onecumberland, Author at Cumberland CID

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 »

2024 Cumberland Community Meeting Recap Video Read More »

At the 2024 Cumberland Community Meeting, in partnership with One Cumberland, local leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the district’s substantial economic contributions and unveiled new initiatives aimed at fostering community development and environmental stewardship.

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) highlighted its annual impact on Georgia’s and Cobb County’s economies, with figures reaching $26.6 billion and $20.4 billion respectively. The CID attributes this significant economic influence to the vibrant activity within the district, which includes over 3,700 businesses and supports more than 88,000 jobs, marking Cumberland as one of the largest employment centers in metro Atlanta.

In addition to its economic contributions, Cumberland is embarking on major mobility and conservation projects. Notably, the CID announced the New Day Palisades project, a $13 million initiative to rehabilitate the Paces Mill/Palisades Unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. The project aims to create a premier national park experience accessible to all residents and visitors. Phase One of this project is set to break ground this fall, with subsequent phases focusing on community engagement and funding.

Transportation and infrastructure also remain key priorities for the district, with over $160 million invested in vital projects since 1988. These efforts aim to improve access and connectivity, further enhancing the area’s appeal as a prime location for business and leisure.
Kim Menefee, executive director for the Cumberland CID, emphasized the importance of local support for the newly formed charitable organization, One Cumberland. Led by business leaders in the district, this new organization seeks to reinforce the CID’s mission to preserve Cumberland’s natural resources while promoting a dynamic and inclusive community. Contributions to One Cumberland are set to support projects that enhance cultural amenities, quality of life, and environmental stewardship within the district.

“As one of the most dynamic communities in the Atlanta area, Cumberland boasts an impressive array of assets, from entertainment and cultural arts to sports, retail, and prime residential spaces, not to mention our cherished national park and the picturesque Chattahoochee River,” stated Menefee. “Today’s announcements underscore our commitment to building on our successes and ensuring that Cumberland continues to thrive as a beacon of economic strength.”

The Cumberland Community Improvement District is looking forward to engaging with corporate partners, residents, and visitors to bring these ambitious projects to fruition, further solidifying Cumberland’s position as a key economic and cultural hub in the region.

The meeting also celebrated individual contributions to the community, with John Shern, Chair of the Cumberland CID, receiving the Cumberland Citizen of the Year Award from Sharon Mason, President & CEO of the Cobb Chamber. This accolade reflects the dedicated efforts of individuals who are instrumental in advancing the district’s growth and vitality.

For more information about the Cumberland Community Improvement District and upcoming projects, please visit https://cumberlandcid.org/.

Cumberland Community Improvement District Unveils Booming Economic Numbers Read More »

(The One Cumberland Board of Directors unanimously voted to add three esteemed board members, expanding the Board from nine members to 12 members. Jim Allen, vice president of corporate and premium partnerships for the Atlanta Braves, Julia Ayers, vice present of state government affairs for Georgia and South Carolina for Comcast, and Mike Skordeles, head of U.S. economics and a senior vice present for Truist Advisory Services have joined the Board and their term will take effect immediately.

“I am thrilled to have these talented individuals join the Board,” said Rob Garcia, board chair of One Cumberland. “The Atlanta Braves, Comcast, and Truist are premier companies in Cumberland. Having representatives from these companies elevates the profile of One Cumberland and our mission and goals. Our community will greatly benefit from having their experience, expertise, and vision through the work of One Cumberland.”

About Jim Allen, vice president of corporate and premium partnerships for the Atlanta Braves

A 32-year veteran of the Atlanta Braves’ front office, Jim Allen was named as the club’s senior vice president of corporate and premium partnerships in October 2017. Allen is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Braves’ corporate relationships, including all advertising, in-park signage, giveaways, retail promotions, hospitality, and corporate identity throughout Truist Park. In addition, he is responsible for overseeing all Braves radio advertising with the club’s radio rightsholder, Dickey Broadcasting. Allen also oversees all Braves’ suite and premium ticket partnerships. After serving as a trainee in the ticket sales department, Allen was hired full-time in November 1993 and has worked in a variety of departments during his tenure, including community relations, ticket sales, and promotions. Allen serves on the Board of Governors for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and on the boards for SelectCobb and Promise 686. He also serves on the Sports Marketing Advisory Board for Samford University.

About Julia Ayers, vice present of state government affairs for Georgia and South Carolina for Comcast

Julia Ayers is vice president of state government affairs for Georgia and South Carolina for Comcast. Prior to her role at Comcast, Ayers served as the vice president of government relations at Kennesaw State University. Her experience includes working for Governor Nathan Deal as deputy chief of staff for legislative and external affairs and as Assistant Commissioner of External Affairs for the Technical College System of Georgia. Ayers is a graduate of the University of Mississippi as well as a graduate of Leadership Georgia and Leadership Cobb.

About Mike Skordeles, senior vice president and head of U.S. economics

Mike Skordeles is senior vice president and head of U.S. economics at Truist. He is responsible for analyzing U.S. and global economies and financial markets as well as helping formulate and communicate investment strategy, and publishing commentaries for clients. Skordeles is based in Atlanta as part of the firm’s Investment Advisory Group. He is a sought-after speaker, sharing his insights with investor and industry groups as well as C-suite executives. Skordeles has been quoted in Bloomberg, the New York Times, and CNN.com, and has appeared on CNBC, among other media outlets.

(From left to right: Jim Allen, Julia Ayers, and Mike Skordeles)

One Cumberland Adds Three Board Members from the Atlanta Braves, Comcast, & Truist Read More »