press Archives - Cumberland CID

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 »

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 »

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)

Cobb County Board of Commissioners Appoint Matthew Teague to Cumberland Community Improvement District Board of Directors Read More »

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.)

Cumberland Community Improvement District & Cobb County Host Groundbreaking for Bob Callan Trail Extension Read More »

Megan Will has been tapped to be the Cumberland Community Improvement District’s (CID) next Director of Planning & Projects. Megan brings over 20 years of planning experience to the CID. Megan will work and collaborate with internal and external partners to lead and deliver the CID’s portfolio of capital projects and oversee planning studies to identify future projects that further the CID’s work and mission.

“I am thrilled to have Megan join our team,” said Executive Director Kim Menefee. “Megan is the right person to lead our planning efforts as we move forward in the next chapter of advancing a thriving community for Cumberland. Her passion, experience, and leadership will take the Cumberland CID and our team to the next level.”

Megan joined the CID upon returning to Atlanta after a decade of serving as a municipal planner in Florida and Texas. Most recently, Megan was the Director of Planning & Development for the City of Bee Cave, Texas, a suburb of Austin. During her tenure, Megan negotiated entitlements for a variety of place-defining mixed-use developments and managed the city’s engineering, planning, permitting, and code enforcement services. Additionally, Megan has served as a planner for the City of Dripping Springs, TX, and for the Town of Fort Myers Beach, FL. Before working in the public sector, Megan held several senior planner and project manager positions with Atlanta-based engineering firms including Jacobs, Robert and Company, and Draper and Associates.

Megan has a Bachelor of Arts in Historic Preservation from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, VA, and a Master of City and Regional Planning from Georgia Institute of Technology. Megan attended Pope High School and swam with the Stingrays Swim Team while living in East Cobb as a teenager. She and her husband Christian have two school-aged children, Julia and Henry.

Megan Will to Serve as Cumberland CID’s Director of Planning & Projects Read More »

(Via Cobb County Government)

Major League Baseball announced today that the Atlanta Braves, Truist Park, and Cobb County will host the 2025 All-Star Game.

Chairwoman Lisa Cupid released the following statement after the announcement:

I am grateful that Major League Baseball has once again considered Cobb County, Truist Park, and the Atlanta Braves to host the All Star Game in 2025. We have a winning baseball team and community that create a premier destination for this annual occasion. Our restaurants, businesses, and attractions surrounding Truist Park, the Battery, and beyond will create a memorable experience for all. Planning has already begun with Public Safety, and I know our lessons learned in winning the World Series combined with the enthusiasm and support of community partners and citizens, will showcase Cobb as a great place to live, work, and enjoy as we host another successful and impressive event.
——

Other statements:

Major League Baseball
Baseball’s brightest stars will shine bright in Atlanta in 2025. Commissioner Rob Manfred announced Thursday that the 2025 All-Star Game and the accompanying All-Star Week events have been awarded to the Braves, the third time Atlanta will host the Midsummer Classic.

“I commend Terry McGuirk, Derek Schiller, the entire Braves organization and the Atlanta Sports Council for leading this effort,” Manfred said. “As a model of success on and off the field, the Braves deserve to host the All-Star Game. Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta will provide fans a world-class experience in 2025. We look forward to working with the Braves and local leaders to deliver a memorable All-Star Week that brings people together and benefits the community in many ways.”

The 2025 All-Star Game will be the 95th Midsummer Classic, the first held in Atlanta since 2000, when Derek Jeter earned Most Valuable Player honors at Turner Field. The city’s first All-Star Game took place in 1972 at Atlanta Stadium, highlighted by Hank Aaron’s two-run home run that helped pace an NL victory.

Since Truist Park opened in 2017, the Braves have enjoyed a long run of regular-season and postseason success, providing multiple opportunities for fans to enjoy the facility and The Battery Atlanta, a sports and entertainment complex located next to the ballpark.

Atlanta Braves
We are thrilled that Major League Baseball has awarded the 2025 All-Star Game to the Atlanta Braves! This will be an exciting and unique opportunity to showcase all that our organization, our partners, and our city have to offer.

Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta were specially designed for an event like this and will provide the ideal backdrop for the Midsummer Classic. The MLB All-Star Game will join the long list of epic sporting events hosted in Atlanta in recent years, including the Super Bowl, MLS All-Star Game, College Football Playoff National Championship, and more.

We look forward to working alongside MLB and our local businesses and community members to create memorable and impactful experiences for an unforgettable All-Star Week.

Kim Menefee / Executive Director – Cumberland CID
We are proud the Atlanta Braves and Cobb County will host the 2025 All-Star Game in the Cumberland Community Improvement District! The Atlanta Braves and The Battery Atlanta have taken our community to extraordinary levels of economic growth and development while breaking baseball records on the field. Today’s announcement is a marquee achievement for the world-class venue and amenities created by the Braves and a huge win for Cobb and the region. This event will give baseball fans from all over the country the opportunity to experience all that this area has to offer. We look forward to working with all our partners to create memorable experiences that will showcase and support our community.

Cobb Travel and Tourism
Cobb Travel & Tourism (CT&T) is excited that Major League Baseball has awarded the 2025 All-Star Game to the Atlanta Braves and Cobb County. Cobb’s hospitality community is thrilled at the opportunity to welcome visitors to experience All-Star Week activities and make memories in our exceptional destination. This incredible event will showcase Truist Park, The Battery Atlanta and all that Cobb has to offer. CT&T looks forward to working with the Atlanta Braves and our community partners to create an unforgettable experience.

Major League Baseball announces Braves and Cobb County to host 2025 All-Star Game Read More »

CCID Partners with Beep to Develop Learnings for Future Cumberland Sweep Mobility Strategy

The Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID) is proud to announce its partnership with Beep, a national leader in multi-passenger and electric autonomous mobility solutions, to launch the Cumberland Hopper, an autonomous shuttle pilot program providing additional connectivity throughout the Cumberland district. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in transforming transportation options within Cumberland, offering enhanced connectivity, sustainability, and convenience to the business community, residents, and visitors. The pilot program will launch on July 25^th and will operate through March 2024, demonstrating the Cumberland CID’s commitment to delivering safe and reliable mobility options to the growing Cumberland community.

The Cumberland Hopper, presented by the Cumberland CID in collaboration with Beep, will provide an enhanced and efficient complimentary transportation service by leveraging Beep’s advanced autonomous mobility solutions and national experience.

During the pilot program, the Cumberland Hopper autonomous shuttle will operate along two designated routes, connecting key destinations as part of a major mobility project in development by the Cumberland CID called the Cumberland Sweep. The eight-month pilot program will connect visitors, residents, and the community to destinations around Cobb Galleria and to The Battery.

The pilot program’s duration, from July 2023 to March 2024, will provide CCID the data collection, performance evaluation, and community feedback to further define and develop the long-term Cumberland Sweep mobility strategy which will be implemented over the next several years. The Sweep is a three-mile plus corridor of dedicated walking and biking lanes strategically designed to connect key destinations throughout the core of the Cumberland CID. The future multimodal path will improve accessibility, enhance safety, and provide alternative transportation options, reducing reliance on traditional car commutes. With the Cumberland Sweep, the business community, residents, and visitors can effortlessly traverse the Cumberland area, accessing prominent locations such as The Battery Atlanta, Truist Park, Cumberland Mall, Cobb Galleria Centre, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, and the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA), reducing carbon emissions and improved traffic flow.

“We are excited to partner with Beep, a leader in autonomous mobility, to bring the Cumberland Hopper autonomous shuttle pilot program to the Cumberland CID,” said Kim Menefee, Executive Director of the Cumberland CID. “By embracing Beep’s cutting-edge solutions, we are providing our community with a sustainable and convenient transportation option that prioritizes connectivity and safety. The Cumberland Hopper presented by the Cumberland CID represents our commitment to innovation and progress, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our district.”

Beep, renowned for its expertise in autonomous mobility solutions, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Cumberland Hopper pilot program as the autonomous solution provider having multiple active deployments across the county. As a trusted partner, Beep’s commitment to sustainability, safety, and reliability aligns perfectly with the Cumberland CID’s vision for sustainable growth and connectivity within the district.

“We are delighted to partner with the Cumberland CID to bring autonomous mobility to the Cumberland community,” said Joe Moye, CEO, Beep, Inc. “Our cutting-edge autonomous solutions are designed to provide equal access to transportation and streamlined connectivity to communities across the country. The Cumberland Hopper pilot program exemplifies our shared mission of providing safe and effective transportation, and we are excited to showcase the benefits of autonomous mobility to the Cumberland CID.”

The launch of the Cumberland Hopper pilot program as part of the development of the Cumberland Sweep project marks a significant milestone in the Cumberland CID’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobility and foster economic growth within the district. By collaborating with Beep, the Cumberland CID reinforces its position as a catalyst for sustainable development and progress. Learn more about the Cumberland Hopper at https://cumberlandsweep.org/

Cumberland CID Launches Autonomous Shuttle Pilot Program, Plans for Future Growth Read More »