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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.

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/.

(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)

Earlier this month, the Cobb County Board of Commissioners appointed Matthew Teague to the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) Board of Directors. Teague serves as Director of New Development at Walton Communities, an Atlanta-based apartment development company dedicated to creating affordable housing for families and seniors, in addition to developing market-rate apartment homes. Currently, Walton manages nearly 7000 apartment homes throughout Georgia. Teague will succeed his father, Barry Teague, on the Board.

“It is an honor to serve on the Cumberland CID Board,” said Matthew Teague. “The history and story of Cumberland have been remarkable. As someone who works in the region, I have witnessed the extraordinary investments made by the Cumberland CID that have established this community as a magnet for millennials, visitors, businesses, and exciting entertainment options. I look forward to serving and building upon the distinctive legacy of the Cumberland CID.”

“I am proud to have Matthew join the Board,” said Kim Menefee, Executive Director for the Cumberland CID. “I would like to thank the Cobb County Board of Commissioners for appointing Matthew to the CID Board. Matthew will bring his unique experience and perspective in the multifamily industry to the CID as Cumberland is experiencing a positive surge in residents. His leadership, experience, and passion will undoubtedly have a valuable impact on our community.”

In his role at Walton, Teague searches for future opportunities to follow Walton’s mission of “Going beyond building places where people live by creating neighborhoods where people thrive.” He enjoys fulfilling his creative passion for design in his role when working with architects, engineers, construction trades, and other designers to plan and build communities that residents are pleased to call “home.”

Before returning home to Atlanta, Teague served as a presidential appointee to President George W. Bush in Washington, DC in various roles including as an Associate Director in Presidential Personnel at The White House, and as White House Liaison at the U.S. Small Business Administration. In both roles, Teague recruited senior executives in the financial services, commerce, housing, and transportation industries to serve as presidential appointees at Cabinet agencies such as the Department of Treasury, Commerce, Transportation, and the Small Business Administration.

In his local community, Teague is a member in various capacities at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce including as Co-Chair for Leadership Cobb 2022 and member of the Leadership Cobb Class of 2015. He also enjoys CrossFit, running, and generally everything in the outdoors.
Finally, Matthew graduated cum laude with a BA from Rhodes College in Memphis Tennessee.

Barry Teague was appointed to the Cumberland CID Board of Directors in 2005 under the leadership of Cobb County Chairman, Sam Olens. In 2009, Teague was appointed Treasurer of the Board. He has been an advocate and champion of the Cumberland trail network through the Cumberland CID which has included the development of the Akers Mill Trail, Bob Callan Trail, the Silver Comet Connector, and many more. Teague will remain active in the community serving on the One Cumberland Board of Directors and serving as Executive Chairman of Walton Communities

During Teague’s tenure on the Board, Cumberland has evolved from a 9-5 business center to a bustling economic and entertainment district. Today, the Cumberland District has a $23.6 billion annual economic impact on Georgia’s economy and a $18 billion annual economic impact on Cobb County’s economy.

(Pictured from left to right: Matt Teague and Barry Teague)

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) Board of Directors and Cobb County officials broke ground on an extension and new trailhead for the Bob Callan Trail on Monday, January 29. The extension will be a critical link in connecting the existing Bob Callan Trail to the trail along Bentley Road to Terrell Mill Road. Speakers for the groundbreaking included Cumberland CID Board Chair John Shern, Cumberland CID Executive Director Kim Menefee, Cobb County Commissioners Jerica Richardson and JoAnn Birrell, and Cobb County Department of Transportation Director (DOT) Drew Raessler.

“This groundbreaking showcases a remarkable partnership between the Atlanta Regional Commission, Cobb County, and the Cumberland CID,” said Board Chair John Shern. “Our commitment over the past 36 years is to make our community more accessible, more connected, and more vibrant. It is what we do, and this trail will be a critical piece in connecting the northern part of our District to the core of Cumberland.”

“This new trailhead and connection provide Cobb County with a beautiful new recreational amenity,” said Commissioner Jerica Richardson. “One of the best-kept secrets in our community is the Chattahoochee River National Recreational Area (CRNRA) which features over 840 acres of national parkland and the pristine Chattahoochee River. For residents, it will be easy to hop on the Bob Callan Trail and explore and discover our natural assets.”

“This groundbreaking is a significant achievement for the region,” said Commissioner JoAnn Birrell. “A more connected Cobb County benefits everyone. I’m proud of the partnership between our entities to make this project happen as this extension will serve as a viable transportation option for the 84,000 jobs and 30,000 residents that are in the Cumberland area.”

The $7.4 million project, once complete, will connect nearly four miles of trails beginning at the Paces Mill/Palisades Unit to Terrell Mill Road. The new trailhead will be located at the northeast quadrant of the Windy Hill Road and Bentley Road intersection.

(From left to right: Stephen Gentry – Cumberland CID Board Member, Drew Raessler – Cobb DOT Director, Cobb Commissioner Jerica Richardson, Kim Menefee – Executive Director for Cumberland CID, John Shern – Cumberland CID Board Chair, Cobb Commissioner JoAnn Birrell, Dr. Jackie McMorris – Cobb County Manager, and Dana Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Cobb Chamber of Commerce)

(Groundbreaking ceremony on January 29)

(Rendering the trail extension over Rottenwood Creek.)

(Rendering the trail extension over Rottenwood Creek.)

(Rendering of new trailhead at Windy Hill and Bentley Road intersection.)

Earlier this month, the Cumberland Community Improvement District was awarded a Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Grant by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). The $100,000 grant will fund a creative placemaking plan that identifies opportunities for placemaking initiatives while promoting pedestrian safety and local art.

This announcement by ARC is exciting news,” said Kim Menefee, executive director for the Cumberland CID. “The award is a crucial next step for our thriving District. This study will add a cohesive community plan to further build upon the vibrancy and energy in Cumberland. Whether it is exploring opportunities for public art, activating our many trails, or working together to enhance pedestrian safety, this plan will enrich the Cumberland identity. 

Upon completion of the creative placemaking plan, the Cumberland CID will be eligible to apply for federal transportation funding projects, such as corridor improvements and bike-ped infrastructure, to bring the vision to life.

The LCI program was created in 1999 by ARC to help the region’s communities envision and build healthy, mixed-use, mixed-income developments that help reduce vehicle miles traveled and improve air quality. The program is recognized as a national best practice for how metropolitan planning organizations can lead efforts to alleviate transportation concerns while improving overall quality of life.

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 $23.6 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.

About the Atlanta Regional Commission

The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is the official planning agency for the 11-county Atlanta Region, including Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties as well as the City of Atlanta and 74 other cities. The Atlanta Regional Commission’s mission is to foster thriving communities for all within the Atlanta region through collaborative, data-informed planning, and investments.