Dekalb County Market Report Special Section • May 26-June 1, 2017 • Section C

DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT SPECIAL SECTION • MAY 26-JUNE 1, 2017 • SECTION C

R CLOSER LOOK

R New grand entrance linking Atlanta Sports City and The Mall at Stonecrest will add an additional 250,000 square feet of restaurants, attractions, retail and green space as an open-air feature to the mall. R The new entryway will cost between $45 million and $50 million. R Construction on entryway should begin irst quarter 2018.

BYRON E. SMALL Developers are adding retail and medical services to Atlanta Sports City at Stonecrest.

RENDERINGSPECIAL Medical, retail added to massive GETTING THE Atlanta Sports City complex BALL ROLLING BY GARY MCKILLIPS square feet of restaurants, attractions, Boden also said Emory Physical Ther- Contributing writer retail, and green space. apy will be located within the pavilion Patrick Henderson, CEO of Atlanta and offer recovery and rehabilitative ser- tlanta Sports City, the second Sports Connection, which runs Atlanta vices as well as providing therapists to largest multi-sports complex in Sports City, said with these new additions, the Southeast, will now contain “we are servicing the entire family which CONTINUED ON PAGE 10C a sports medicine facility and a has been our emphasis and motivation major retail component. since the start.” ASecond in size only to Disney Sports The Sports Medicine Pavilion will Complex in Orlando, Fla., Atlanta Sports be a 10,000-square foot facility with a City is collaborating with Emory Health- high-quality MRI scanner. Scott Boden, care to anchor its Sports Medicine Pavil- chief medical officer for Emory ion and to create a Medical Office Health University’s Orthopaedics Park which will support the 200-acre and Spine Center, called facility adjacent to The Mall at Stonecrest. the scanner “extremely Atlanta Sports City officials also unique for a compe- announced a partnership with Urban tition venue of this Retail Properties LLC, man- kind.” ager of e Mall at Stonecrest. is partnership will involve construction of a new grand entrance and sports-themed pedes- trian promenade, providing a seamless link between the mall and the sports complex. e new entryway, which will cost between $45 million and $50 million, will add an additional 250,000 2C ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE MAY 26JUNE 1, 2017 DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT

TOURISM New DeKalb attractions lure visitors BY KAREN COHEN people outdoors and living a healthier Contributing writer Dinosaur Explore includes lifestyle,” said Betsy Eggers, board chair interactive adventures at Stone of Peachtree Creek Greenway Inc. From forests to dinosaurs, DeKalb County Mountain Park. Peachtree Creek Greenway Inc. is the families and visitors will find more to advocacy group working to bring the explore this summer with the opening proposed path to reality. e organiza- of new exhibits and attractions. tion foresees the greenway enhancing Stone Mountain Park is a popular the environment, encouraging economic DeKalb County family attraction. New to opportunities and promoting healthy the park this year is the Dinosaur Explore lifestyles. “e pathway would help with exhibit. land erosion and watershed issues,” said e collection includes more than 20 Eggers. “In addition, there would be more life-size dinosaurs with special effects oversight and eyes on the creek to ensure allowing them to move and roar. safe water quality.” “Stone Mountain is always looking And, while many DeKalb residents for new attractions,” said Jeanine Jones, have dealt with road infrastructure public relations manager at Stone Moun- issues, the pathway offers an alternative tain Park. “When we heard the Dinosaur to driving. “e Peachtree Creek Green- Explore exhibit was available, we thought way is more than a linear park, it would it was a home run.” be a transportation mode that follows Dinosaur Explore features 20 dino- SPECIAL I-85,” said Eggers. e city of Brook- saurs representing 14 species, T. Rex meet Last fall, Fernbank opened its lat- exhibits, trailside experiences and edu- haven has already committed to a three- and greets, baby dinosaur interactions est permanent exhibit, WildWoods, an cational programs. “WildWoods allows us mile linear park along Peachtree Creek and a dino dig play area. In addition, the interactive pathway connecting the inside to expand the hands on and enrichment in Brookhaven. Initial visioning, stake- Dinotorium includes a four-level indoor museum to the outside forest. activities at Fernbank,” said Warner. holder involvement and planning started jungle gym. An elevated walkway takes visitors Adding to the existing DeKalb rec- in 2015 for Peachtree Creek Greenway e exhibit creates interactive oppor- through the tree- reational attractions, the county has a at Brookhaven. tunities for the whole family. “ere is tops to enjoy sce- vision for a new 12-mile linear park and It is expected to something unique about discovering and nic views. “Wild- path along North Fork Peachtree Creek cost roughly $35 learning as a family,” said Jones. Woods allows guest connecting northeast metro commu- million. Jones says families can spend a full to connect with the nities to each other and to the Atlanta Chamblee has day at Stone Mountain and stay for the natural world in a BeltLine. e proposed Peachtree Creek also been work- nightly laser show. “DeKalb is home to new way. Visitors Greenway is part of DeKalb County and ing on its trail con- some of the state’s best attractions. Dino- will turn on their PATH Foundation’s master plan created nectivity system. saur Explore is another reason to visit and senses and experi- in 1999. e proposed pathway would e city is looking stay in DeKalb County,” she said. Jennifer Grant ence the sights and go through the cities of Atlanta, Brook - Jodie Gilfillan to extend the cur- Fernbank Museum of Natural History Warner sounds of nature,” haven and Chamblee and unincorporated rent Chamblee Rail brings science to life through its pro- said Jennifer Grant DeKalb County. Trail, a 0.9 acre lin- gramming and exhibits. It is also home Warner, incoming president and CEO at The greenway would bring recre- ear park constructed along abandoned to Fernbank Forest, a 65-acre old-growth Fernbank. ational advantages to its residents and railroad spurs. forest. WildWoods includes interactive visitors. “e pathway would get more A rail extension study was completed to design an extension that will continue to use abandoned railroad tracks that pass between downtown buildings from Chamblee Tucker Road to Chamblee Dunwoody Road. Chamblee City Council approved and adopted the study last summer. “is is a five-year phased imple- mentation plan. e city of Chamblee is currently surveying all the land and working with MARTA regarding access through some of its property,” said Jodie Gilfillan, director of Chamblee Parks and Recreations Department.

Dinosaur Explore at Stone Mountain Park and WildWoods at Fernbank Museum of Natural History are two new attractions in DeKalb County this year.

JOANN VITELLI SPECIAL R CLOSER LOOK DINOSAUR EXPLORE AT STONE MOUNTAIN WILDWOODS AT FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY R Dinosaur Explore features 20 dinosaurs R WildWoods features 10 acres of woodland adventures R Fernbank Forest is illed with 64 species of trees up to 300 representing 14 species R The Montgomery High Line Trace in WildWoods takes years old and 156 feet tall—including 31 champion trees R 10 additional employee positions were added for visitors from the woodland loor to the incredible heights R Fernbank Forest’s diversity includes 156 bird species, 13 the new Dinosaur Explore attraction of the tree canopy – at some points 30 feet o the ground. mammal species, 92 native herbs and wildlowers. R Stone Mountain Park has 4 million visitors R At 65 acres, Fernbank Forest is the largest old-growth annually forest of its kind in a major metropolitan area DK C C Large enough to serve you…small enough to know you

Catherine Downey, CatMedia Robert Blazer, Your DeKalb Farmer’s Market

Katerina Taylor, President and CEO General Membership Meeting

Our mission is to be the catalyst that attracts, supports, and advances business interests in DeKalb County, Georgia.

Our work is reﬂ ected in our four core focuses:

Economic Public Education and Member Development Advocacy Workforce Development Services

2017 PRIORITY GOALS

I Increase visibility of DeKalb Chamber’s work in the community I De ne DeKalb Chamber as the resource portal for business information and connection I Advocate for a business-friendly environment in DeKalb County and the metro Atlanta region I Create an inviting environment that supports business expansion and growth of new entrepreneurs

DeKalb Chamber of Commerce Visit us at dekalbchamber.org Follow us @ 125 Clairemont Avenue Road, Suite 235 dekalbchamber Decatur, GA 30030 dekalbchamber www.dekalbchamber.org dekalbchamberga 404-378-8000 dekalbchamberga 4C ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE MAY 26JUNE 1, 2017 DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT

REDEVELOPMENT Brownﬁelds giving way to new projects

Michele Ritan of East Decatur Greenway is working to clean up an area oﬀ Columbia Drive. e site will become a trailhead for a new 1.1-mile segment of a PATH Foundation trail.

R CLOSER LOOK WHY DEVELOP BROWNFIELDS? R Improves human and environmental health R Protects water quality R Increases the tax base R Reduces sprawl R Spurs economic development BY DOUG DELOACH R Creates jobs Contributing writer R Eliminates blight R Helps attract and retain businesses As the remaking of metro Atlanta con- SOURCE: DECIDE DEKALB DEVELOPMENT tinues apace, cleaning up and re-purpos- AUTHORITY ing some of the area’s most problematic properties requires more than a moti- vated developer with a permit, a bull- were unable to complete the work with dozer and a construction crew. the funds we had,” said East Decatur In 2012, DeKalb County secured from Greenway founder and director Michele the Environmental Protection Agency Ritan who has a background in nonprofit a $900,000 Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) fund-raising in higher education. “e grant to spur reclamation of hazard- site was built on fill dirt and the petro- ous sites known as “brownfields.” In leum had migrated into the ground in 2015, the county received an additional ways the contractors did not anticipate.” $300,000 to continue working on brown- When Ritan contacted the Geor- fields, which are properties where past gia Environmental Protection Division use indicates the likely presence of con- about registering the property in the taminated soil or water. e RLF program PHOTOS BY JOANN VITELLI state’s brownfields program, the head of is being administered by Decide DeKalb the agency suggested contacting Region Development Authority (DDDA) through asbestos in preparation for the develop- “The developer’s vision is a walk- 4 of the EPA, which is headquartered in an intergovernmental agreement. ment of Granite Crossing, a mixed-use able and transit-connected residential Atlanta. “rough the RLF program, EPA and housing project. and business hub, which will bring new “ey were already interested in the DDDA are seeking to strengthen the The public-private partnership parks, restaurants and other amenities, site,” Ritan said. marketplace by encouraging stakehold- between the city and Wendover Hous- as well as a sense of place, to Doraville,” e EPA extended about $120,000 to ers in DeKalb County to leverage avail- ing Partners calls for building 75 apart- Register said. dig up three 8,000-gallon underground able resources to clean up and rede- ment units and completely transforming e East Decatur Greenway, a non- storage tanks. In addition to contam- velop brownfields,” said Roger Register, the plaza. Construction, which began in profit entity, recently received a favor- inated soil and groundwater, asbestos National Brownfields Practice Leader at November 2016, is slated for completion able recommendation from the DDDA was found in an abandoned convenience Cardno Consulting. by the end of the year. Brownfields Subcommittee for funding a store, which had operated on the prop- RLF loans are made to private for-profit “We are now researching to determine subgrant in the amount of $86,639. e erty for some years after the gas station entities while subgrants are awarded to whether there are other opportunities to funds will be used to complete remedia- closed. nonprofits or governmental organiza- reclaim these types of sites,” said Litho- tion of petroleum-contaminated ground- Georgia EPD officials recommended tions. When the loans are repaid, the nia Mayor Deborah Jackson. water and soil at 890 Columbia Drive, installing a rain garden to help control funds are again made available to other e other recipient of a loan from the site of an abandoned gas station origi- storm water and facilitate phytoremedi- eligible borrowers. DDDA-administered RLF program is the nally built around 1941. During the past ation. Phytoremediation is a cost-effec- “e first step for any applicant is to get former Doraville GM Assembly Plant, three years the greenway organization, tive technique, which takes advantage the property assessed to determine the which is under redevelopment by The which will provide $21,325 in matching of the natural ability of plants to accu- potential contamination,” Register said. Integral Group. Integral received approx- funds, has been working to transform mulate, degrade or render harmless con- “e RLF program can fund cleanup only imately $502,000 to assist with remedi- the property into community greenspace taminants in soil, water and air. Accord- after an assessment is completed.” ation of petroleum and hazardous waste and provide a trailhead for the new 1.1- ing to Ritan, the EPA sees the East Decatur To date, two projects in DeKalb County in certain areas of the 165-acre site. e mile segment of a PATH Foundation trail. Greenway project as a model for commu- have been officially funded through the original loan, which paved the way for Approval of the recommendation, which nities facing similar problems. RLF program. One is the former Lithonia construction of the Nalley Collision Cen- will be reviewed by the full DDDA board, “e EPD and EPA have been tremen- Shopping Plaza parcel owned by the city ter, Nalley Infiniti and Nissan dealerships is expected. dously supportive,” Ritan said. “They of Lithonia, which received a subgrant of along I-285, was repaid with interest in “e initial remediation occurred in believed in the project and wanted to see $182,000 to assist with the abatement of 2017. November and December of 2015, but we it completed.” DISCOVER THE WORLD IN DEKALB

Things You Should Know About Atlanta’s DeKalb

- Over 75 Hotels | More than 8,900 Guest Rooms | Over 169,000 sq. ft. of Total Meeting/Exhibit Space - Home to Stone Mountain Park and the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort - Convenient to the Emory Conference Center Hotel, Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University and the CDC - Chartered, Commercial and Private Flights at PDK Airport, Georgia’s second busiest - Since the 1996 Olympics, DeKalb has been host to regional and national sporting events including NCAA competitions - International shopping and dining along Buford Highway’s International Corridor

Discover DeKalb for your meeting and travel needs.

From boutique conferences in a resort location to small meetings in a university setting, you’ll ﬁ nd the perfect meeting site just east of downtown Atlanta in DeKalb. Visitors and residents can always discover something old and new in DeKalb. Visit us at discoverdekalb.com

#DISCOVERDEKALB 6C ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE MAY 26-JUNE 1, 2017 DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT

SMALL BUSINESS DeKalb Chamber of Commerce declares 2017 ‘Th e Year of the Entrepreneur’ BY JANET JONES KENDALL through fee-based Contributing writer training programs and no-cost, con- In 2012, Access to Capital for Entrepre- fidential, one-on- neurs (ACE) helped provide startup capi- one consulting. tal to the entrepreneurs behind The Pine- Local cham- wood gastropub in Decatur, helping the bers, congres- neighborhood bar and grill create 12 full- sional offices, time jobs and three part-time jobs. economic devel- Th e eatery has seen such success that Sharon opment groups, within a few years, owners opened a sec- Macaluso banks, CPAs and ond restaurant, The Mercury, in Ponce other professionals City Market. refer business owners to the SBDC as well Another DeKalb business, Rainey when that owner is looking for access to Apparel Manufacturing Inc., a manu- capital, needing assistance with strategic facturer and wholesaler of postoperative planning to grow, looking for guidance compression garments, received funding on marketing, learning about govern- from ACE to purchase additional equip- ment procurement or any other number ment to allow for higher production to of functions that will impact a business’ meet demand, which resulted in the hir- sustainability and success. ing of seven additional employees. All SBDC consultants are employees of With offi ces in Atlanta, Cleveland and the university and all have MBA degrees Norcross, ACE is a nonprofi t organization and several years of business experience, that provides loans and business devel- owning their own business, working in opment resources to help its borrowers corporate America, or both. create and grow sustainable businesses “Our offi ce works closely with other which generate jobs. organizations and entities that are also JOANN VITELLI In DeKalb County, ACE has proven focused on promoting economic devel- Grace Fricks, president and CEO at Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs, right, itself to be of great benefit to area opment through entrepreneurship,” said visits Couleen LaGon, who runs Th e Marchen Sagen Academy in Decatur. entrepreneurs. Macaluso, who also serves as co-chair for “We already have a track record of help- the DeKalb Chamber’s Small Business Th e chamber itself also works to help “We believe that the chamber will con- ing grow businesses in DeKalb County,” Advisory Council. “Th ese organizations entrepreneurs get sure footing, Daniels tinue to foster an innovative and diverse said Grace Fricks, president and CEO of include local chambers of commerce, said. business environment that allows for ACE. “We have lent $4.1 million over the county and city economic development “We advocate on behalf of small busi- growth throughout DeKalb County, while last 10 years to 60 businesses.” groups, to name a few. We partner with nesses and work to hold DeKalb County providing a significant return on our As a result of its success there, starting these organizations to bring our services accountable,” Daniels said. “If a small membership investment,” Daniels said. this summer, ACE will work with DeKalb and resources to their communities and business is having issues acquiring a “We have begun our strategic plan by County to provide a microloan program membership.” business license, we work on their behalf declaring 2017 as ‘Th e Year of the Entre- (loans of $35,000 or under) to residents One of SBDC’s signature programs is and determine the next steps.” preneur’ and thus our programming, who want to start or expand a small busi- GrowSmart, a 35-hour, facilitated train- In addition, the chamber has plans to seminars and events will incorporate ness and hopefully create at least one job. ing program, which incorporates a peer- develop its website to act as the clearing- entrepreneurship at every level into our “DeKalb County is providing the cap- to-peer learning environment for busi- house for business information, acting value proposition for member success.” ital for its citizens and ACE is managing nesses that have been in business three as a liaison for improving governmental As area director for the SBDC who works their capital, including prudent due dili- years or longer, have a minimum of interaction on issues such as acquiring out of DeKalb County, Sharon Macaluso gence for loans,” Fricks said. “Th e Urban $300,000 in annual revenues and are permits, licensing, investment, fi nanc- works to provide technical assistance League of Atlanta will be providing busi- focused on growth. Th e program is pre- ing and procurement opportunities. to business owners and entrepreneurs ness training to help prepare the busi- sented around the state and is available to ness owners to be successful and to use DeKalb entrepreneurs in the metro area the microloans to the greatest advantage at least two times a year. of the business. ...Th is program is going R BY THE NUMBERS “We find that businesses that take to enable DeKalb County, ACE and the advantage of our services outperform Urban League to increase these numbers Th rough partnership with Th e University of Georgia’s Small Business Develop- those businesses that do not,” Macaluso dramatically and help more businesses.” ment Center, DeKalb County is able to provide training, consulting, tools and said. “For example, in 2016, the aver- ACE is one of several successful entre- resources to help small businesses grow and succeed. As a result: age Georgia business grew sales 5.5 per- preneur support programs in place in R In 2016, the average Georgia business grew sales 5.5 percent compared to cent compared to those businesses that DeKalb County. those businesses that worked with the SBDC, whose sales grew by 12 percent. worked with the SBDC, whose sales grew Th e county has also partnered with by 12 percent. Employment growth of the R Employment growth of the average Georgia business was 2.9 percent, The University of Georgia’s Small Busi- average Georgia business was 2.9 percent, compared to the 15.5 percent average employment growth of businesses who ness Development Center (SBDC) to compared to the 15.5 percent average worked with Georgia SBDC. provide training, consulting, tools and employment growth of businesses who R resources to help small businesses grow In Georgia’s fourth Congressional district — which includes DeKalb County worked with Georgia SBDC.” and succeed and with NOWAccount — from 2012-2016, the SBDC consulted or trained 1,841 individuals that were “A successful ecosystem for entrepre- which allows DeKalb Chamber of Com- current business owners or preparing to start a business. neurial growth helps not only the large merce members to gain quick access to R In the same district, the SBDC assisted in the start of 58 new businesses, companies but the small main street capital. and assisted clients in attaining almost $14 million in capital to grow their businesses as well,” Fricks said. “Build- “Th ese partnerships are vital to our businesses. ing out the entrepreneurial ecosystem at overall goal of developing and grow- R Over the past fi ve years, Georgia SBDC clients started 1,658 new businesses, all stages of development is the goal. Our ing 100 new entrepreneurial ventures in created 12,472 new jobs, raised $722 million in capital through loans and partnership is one of the fi rst steps.” DeKalb County,” said Fred Daniels, chair equity fi nancing, and realized $10.3 billion in sales. of the board of the DeKalb Chamber. > Bond financing > Site selection > Small business resources > Workforce programs

Intown Locations: Emory Point Business Districts: Perimeter

Industrial Locations: Doraville

New Developments: Brookhaven

Decide DeKalb serves as the primary economic development driving force to attract, expand and Historic Districts: Brookhaven retain businesses in DeKalb County, Georgia.

We work with partners, stakeholders and the business community to spur capital investments, encourage job growth and create business sustainability.

DeKalb County...the perfect place for business. Retail Spaces: Lithonia

To learn more about DeKalb’s potential for your business visit DecideDekalb.com/explore

@DecideDeKalb 8C ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE MAY 26JUNE 1, 2017 DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT VIEWPOINT DeKalb: A diverse place where business thrives ne of DeKalb County’s great- Michael L. Interstates 285, 85, 675 and 20 as well capacity and blight in residential and est assets is diversity; not just urmond is as major state highways and county thor- commercial areas. ose are challenges O in its people, but its educa- DeKalb County oughfares. It is easy to travel throughout I am addressing head-on and have made tional opportunities, established indus- CEO. the county or access DeKalb-Peachtree a priority to ensure we never miss an tries, modes of transportation, neigh- Airport, the largest commuter airport economic development opportunity borhoods and communities, landscape and the second largest airport in Georgia. because of disappointing factors within and so much more. ese factors create e county is also one of the few in metro our control. an attractive and energetic ecosystem for Atlanta served by MARTA, with rail stations We’re addressing sewer capacity with a businesses and their workforces and cus- and a well-connected bus network. Several cleaning contract that targets major trunk job fairs, market research and planning. tomers to thrive. Despite these longstand- transit-oriented developments have been lines — lines that haven’t been cleaned in ing assets, we face several challenges, and announced at MARTA stations in DeKalb, 50 years and have spots that are clogged Education I am working with our county commis- creating well-connected environments for with tree roots, debris and fats, oils and DeKalb is home to 12 colleges and uni- sioners to enhance infrastructure that residents and businesses. grease (FOG). We’re cracking down on versities including Agnes Scott College, will spur economic growth. FOG with enforcement as well as edu- Columbia eological Seminary, Emory A place to thrive cating businesses and residents on the University, Georgia Piedmont Technical Dynamic workforce Diversity breathes life into the cultural, detriment it poses to our sewers. DeKalb College, Georgia State University Geor- With more than 700,000 residents, pre- arts, shopping and dining scenes around Watershed Management is addressing gia-Perimeter College and Oglethorpe mier higher education institutions and an the county. Cities and neighborhoods capacity with robust mapping and its University. ese top-notch institutions array of businesses that call DeKalb home, carve out distinct characteristics, each capital improvement projects. prepare students to excel in trades, busi- including engineering, manufacturing adding to the richness of life in DeKalb Addressing neighborhood and com- ness, medicine and more. and technology, DeKalb’s citizens are well and ensuring that there is a place in mercial-corridor blight is an on-going DeKalb County School District is a trained and equipped for employment. which everyone feels welcome. multi-departmental initiative in DeKalb. leader in STEM curriculum, with 10 cer- More than 100 languages are spoken and DeKalb is home to a lush tree canopy, Since I took office Jan. 1, I have worked tified schools and programs in more than countries represented in DeKalb, provid- large parks and natural wonders, such as alongside county leadership and officials 90 schools. Students can receive tailored ing global perspectives and resources. Arabia Mountain and Stone Mountain, to determine root causes of issues that education with school choice options, We work with many partners including which is the largest tourist attraction in have plagued DeKalb for years. Working such as theme, magnet, international Decide DeKalb, local chambers of commerce Georgia. Bicyclists and pedestrians ben- together with municipalities and busi- baccalaureate and Montessori. and community improvement districts. efit from a large PATH network of trails ness leaders, we are building a DeKalb DeKalb is also home to City Schools of WorkSource DeKalb provides business that connect residents to other cities, that showcases the assets it already has Decatur, which annually ranks in the top solutions for hiring, training and retain- neighborhoods and attractions. — its people, location and resources — 10 districts in Georgia for SAT performance. ing employees to businesses within the while tackling the liabilities that have county. e organization helps its clients Improving infrastructure slowed growth. Now is a prime time to Accessible transportation through recruitment and staffing, custom- As a county, we have experienced chal- invest or reinvest with us as we reach our DeKalb County is a transportation ized training and workshops, internships, lenges including leadership, sewer full potential. and logistics hub, with easy access to

STARRING ROLES County forms commission to woo film industry BY H.M. CAULEY and digital entertainment world. Now union that crews movies has more than “We have to promote how strong this Contributing writer we’re looking to make improvements to 600 people living in the county, but they county is,” said Greenberg. “at means bring more arts into the area.” work elsewhere in other parts of the state.” bringing a lot of rather spread out groups e impact of the film and music industry e idea to establish a commission By promoting DeKalb as a destination, together so they know what’s here.” in Georgia is evident in the growing num- to woo film projects to DeKalb was the Greenberg hopes to draw more produc- Talbert agrees that marketing is key ber of crews filming on city streets and brainchild of Andrew Greenberg, who tions to keep those workers close to home. to bringing more business to DeKalb. booking studios around the metro area. now chairs the group. Greenberg came “We already have Black Hall Studios (off “We have to get the word out there that It’s seen in the movies and television up with the concept after brainstorm- Constitution Road S.E.) and ird Rail DeKalb is a major destination for loca- shows that make Atlanta their home base ing ways to gen- in Doraville. Now the goal is to ensure tion shooting in Georgia, with many loca- and support the local economy while erate film, music more places like these become perma- tions that can double for other parts of they’re intown. Along with attractive tax and digital enter- nent opportunities for DeKalb residents.” the country or the world, if need be,” she incentives, the state created a dedicated tainment oppor- e commission has set three main said. “One way to do that is to develop film academy to train workers for the tunities for county goals: to promote what DeKalb has in a film, music and digital entertainment burgeoning business. residents. terms of workforce, facilities and loca- district, and we’re working on that now. While the state’s film office plays a “We’re not about tions; to improve those offerings; and to A district that promotes film and music significant role in connecting these pro- getting a slice of the support the needs of the film and music production will also support the tour- ductions to crews and locations, DeKalb pie; it’s about cre- industries by connecting them to a com- ism industry and bring more dining and County has taken the initiative to form Andrew ating a much larger petent, local workforce. shopping.” its own film, music and digital entertain- Greenberg pie,” said Green- “e new office acts as a hub for all When it comes to wooing productions, ment commission to get in on the star- berg. “Most people these industries, bringing them together DeKalb has already scored several suc- studded action. e all-volunteer group in the entertainment industry see that and promoting them or supporting their cesses, thanks in large part to a stream- held its first meeting six months ago. the state has a huge amount potential for needs,” said Greenberg. “Particularly on lined permitting process that makes it “is is a big step in the right direc- expanding what’s already in place. at’s the film side, I think the state has done a easier for crews to shoot in the county. tion that has been in the planning stages particularly true of digital entertainment; great job of addressing workforce short- e Netflix drama “Stranger ings” and for quite a while,” said Beth Talbert, vice it’s just exploded, going from eight stu- ages, but on the game and digital side, we sections of the “Fast and Furious” mov- president of studio operations for Eagle dios to well over 100.” have a constant need for computer pro - ies have been shot there, as have the TV Rock Studios Atlanta, a production com- DeKalb has a wealth of locations for grammers, digital artists and designers.” shows “Devious Maids” and the upcom- pany based in Norcross. She was also filming, recording and producing both e initial proposals the commission ing “e Gospel According to Kevin.” named as one of the new commission’s films and music, said Greenberg, and has has put before officials revolve around “Too often, everyone operates in their members. “It points the county toward a willing workforce to support projects. meeting those workforce needs and mar- own little bubbles,” said Talbert. “But it’s having a presence in the film industry “We are already home to many people keting DeKalb to make it as attractive as important for us to work together and and presenting a united front to the film working in these fields,” he said. “e main possible to industry execs. have a united front.” MAY 26JUNE 1, 2017 ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE 9C DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT

VIEWPOINT DeKalb County schools are evolving each day volution rarely occurs in leaps and R. Stephen Green Again, evolution is a series of steps. A college-ready the moment they leave bounds. Rather, it is the sum of is superintendent lot of steps. Here are some of our recent our halls. E footsteps made over time, through of the DeKalb footprints: Perhaps most important is funda- a series of events. e goal is to make such County School R We are evolving through Science, mental change that elevates the perfor- progress that you fundamentally improve District. Technology, Engineering and Math mance of our schoolhouses. Of the many your station in your life, for all time. (STEM) education, with more than 20 achievements of DCSD recently, we were at is the evolution of the DeKalb schools to date that have been certified most pleased that five schools in the County School District. Each day, every either through AdvancED or the Georgia DeKalb County School District increased step and every experience of our stu- Department of Education. is includes student achievement levels enough to dents moves them, our school district for a five-year extension, through 2022. Henderson Mill Elementary, Georgia’s exit the state’s Focus and Priority lists and DeKalb County closer to our ultimate Two years ago, the district faced the first Science, Technology, Engineering, for underperforming Title I schools. at goal. We will become the nation’s fore- uncertainty of the community’s desire Art and Math (STEAM)-certified school. only occurs through evolved student most deep teaching and learning pub- to renew its Education Special-Purpose achievement. R We are growing through the delivery lic school system, devotedly dedicated to Local-Option Sales Tax (e-SPLOST). In DCSD, we know what we are, and of our teaching and learning. Today’s graduating students that are college and Today, we are building and renovating what we are not. While the sun is ris - students demand teaching that includes career ready. schools following a nearly 71-percent ing, it’s not high in the sky just yet. We heavy doses of project-based experience, What a lofty goal, you say? Sure it is. mandate by voters to renew the tax. In have much work ahead, and many more and technology that aligns with their And you don’t get there with sweeping fact, DCSD was able to get a head start on mountains of achievement to climb. To learning needs. In March 2017, DCSD swings of a pendulum. You evolve over those projects by issuing bonds, months meet those challenges, we are becom- took only the first of several planned time, with a relentless focus and the before the tax is actually collected, with ing stronger, more efficient, and more courageous steps to replace its fractured, resolve of someone terrified of remaining very favorable interest rates based on focused. dated curriculum with a 21st century the same. You evolve with support that upgrades to its financial ratings. e DeKalb County School District blueprint that provides the flexibility comes with Building TRUST, together, One year ago, DCSD and other school is evolving each day. From the moment required to adjust to the learning needs with the community. districts in Georgia were threatened by the we engage our students, we will set the of all students. And we refuse to wait until the future loss of local control over the turnaround standard. Students will learn in top notch to reap our results. efforts of challenged schools. Today, the R Our evolution is marrying that buildings, be nurtured and enriched by Five years ago, the DeKalb County district is charting its own homegrown curriculum blueprint with extensions effective teachers and administrators, School District had been downgraded turnaround path through a cutting-edge of our Advanced Placement courses, and with access to first-class tools and tech- to “accredited probation” status by school leadership review system designed a laser-focus on our blossoming Career, nology. We are not there yet, but the evo- AdvancED, the global education accred- to raise the floor of achievement, and Technical and Agricultural Education lution is well underway. iting agency. In 2016, the district’s full the Horizon initiative to inject under- (CTAE) Programs. Students earn real- We invite you to take note of the jour- accreditation was restored. Today, that performing campuses with a boost of world work experience, and enroll in ney and to join the journey. accreditation has been recommended student successes. rigorous courses that help them become

FINDING SOLUTIONS Oﬃcials working on transportation needs

BY RANDY SOUTHERLAND $110 million a year for road repaving, “We truly understand that transpor- committee and we’ll bring in an issue Contributing writer police facilities, fire stations, sidewalks, tation is one of those things that has in to the full board,” said Taylor Wright, a libraries and other infrastructure. the past allowed the county to stand out, vice president with Atkins North Amer- DeKalb County’s recent success in getting For issues such as transportation, the but also allowed us to be competitive ica who serves as co-chair of the commit- a new special purpose local option sales county engages in an extensive process of within the region,” tee. “We’ll try to explain what’s going on tax (SPLOST) referendum to fund trans- evaluation to determine where it needs to said chamber Pres- with regards to the issue, what it’s about, portation through the General Assem- spend money. ident Katerina Tay- what the implications are for the issue.” bly is one more example of how county “Overall we evaluated all of our nearly lor. “We really focus e county and legislative delegation officials, state legislators and the cham- 2,000 miles of roads that we to deter- on what’s good for are represented on chamber committees ber are working together to advance com- mine whether they need repair or repav- business and how to ensure they have a voice as the organi- mon goals. ing,” said DeKalb County CEO Michael to continue to zation develops its own initiatives. “It’s hard enough try to move a piece urmond. “What we determined most acquire new busi- “We look at those things and meet of legislation through the General Assem- recently was that 20 percent of our roads ness opportunities, with people at the county and with other bly and to work — about 400 miles — were in immedi- Katerina but also sustain the stakeholders,” said Taylor. “All the peo- against your own ate need of repair and resurfacing and Taylor businesses that we ple who serve on our board are business local folks you’re we used GDOT (Georgia Department of have.” owners or work for a company that does sitting yourself up Transportation) standards to make that e chamber’s initiatives typically are business or is headquartered in DeKalb.” for failure,” said determination.” formulated by its transportation infra- e chamber plays a vital role in issues, state Rep. Howard urmond said historically DeKalb has structure committee. is body works such as the upcoming SPLOST referen- Mosby, who serves been “revenue starved” in terms of dollars with members and elected officials to dum, that must go before the voters. as chairman of the for resurfacing. formulate and support policy. While county government can only pro- DeKalb County “We worked very closely with the “It’s an ad hoc group that meets during vide basic factual information about the Howard House Delegation. (DeKalb legislative) delegation and we sessions and times when there is a lot of measure, the chamber can take an advo- Mosby “It’s best that we were able to develop bipartisan con- transportation talk, during times where cacy role to urge citizens to support a par- work together.” sensus in the House and Senate,” said maybe there is a SPLOST that we’re try- ticular measure. As chair of the Georgia House delega- urmond. ing to bring to the table or one that we’re “e chamber is truly a convener,” tion, Mosby has worked to ensure that e DeKalb County Chamber of Com- trying to support and get passed,” said said the chamber president. “We will legislation affecting DeKalb County is in merce has been a supporter of transpor- Taylor. bring people together. We have one shot line with the county’s proposals. tation issues in the county. While the These issues typically emerge after to make sure transportation happens in “We have to make sure we’re on the organization develops its own transpor- extensive discussion among cham- this particular way or order based on our same page as the county to advance the tation agenda it also works to ensure that ber members who are focused on goals and our shared vision for DeKalb same agenda,” said Mosby. its needs of the county and state legisla- transportation. and the region.” is year’s SPLOST is projected to raise tive delegation. “We discuss it in the transportation 10C ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE MAY 26-JUNE 1, 2017 DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT GM REDEVELOPMENT Assembly projects should start soon

BY RANDY SOUTHERLAND reuse. Th e project was developed by Cap- Contributing writer Third Rail Studios is stone South Properties in partnership just one new project at with the Integral Group. It’s been a long time coming, but redevel- Assembly. Among recent productions at the stu- opment of the massive General Motors site dio are the comedy, “An Actor Prepares,” in Doraville is beginning to take shape. starring Jeremy Irons and the New Line Businesses have already sprung up on feature fi lm “Rampage,” starring Dwayne parts of the 160-acre property and the Johnson, which will occupy the entire site’s main developer is making strides facility into mid-2017, according to pub- toward fulfi lling a master plan that envi- lished reports. sions a $2 billion mixed-use redevelop- Th e more than 160-acre property has ment of offi ces, apartments, retail, and been regarded as one of the most promis- entertainment options. ing redevelopment sites in the Southeast, Christened Assembly, the project is but has been hampered by delays in gain- being led by Atlanta-based The Integral ing approval for public fi nancing of infra- Group LLC. structure through a tax allocation district. Th e company has undertaken a mas- “It was slowed just a little bit with the sive eff ort to prepare the site for new RENDERING/SPECIAL need for more public dollars for infra- development. In the past two years, more structure,” said Kelly. “I think it could than 90,000 tons of material has been “We have been negotiating with about board of directors. “Th at is really our ulti- have happened a little faster if we could carried from the site. half a dozen users of all types offi ce, retail mate goal of the GM site to see job creation have gotten the school board to support Th e company has also been working entertainment and we have projects in the community whether it’s directly or the TAD [tax allocation district], but each with local governments to secure public lined up some of which will start later indirectly related to the GM project.” entity has to make their own decision.” funding for roads and other infrastruc- this year,” said Integral Group founder Some of those jobs have already come While progress was slowed, it never ture improvements. and CEO Egbert Perry. “It hasn’t been back in the form of development on out came to a stop. Th e size and possible scope of the proj- our view that we needed to be out there parcels of the site. A subsidiary of Duluth- “Now the perception that the project ect has generated considerable interest making a step-by-step announcements of based Asbury Automotive Inc. purchased has ever been on hold is entirely incor- from both local and state offi cials. what we’re doing so much of what we’re 20 acres for $19 million and has placed a rect,” said Perry. Th e GM site has been pegged as an doing had to do with readying the project new car dealership on the site. Another Along with increasing development attractive site for corporate headquarters. for aggressive vertically development.” parcel is home to the state’s newest movie on the site, local offi cials see a spillover Mattress giant Serta Simmons Bedding When the GM plant closed, the city of production facility called Third Rail Stu- eff ect as surrounding areas become more LLC is expected to consolidate operations Doraville and the region lost thousands dios. Th e studio is named for the rail attractive to development. “We have a at a six-acre parcel on the site. Th is new of jobs and millions in taxes. Now local lines that served the shuttered GM Plant. $200 million mixed-use redevelopment Doraville headquarters campus would leaders such as the DeKalb Chamber of Located in a former distribution center planned on Buford Highway,” said Dora- employ about 500 workers, according to Commerce view the redevelopment as a for General Foods, the 130,000-square- ville Mayor Donna Pittman. “We have a published reports. means to replace at least some of those foot factory building was converted into 34-acre town home and single family res- Th e company has so far not offi cially jobs. sound stages, administrative offi ces, ven- idential development gearing up across confi rmed the move and both Integral “Th e chamber’s focus on this project dor spaces and mill shops to support I-285. We have a 12-acre town center and local offi cials have been tight-lipped is purely economic development, job cre- production. redevelopment slated to go out for RFPs about the prospects of it or any other ation,” said Georgia Power area manager Th e plant’s rail lines have been pre- later this year and a New Metro City Bank company committing to the location. John Kelley, who serves on the chamber’s served in an additional nod to adaptive is being built on Buford Highway .”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1C to host amateur and professional sports. Atlanta Sports City will include 22 mul- cover all the Atlanta Sports City organized ti-use fi elds, seven sports diamonds, fi ve sports competitions and tournaments. indoor courts and 5,000- and 15,000-seat Finally, the Atlanta Sports City-Emory stadiums. Th e sports hosted by Atlanta partnership will also involve a multi-spe- Sports City will include soccer, football, cialty health park within the retail sec- fl ag football, lacrosse, basketball, base- tion of the project. Th e new health park ball, fi eld hockey, tennis, volleyball, wres- will have primary care, cardiology, GI and tling and cheerleading. multiple other specialties available to the Th e 15,000-seat stadium will be avail- community, said Bolan. Th e chief medical Deborah Young able for major sports events and, upon offi cer added the cost for the new addi- and Antonio completion, will serve as home to pro- tions will be upward of $10 million “for Render look over fessional soccer teams possibly from the the sports medicine and medical piece, the expansion men’s North American Soccer League but we’re still developing and building plans. and National Women’s Soccer League. out what the full program might look Trey Brantley, CEO of First Team SC like.” LLC, an organization designed specif- Construction on the Sports Medi- ically to bring professional soccer to cine Pavilion is scheduled to begin in the Atlanta Sports City, said an announce- fourth quarter of 2018. JOANN VITELLI ment regarding the pro soccer teams will Craig Delasin, CEO of Urban Retail come this summer but the men’s team is Properties, said because of the proxim- game changer.” Peter Sherrad, sports sales manager for expected to be playing in 2018. Th e 5,000- ity of the mall to Atlanta Sports City, “We Th e CEO said the addition of the grand Discover DeKalb, said the ground-break- seat stadium on the Atlanta Sports City began discussions to make sure both enti- entrance, slated to start in the fi rst quar- ing awaited the incorporation of Stone- complex will serve as the team’s home in ties were in alignment in areas such as ter of 2018, will allow the mall to pro- crest as a city and the election of new city 2018, until the larger venue is available. A security, maintenance, and traffi c fl ow. ” vide extra services it doesn’t have today offi cials. With those actions completed, women’s professional team is expected to Th is led to the idea to join the mall and including entertainment, food and bev- progress is being made toward the third begin play at Atlanta Sports City in 2019 . the sports facility. erage and sports-related retail. quarter 2017 start with a completion in Not counting the newly-announced “Retail is real simple,” Delasin said. As for the sports complex, 2019. additions, Atlanta Sports City offi cials “It’s foot traffi c and having the genera- ground-breaking is scheduled for the Th e new DeKalb complex adds to the expect to have a $197 million impact in tor to create foot traffi c for the mall is a third quarter of this year. Atlanta area’s already robust capability Georgia and will support 1,937 jobs. MAY 26-JUNE 1, 2017 ATLANTA BUSINESS CHRONICLE 11C DEKALB COUNTY MARKET REPORT

VIEWPOINT DeKalb Chamber working to create a pro-business environment ince the founding of the chamber Katerina Taylor and DeKalb County government, as committee along with co-chair Bill Nic- in 1938, myself, the members, is the president well as our partners in the cities, CIDs, hols, chief operating offi cer at the Task S investors, community partners and CEO of the development authorities and tourism. Force for Global Health, local entrepre- and stakeholders have been committed DeKalb Chamber I am proud that DeKalb is the fourth neurs, business stakeholders, and edu- to creating a pro-business environment of Commerce. largest county in Georgia, as it off ers cation leaders. Th is fi ve-year plan was for DeKalb County and the metro rich resources and attractive assets. We implemented in 2014 and resulted in Atlanta region. are proud to be home to the state’s No. 63 tasks to be completed by 2018 with A strong business presence contrib- 1 attraction, Stone Mountain Park, the eight recommendations beyond 2018. utes to the health, viability and sustain- state’s second busiest airport, Peach- Its goals are to improve the busi- ability of the community. As we con- leadership of the chamber, knew it was tree DeKalb Airport, and the lead- ness climate, enhance quality of life tinue to shape and defi ne the future of time to get laser-focused. Th e chamber ing national public health institution, and revitalize commercial corridors and DeKalb, we remain well-positioned to needed to be re-imagined, and people the Centers for Disease Control and employment centers. With 90 percent advocate and serve thanks to the trust needed to experience the transforma- Prevention. of the short-term goals already met, and support from our member investors tion taking place. Being close to downtown Atlanta the people of DeKalb are connecting in and the region’s business community. Th is year we look to increase visibil- and having an aff ordable cost of living, ways we haven’t seen before . At the core of our work, the staff ity of DeKalb Chamber’s work in the DeKalb remains a great place to live, As we continue our mission to be and I, along with our board of direc- community; defi ne the chamber as the work and play. As with any municipality the catalyst that attracts, supports, and tors, focus on ways to engage and sup- resource portal for business information or county, we have our challenges, but advances business interests in DeKalb port economic development; promote and connection; advocate for a busi- we are fortunate to have a framework County, we invite you to stay engaged and cultivate education and workforce ness-friendly environment in DeKalb that allows us to be the change and with our progress in creating a thriv- development; advance public advocacy; County and the metro Atlanta region; solutions. Our county is working to get ing community. I invite you to visit and provide more value around busi- and create an inviting environment people back in the workforce; increase our newest cities and witness the new ness member services. that supports business expansion and housing values; create equity across developments in the cities of Tucker and Th is year, under the leadership of growth of new entrepreneurs. the county; exert every option to sup- Stonecrest. I invite you to ride to the No. Frederick L. Daniels Jr. of Citizens Trust Our strategic goals are crucial to port local entrepreneurs; and help pass 1 MARTA destination in the region (the Bank as chair and Diane McClearen of moving DeKalb forward, and it’s impor- a transit policy that works to elevate Decatur MARTA Station) and observe Oglethorpe Power as past chair, a strate- tant for us to work with partners who DeKalb and the region as a whole. why the right transit strategy for DeKalb gic plan was developed that will help us share a vision for DeKalb. In order I currently serve as chair of the is the right transit and transportation address specifi c areas with more inten- to drive success , I personally believe DeKalb Th rives Steering Committee, the strategy for the metro Atlanta Region. tion. I have served as president and CEO we must collaborate with the DeKalb committee responsible for the oversight I invite you discover all that is DeKalb just a little over two years and, with the County School District, CEO Th urmond of the county’s strategic plan. I lead this County.

HOSPITALITY Discover DeKalb promotes activities with an international flair

BY DOUG DELOACH people were doing and post about their leisure travelers.” a large indoor play- Contributing writer own experiences at places like Stone Future plans for the Discover DeKalb ground. Located Mountain Park and Fernbank Museum of site include a separate international com- at the intersec- In recent months, the DeKalb Convention Natural History on Facebook and other ponent and a more comprehensive section of Clairmont & Visitors Bureau (DCVB) has embarked social media outlets. tion for meeting planners, which will Road and Buford upon a campaign to promote the metro “Bringing in that user-generated con- distinguish between categories, such as Highway, the county’s attractiveness as a destination tent, which authenticates the brand government-related activities or events 350,000-square- for domestic travelers and international and the destination, is critical,” said sponsored by faith-based organizations. foot retail cen- tourists, as well as younger visitors. Tsismanakis. “Our visitors’ center staff has seen an Julio ter draws 4.4 mil- The campaign’s most immediately The new strategy is also based on increase in visitors from Australia and Peñaranda lion visitors a year. visible manifestation is a new website data and anecdotal reports showing New Zealand stopping in looking for “Most of our visit- launched in early May called Discover an increasing interest among travelers unique shops and restaurants, which has ing customers are DeKalb. Th e site features lots of photos and from outside the U.S. in recreational and had a positive impact on the city of Deca- coming in on the weekends from neigh- stories submitted by visitors and interac- family-friendly attractions and events. tur’s local economy,” said Decatur Mayor boring states — Tennessee, Alabama, the tive links with popular social media sites, Another consideration was the fact that, Patti Garrett. Carolinas — and cities and towns across such as Instagram and Facebook. according to the Georgia Department of Buford Highway in DeKalb County Georgia,” said Julio Peñaranda, general “We wanted something cutting edge in Economic Development, international is home to a host of ethnic restaurants, manager of BJS Plaza Fiesta. terms of design,” said James Tsismanakis, tourists spend more money and stay lon- retail shops and clubs. Visitors to Plaza Fiesta often spend an executive director of the DCVB. “We also ger than domestic travelers. “We are very keen on promoting inter- entire day, according to Peñaranda. In a wanted the site to be tourism-, travel- and “DeKalb is taking advantage of the fact national shopping, entertainment and typical case, a family arrives in time to hospitality-oriented and not look like a that we have the most traveled airport in food tourism, which can be experienced eat lunch, walks around the mall and chamber of commerce or business.” the country with more than 70 fl ights per at places like Plaza Fiesta and in China- attends a special arts and crafts exhibit Th e decision to redefi ne the mission day arriving from outside the U.S.,” noted town,” Tsismanakis said. or musical presentation. Th en the fam- of the DCVB with a new look, feel and Tracy Vaughan, director of international For visitors interested in shopping ily shares another meal and makes the message stemmed in part from research, business development at the economic and eating their way around Mexico and 1- to 3-hour drive home. “It’s an expe- which indicated that visitors to the development department. “Plus, many of other countries south of the U.S. border, rience that bonds cultures and genera- county were seeking a means by which our international tour operators are look- Plaza Fiesta houses 280 retail and spe- tions,” said Peñaranda. they could share their stories and adven- ing for hotels outside of the downtown cialty stores, a dozen restaurants, plus tures. Th ey wanted to see what other area, which tend to be too expensive for health-care services, a fi tness center and ONE BUSINESS CHRONICLE. MANY MARKETING SOLUTIONS. Providing Multimedia Solutions To Fit Any Marketing Objective

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