a win for the Cumberland Community Improvement District and for all who live, work, and play in this part of Georgia’s Sixth District,” said U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath, D-GA6. “Funding awards like this are a reaffirmation that our region remains on the cutting edge of innovative transit solutions and collaborative partnerships that connect people with the places they love. I was proud to lend my support to this grant application and advocate for its approval to the Department of Transportation, because I recognize the importance of federal investments in local projects. Congratulations to the Cumberland CID and One Cumberland!”

“Cumberland CID and Cobb County continue to lead the way in strengthening safety and economic growth in our region,” said U.S. Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA7).” This $6.6 million federal investment in the SWEEP project is a major win for residents and businesses, and I’m proud my office could support the effort. These are the kinds of projects that deliver real results, reducing congestion, improving infrastructure, and keeping our communities moving forward.”

Since its formation in 1988 as Georgia’s first Community Improvement District, the Cumberland CID has invested more than $180 million in infrastructure and transportation improvements. The district now supports more than 88,000 jobs, 3,700 businesses, and 10 million annual visitors, serving as a national model for how business and government partnerships can drive sustainable growth.

Federal Transit Administration Awards Cumberland Community Improvement District and Cobb County, Georgia $6.6M to Launch Autonomous Shuttle Network Read More »

For the first time in One Cumberland & the Cumberland Community Improvement District’s 37-year history, the CID celebrated three remarkable achievements in 2025. As Georgia’s first CID, the CID has invested over $180 million into key community and infrastructure projects to enhance the Cumberland community.

AKERS MILL RAMP

When the I-75 NW Express Lanes System opened to commuters in 2018, drivers had limited options from the express lanes into Cumberland. In January, that changed. As a result of strategic planning, the CID stepped up to the plate and brought together funding partners to make way for a new access point into the heart of Cumberland. This $44 million project, called the Akers Mill Ramp, has been a resounding success, offering over 100,000 commuters daily an efficient way to save time. Commuters can obtain a Peach Pass today to take advantage of the new Akers Mill Ramp.

Below, Cumberland leaders joined the CID and One Cumbelrand on January 24th to celebrate the opening.

NEW DAY PALISADES PHASE ONE

President Jimmy Carter signed a congressional resolution in 1978 creating the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA). For Cobb County and Cumberland, one of the most popular places in the CRNRA is a 22-acre site called Paces Mill on the Chattahoochee River. Some know this park as the takeout for boating or “Shooting the Hooch.” Unfortunately, Paces Mill saw little investment since its creation, but a bold vision by the CID over a decade ago offered a plan for a much-needed rehabilitation. In June, the CID delivered upon that vision. By partnering with the National Park Service, the CID opened the $6.3 million Phase One of New Day Palisades. A project that features sustainable infrastructure that provides a more national park-like experience, bioswales, a new native meadow, and more. All features were carefully planned to provide the community with a recreational amenity to last for generations. Now, the CID’s non-profit, One Cumberland, is looking for community support for Phase Two. Learn more at newdaypalisades.org.

Below, community leaders celebrate Phase One improvements on June 7.

Bob Callan Trail Extension

Elevating the importance of Paces Mill, the Bob Callan Trail begins at the national park site. Its namesake derives from a Federal Highway Administration employee who championed funding for the project in the early 2000s. In September, the CID, Cobb County, and the Atlanta Regional Commission opened the final segment of the Bob Callan Trail, which now connects Paces Mill to Terrell Mill Road, a total of four miles. This beautiful trail winds along the Rottenwood Creek and features a new trailhead at Windy Hill Road as part of the $7.1 million extension. The project, now complete, is a testament to the dedication and vision of the CID since its inception.

Below, Cobb County and Cumberland leaders celebrate the opening of the Bob Callan Trail Extension.

2025: History in the Making Read More »

Hundreds of residents, elected officials, business and civic leaders, and park enthusiasts gathered this morning as the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID), nonprofit One Cumberland, and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA) cut the ribbon on the renewed Paces Mill in the Palisades Unit of the CRNRA. The celebration marked the completion of Phase One of New Day Palisades, a two‑phase, $15.8 million project to rehabilitate 22 acres of greenspace and riverfront trails along the Chattahoochee River.

“When we launched the New Day Palisades project, we envisioned more than just fresh pavement – we imagined a front porch on the Chattahoochee in the national park that belongs to everyone,” said Bob Voyles, board chair of the Cumberland CID. “Today, that vision springs to life. The redesigned circulation system, resilient native landscapes, and direct river touchpoints mean every school bus, wheelchair, kayak trailer, and pair of hiking boots can arrive safely, move easily, and experience the river up close. This milestone reflects years of collaboration among the Cumberland CID, the National Park Service, our federal delegation, commercial property owners, and thousands of residents who asked us to re‑imagine their backyard national park.”

Phase One Highlights
• A newly engineered parking hub and bus‑drop loop untangle traffic and separate pedestrians from vehicles, creating a welcoming destination for more than 270,000 annual visitors.
• Space for a sweeping native meadow, bioswales and precision grading now capture and filter stormwater before it reaches the river, stabilizing soils and enhancing ecological resilience across the 22‑acre site.
• Rebuilt boardwalks, gently graded paths guide every visitor – regardless of ability – directly to the water’s edge within minutes, turning the Chattahoochee into an immersive classroom and playground.

The $6.3 million phase one was funded with $4.3 million provided by the Cumberland CID and $2 million in federal appropriations championed by Georgia’s congressional delegation, including U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and U.S. Representatives Barry Loudermilk, Lucy McBath, and David Scott.

“Today’s ribbon cutting is a celebration of partnerships and a representation of what is possible when federal, state, and local leaders work together in service to our community,” said U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (GA 06). “The reopening of Paces Mill shows how smart investments in public land improve our health, strengthen our economy, and preserve Georgia’s natural treasures for generations to come. As your Congresswoman, I was proud to help secure federal funding for Phase One of this project, and I look forward to remaining engaged as we look ahead to the next stage of development for this wonderful community asset.”

“The completion of Phase One marks an exciting time in the effort to revitalize Paces Mill, so the hundreds of thousands of visitors each year can continue to enjoy this area for decades to come. I’m especially proud of the hard work Cumberland Community Improvement District and the nonprofit One Cumberland have done to make this vision a reality, and for the funds Congress was able to appropriate to help complete Phase One.” – Congressman Barry Loudermilk (GA-11)

“The New Day Palisades project is more than a transformation—it’s a strategic investment in Cumberland’s ecological assets,” said Rob Garcia, board chair of One Cumberland. “Through careful planning, we are ensuring Paces Mill remains a cherished destination for outdoor recreation while strengthening our community’s identity with improved accessibility, cultural enrichment, and environmental stewardship. We look forward to engaging the community to help move forward the vision of Phase Two.”

As funding allows, the $9.5 million Phase Two will begin in 2026 with an expected completion in spring 2027. One Cumberland will work to help raise funds for Phase Two. Phase Two will feature a new Visitor Information Center with enhanced restrooms and changing facilities, an open-air pavilion, and additional elements that will provide greater access to the Chattahoochee River.

Looking ahead: Phase Two (2026‑2027)
Planning is already underway for a $9.5 million second phase that will crown Paces Mill with:
• A fully ADA‑accessible Visitor Information Center featuring modern restrooms and changing rooms.
• An open‑air pavilion for environmental education and community events.
• Broad river steps beneath the U.S. 41 bridge and additional habitat and trail enhancements.
• River overlooks to increase accessibility to the Chattahoochee River.

When complete in spring of 2027 – timed to coincide with the CRNRA’s 50th anniversary, established in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter signed the enabling legislation – the two‑phase effort will stand as the single largest investment in public access to the Chattahoochee within the national park.

To learn more about the New Day Palisades project, please visit https://newdaypalisades.org/.

Cumberland CID, One Cumberland, and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area Celebrate the Opening of Paces Mill After $6.3 Million Renewal Read More »

The Cobb Chamber and Cumberland CID have selected Connie Engel as its 2025 Citizen of the Year. The Citizen of the Year Awards are given to honor an individual whose impact through the years will be recognized and regarded with pride throughout the area as a role model. These outstanding citizens are chosen for their definable, exceptional deeds, with which he or she has made their community a better place to live. Awards are given based on local area nominations. The 2025 Cumberland Citizen of the Year award was presented at the 2025 Cumberland Community Meeting on February 12.

2025 Cumberland Citizen of the Year

About Connie Engel

Connie Engel, CEO of Strada Communities, served on the Cumberland CID Board of Directors from 2000 to 2023. Engel is highly regarded for her experience in the commercial real estate industry and has built deep relationships in the Cumberland community. Throughout her service on the Board, Engel was instrumental in helping navigate the success of landmark infrastructure projects for the region including the Windy Hill Widening and Diverging Diamond Interchange, U.S. 41 (Cobb Parkway) Widening, New Day Palisades, the Akers Mill and Bob Callan Trails, and more. Most notably, Engel was instrumental in advocating for the Akers Mill Access Ramp for popular I-75 Northwest Corridor Express Lanes from Akers Mill Road over Interstate 75. The Ramp opened in January this year.

Engel has in charge of the development and leasing of the Atlanta Galleria Office Park for more than 20 years. She has served on the Board of Trustees of Kennesaw State University Foundation as Chairwoman and trustee, and on the Board of Directors of the Atlanta chapter of National Association of Corporate Directors. Her impressive experience has made her well-versed in the ins and outs of the business.

Connie Engel Named 2025 Cumberland Citizen of the Year Read More »

The Cumberland CID and One Cumberland held the 2025 Cumberland Community Meeting on February 12th!

More than 400 business and civic leaders, elected officials, agency partners, business owners, residents, and Cumberland enthusiasts gathered at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre for the 2025 Cumberland Community Meeting.

The topics discussed reflected on what’s going right in the district, and where we can combine our efforts as a community to push for an even better future. Stay tuned for more updates and upcoming events as we continue to work together to enhance Cumberland.

Cumberland CID and One Cumberland Holds Cumberland Community Meeting Read More »

The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) and the Cumberland CID opened the Akers Mill Access Ramp on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, a new Cumberland area access ramp to the popular Northwest Corridor Express Lanes from Akers Mill Road over Interstate 75.

“We have seen tremendous usage of the Northwest Corridor Express Lanes since their opening in 2018 with travel times 27 percent faster than the general-purpose lanes,” said Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell McMurry. “By creating this new access point, commuters will have a more efficient way to access the Express Lanes system from the Cumberland area.”

The Northwest Corridor Express Lanes are dynamically priced, tolled lanes offering drivers a reliable alternative to bypass congestion. Managed by the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA), access to the lanes requires an active Peach Pass or an interoperable toll pass, such as E-ZPass, Sun Pass, E-Pass, or Quick Pass.

The construction of the ramp was made possible through funding contributions from federal, state, and local sources, including the Atlanta Regional Commission, Georgia DOT, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (operated by SRTA), Cobb County, and the Cumberland CID.

“Considering the economic vitality of the Cumberland area, the State Road and Tollway Authority was proud to include this project in our investment portfolio,” said SRTA Executive Director Jannine Miller. “Cumberland CID has been leading in transportation innovation for decades, and the completion of this impactful project is another example of how we can collectively bring value to Georgia’s businesses.”

Located along I-75, the Cumberland area is Atlanta’s fifth-largest job center and a major cultural and entertainment destination, contributing $26.6 billion annually to Georgia’s economy. With over 3,700 businesses and 31,000 residents, the new ramp is expected to improve traffic flow to popular destinations within the district.

Bob Voyles, Chairman of the Cumberland CID Board of Directors, called the ramp’s opening a “landmark achievement” for the community. “This significant infrastructure investment by our commercial property owners and partners will give commuters a direct access point in and out of the heart of the Cumberland market, completing the successful I-75 NW Corridor Express Lane project,” Voyles said.

The new ramp spans 0.7 miles, beginning approximately 400 feet south of the existing Akers Mill Bridge over I-75 and ending 275 feet south of the Windy Ridge Parkway Bridge. It includes a 24-foot-wide reversible lane, breakdown shoulders, and a barrier-separated entrance to the northbound managed lanes.

C.W. Matthews served as the lead construction contractor, with GDOT overseeing project management and operations. GDOT Traffic Operations will handle the “Go-Live” coordination, while SRTA will manage tolling and facilitate ramp access.

“The Atlanta Regional Commission was proud to partner with the Cumberland CID and allocate funding for this project, which will improve mobility and safety in one of the region’s most important economic hubs,” said Anna Roach, ARC Executive Director and CEO. “This is another example of the Cumberland CID’s commitment to making the innovative investments needed to keep this fast-growing area a great place to live, work, and play.”

The Cumberland CID held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 22nd. Below is a recap video and photos from the event.

Photos from the ribbon-cutting.

Cumberland CID Opens Akers Access Mill Ramp Read More »

(Cumberland) – Last week, Cobb County and the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) announced they will partner together to renovate and enhance the Cobb Parkway/U.S. 41 Pedestrian South Bridge. The Cobb Parkway Pedestrian South Bridge serves as a major connection for the Cumberland area providing safe pedestrian access over Cobb Parkway/U.S. 41 from the Cobb Galleria Centre to Cumberland Mall. The bridge will undergo a $2.5 million renovation with the cost share split between Cobb County and the Cumberland CID.

“This Cobb Parkway Pedestrian South Bridge has long been a pillar of Cumberland serving pedestrians with a vital connection in the core of our district,” said Kim Menefee, executive director for the Cumberland CID. “The improvements to the bridge will further establish the CID’s commitment to providing a safe, enhanced, and walkable community while delivering an exciting early win for the Cumberland Sweep project. Thank you to Cobb County for their partnership for this enhancement.”

“The CID and County have a great history of working together to enhance transportation safety and connectivity in our community. In a continuation of this partnership, this project will deliver necessary structural maintenance and enhance the aesthetics of this marquee bridge.” said Drew Raessler, Director for the Cobb County Department of Transportation.

The Cobb Parkway Pedestrian South Bridge was completed in 1998 but conversations for the project began in 1993 with the Cumberland CID and the Georgia Department of Transportation leading the efforts. These enhancements are expected to be completed by the 2025 MLB All-Star Game.

Cobb Parkway Pedestrian Bridge South Rendering

Cobb Parkway Pedestrian Bridge South Rendering

Cobb County and the Cumberland Community Improvement District Partner to Renovate Cobb Parkway Pedestrian South Bridge Read More »

The Cumberland Community Improvement District’s (CID) successful autonomous (AV) shuttle pilot program, the Cumberland Hopper, reached an extraordinary milestone this week with 10,000 riders. This remarkable achievement further elevates the Cumberland CID’s leadership in the AV industry. The Cumberland CID along with its partner, Beep, Inc., a national leader in autonomous shared mobility solutions, launched the Cumberland Hopper in July 2023. The AV shuttle is planned to operate through December 2024.

The Hopper is a fully electric autonomous shuttle provided free to the community by the Cumberland CID as part of a major mobility project called the Cumberland Sweep. The Sweep will include a 3+ mile path around the core of the Cumberland District with dedicated walking and biking lanes and an autonomous shuttle system with the goal of connecting people to jobs and Cumberland’s major assets. The majority of the Sweep is currently in design, and construction is scheduled to begin in 2027.

“The community enthusiasm and ridership with the Cumberland Hopper is astounding,” said Kim Menefee, executive director for the Cumberland CID. “Workers, residents, and visitors have had the benefit of experiencing this cutting-edge technology right here in our district. With a planned AV shuttle system a few years away, Cumberland is poised to revolutionize shared mobility and help transform the future of transportation.”

“Beep is thrilled to celebrate the Cumberland Hopper reaching its 10,000th rider, a clear testament to the community’s confidence in the transformative opportunity that autonomous mobility provides,” said Joe Moye, CEO of Beep. “This pilot program marks the first step toward realizing the Cumberland CID’s vision for the future of transportation with the Cumberland Sweep program, which will establish a safe and accessible transit network throughout the community. By connecting residents, visitors and businesses to jobs, goods and services in the area, Cumberland will continue to thrive as one of the region’s most vibrant areas. We applaud the leadership and board of Cumberland CID for their commitment to innovation and mobility for all.”

Key survey findings (n=200+) on the Cumberland CID’s AV Shuttle Pilot Program (Cumberland Hopper):

90 percent had a good experience riding the Hopper
84 percent said the shuttle arrived at their stop in a reasonable amount of time
87 percent support seeing more AV shuttles in the Cumberland area.
93 percent felt safe riding the Hopper

To learn more about the Hopper or Cumberland Sweep, visit https://cumberlandsweep.org/.

About Cumberland CID
The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID), Georgia’s first CID, is one of the nation’s premier models of public-private collaboration. More than 190 Commercial property owners pay additional property taxes, and the CID leverages these funds to advance key projects for increased access, better connectivity, and a more vibrant character throughout the Cumberland area. Each year, the CID creates more value for the community by initiating and leading enhancements to make Cumberland a more attractive place to operate a business, to work, and to live. Today, Cumberland has a $26.6 billion annual impact on Georgia’s economy. Cumberland is home to leading companies including The Home Depot, Papa Johns, TKE, Comcast, Genuine Parts Company, and more. To learn more about the Cumberland CID, the Cumberland Sweep, and the Cumberland Hopper autonomous shuttle pilot program, please visit cumberlandcid.org.

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Cumberland Hopper Achieves 10,000+ Riders As part of AV Shuttle Pilot Program Read More »

The two-phase project will work to enhance and restore 22 acres of greenspace along the Chattahoochee River to continue community prosperity

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID), One Cumberland, and the National Park Service announced today the groundbreaking of Phase One of the New Day Palisades project to renew Paces Mill in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA). New Day Palisades is an inspired $15.8 million project that will rehabilitate Paces Mill in the Palisades Unit of the CRNRA, a 22-acre recreational greenspace along the Chattahoochee River.

Paces Mill is part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, which includes a 48-mile section of the Chattahoochee River from Lake Lanier to Atlanta. Established nearly five decades ago by former President Jimmy Carter, the goal of the area was to bridge the need for well-preserved recreational areas in growing urban centers.

“We are thrilled to be breaking ground on this marquee project for Cumberland,” said Bob Voyles, Cumberland CID Board Chair. “The CRNRA is the lifeblood of our community and the enhancements and renewal by New Day Palisades will be the first time Paces Mill has seen a major investment in nearly 50 years. Paces Mill and the Chattahoochee River are woven into the fabric of our community, and we must protect and preserve this national treasure for future generations.”

The Cumberland CID has worked extensively to secure funding for the $15.8 million project. Phase One is $6.3 million and will focus on visitor circulation and safety, site enhancement, and sustainability. From a new parking lot and landscape features to increased river access, this phase will enrich visitor experiences and create a safer environment for nature to thrive. Phase One is anticipated to be completed in spring 2025. The Cumberland CID Board invested $4.3 million in the project, and U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and U.S. Representatives Barry Loudermilk, Lucy McBath, and David Scott played a major role in helping successfully secure the $2 million in congressional funding for Phase One of the rehabilitation.

“Since I first came to Congress, I have focused my attention on projects that connect people with the places we love,” said U.S. Representative Lucy McBath. “Today’s groundbreaking signifies the first major renovations of Paces Mill in the Palisades Unit since the 1970s —that is why I was proud to secure $1 million in funding to support this project. The forward-thinking developments from the Cumberland CID—the first CID in Georgia—play a crucial role in making this region such an attractive destination to live, work, and raise a family. I look forward to enjoying the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area with fellow Georgians for years to come!”

As funding allows, the $9.5 million Phase Two will begin in 2026 with an expected completion in spring 2027. One Cumberland will work to help raise funds for Phase Two. Phase Two will feature a new Visitor Information Center with restrooms and changing facilities, an open-air pavilion, and additional elements that will provide greater access to the Chattahoochee River.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a major win for the region and for the CRNRA,” said Rob Garcia, One Cumberland Board Chair. “Cumberland has over 840 acres of national parkland in our backyard, but Paces Mill is so much more than just a greenspace. It’s a unique place in our urban environment where we connect with nature and the river and enjoy an abundance of recreational activities. We look forward to engaging the community to help move forward the vision of Phase Two.”

While the New Day Palisades Phase One is underway, Paces Mill will be closed for construction until spring 2025. Trails will remain open to the Palisades, but visitor access to trails through Paces Mill will not be permitted.

To learn more about the New Day Palisades project, please visit https://newdaypalisades.org/.

Cumberland CID Breaks Ground on New Day Palisades Read More »

(CUMBERLAND) Commercial property owners of the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) elected Trey Conway, Director of Real Estate and Corporate Facilities for The Home Depot, to the Cumberland CID Board of Directors at a Caucus of Electors Thursday morning. Conway filled an open post created by the retirement of long-serving Board Chair John Shern.

“I am delighted to join the Cumberland CID’s Board of Directors,” said Conway. “There is no other place in the Southeast that has experienced so much growth, so much diverse development, and so much excitement than Cumberland. I’ll work to continue the momentum and build upon the rich legacy of the Cumberland CID to add value to our community, our businesses, and all who live, work, and visit our home.”

John Shern’s 36 years on the Board is the longest for a CID board member in Georgia. In the early 1980s, Shern worked with local Cobb business leaders and the Cobb Chamber of Commerce to establish the vision for community improvement districts in Georgia. Through Shern’s and the Board’s visionary leadership, Cumberland has become a major employment and job center in Atlanta and the southeast with 3,700 businesses providing 88,300 jobs. Additionally, 31,000 residents now call Cumberland home, and the District draws thousands of visitors each year as an entertainment destination. Shern represented The Home Depot during his tenure and helped guide the CID through the development and delivery of major infrastructure and transportation project investments in the district including the Cumberland Boulevard Loop Road, the Kennedy Interchange, Paces Ferry Road & Interchange, U.S. 41 widening, the Windy Hill Diverging Diamond and widening, and the Akers Mill Ramp as part of the I-75 NW Express Lanes System.

As the Director of Real Estate and Corporate Facilities for The Home Depot, Conway is responsible for the existing retail real estate portfolio, new store development program, corporate facilities, and other capital and expense projects. Conway oversees the new store development in the southeast from the strategic site selection process to acquisition, including oversight of entitlements, design, and permits in preparation for construction. Additionally, Conway manages the Corporate Facilities team for all The Home Depot’s office portfolio consisting of 50+ office locations and more than 3 million square feet.

From left to right: Trey Conway and John Shern

About Cumberland CID

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID), Georgia’s first CID, is one of the nation’s premier models of public-private collaboration. More than 190 Commercial property owners pay additional property taxes, and the CID leverages these funds to advance key projects for increased access, better connectivity, and a more vibrant character throughout the Cumberland area. Each year, the CID creates more value for the community by initiating and leading enhancements to make Cumberland a more attractive place to operate a business, to work, and to live. Today, Cumberland has a $26.6 billion annual impact on Georgia’s economy. Cumberland is home to leading companies including Piedmont Office Realty Trust, the Atlanta Braves, The Home Depot, Papa Johns, TKE, Comcast, Genuine Parts Company, and more. To learn more about the Cumberland CID go to cumberlandcid.org.

Trey Conway Succeeds John Shern on Cumberland CID Board Read More »