City of Lawrenceville Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
City of Lawrenceville Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
City of Lawrenceville Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee
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Email flyer from the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Trade and Tourism Associationadvertising the May 13, 2008 PublicHearing.Citizens discuss their communities’future at May 13, 2008 hearing.• Conducted Public Hearing for the transmittal <strong>of</strong> thedraft Community Agenda to the Atlanta RegionalCommission and the Department <strong>of</strong> CommunityAffairs for review on May 13, 2008.Coordination and OversightCoordination and oversight for this outreach effort werevery important parts <strong>of</strong> the overall work effort supportingthe <strong>City</strong>’s <strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> Update. The Mayor andCouncil proposed a <strong>City</strong>-appointed <strong>Steering</strong> <strong>Committee</strong>,assisted by the <strong>City</strong>’s <strong>Plan</strong>ning Director and the <strong>City</strong>’sconsultant, to push the Agenda document developmentalong as well as to be the conduit for public opinion fromthe citizens, business community and civic groups. The<strong>City</strong>-appointed <strong>Steering</strong> <strong>Committee</strong> was composed <strong>of</strong>:• Mike Crow – <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> <strong>City</strong> Council• Brad Leonard – <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> <strong>Plan</strong>ning Director• Marie Beiser – <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> DDA, DowntownArchitectural Review Board• Mary Thompson – Downtown Architectural ReviewBoard• Eron Moore – <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> <strong>Plan</strong>ning Commission• Craig Willis – Local Businessman/<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Trade and Tourism Association• Gene McKay – Local resident• Joe Walter/Steve Sappington (Precision <strong>Plan</strong>ning,Inc.) – technical guidance and facilitationThe <strong>Steering</strong> <strong>Committee</strong> met roughly every two weeks tochew on the issues and opportunities affecting theircommunity. The <strong>Steering</strong> <strong>Committee</strong> also went back totheir boards and agencies, neighborhoods and civic groupsto “float” ideas and to bring back stakeholders input. Many<strong>of</strong> these same persons were involved in the collaborativeeffort undertaken during the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI)Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong>ning experience, so they werealready familiar with the vision process and by virtue <strong>of</strong> theresidency and service to the community, had definiteopinions about the future <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.Capturing the Pulse <strong>of</strong> the CommunityOne <strong>of</strong> the more interesting exercises in capturing the pulse<strong>of</strong> the community was through the written and online surveyprocess conducted in February-April, 2008. Written surveys<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 4<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Access to healthcare• Knowing neighbors• Small parks near neighborhoodsRespondents found the following “quality <strong>of</strong> life” issuessomewhat important:• Walking trails• Organized recreational opportunitiesRespondents found the following “quality <strong>of</strong> life” issueimportant:• Cultural facilitiesRespondents found the following areas <strong>of</strong> town in mostneed <strong>of</strong> improvement:• 37% - Pike Street• 32% - Maltbie Street / Hurricane Shoals Road• 31% - New Hope RoadRespondents stated that these areas <strong>of</strong> town could use thefollowing improvements:• Pike Street – rehabilitation <strong>of</strong> buildings andlandscape• Courthouse Area – cosmetic only• Northdale / Collins Hill – new appearance standards• Maltbie / Hurricane Shoals – new appearancesstandards and rehabilitation <strong>of</strong> area• North Clayton / Buford Hwy. - new appearancesstandards• Perry / Grayson Hwy. – better code enforcement andrehabilitation <strong>of</strong> area• New Hope Road - better code enforcement• Five Forks / Stone Mtn. Street - better codeenforcement• US 29 - better code enforcement• Scenic Hwy. - new appearances standards• Downtown (excluding square) - new appearancesstandards• Other areas – 43% say knock it down and start over<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 6<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Percentage <strong>of</strong> respondents that believe the followingactivities are needed to improve and/or add to create abetter community:• 53% - greenways and walking trails• 44% - better police presence• 40% - more entertainment• 38% - reduce traffic congestion• 35% - more neighborhood parks58% <strong>of</strong> all respondents believe <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has a smalltown feel.Growth and Economic DevelopmentRespondents found the following “growth and economicdevelopment” areas <strong>of</strong> town extremely important:• Downtown square• Georgia Gwinnett College• HospitalRespondents found the following “growth and economicdevelopment” areas <strong>of</strong> town somewhat important:• Pike Street Corridor• US 29 Corridor• Grayson Highway Corridor• Depot AreaRespondents found the following “growth and economicdevelopment” area <strong>of</strong> town important:• Airport CorridorLand Use IssuesRespondents find that it would be beneficial to includemore mixed use development in the following areas <strong>of</strong>town:• Georgia Gwinnett College• Depot Area• Grayson Highway Corridor• Pike Street Corridor• Downtown Square<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 7<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Respondents find that it would be beneficial to include thefollowing appearance improvements to areas <strong>of</strong> town:• Improve both interior and exterior <strong>of</strong> existingbuildings• Improve the landscape and site features <strong>of</strong> existingparcelsRespondents find that it would be beneficial to include thefollowing accessibility improvements to areas <strong>of</strong> town:• Better roadway access• Parking• Sidewalks• Transit access• Handicap accessRespondents find that it would be beneficial to include an“old downtown” architectural style the following areas<strong>of</strong> town:• Downtown Square• Depot Area• Georgia Gwinnett CollegeRespondents do not have a desire to increase the use <strong>of</strong>multi-lingual signage in the community.Community Facilities and Public ServiceRespondents find the following public services extremelyimportant (listed in order <strong>of</strong> importance):• Reliable water service• Graffiti removal• Garbage collection• Street maintenance• Availability <strong>of</strong> natural gas• Low cost water services• More street lights• More sidewalks56% <strong>of</strong> respondents say police presence in neighborhoodsis adequate.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 8<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
79% <strong>of</strong> respondents say police need to increase vehiclepatrolling.53% <strong>of</strong> respondents say they would like to see moreneighborhood policing.Transportation ImprovementsPercentage <strong>of</strong> respondents that would like to see thefollowing traffic improvements:• 40% - re-route through traffic from downtown• 30% - sidewalk connections between neighborhoods• 29% - improved access between downtown andGeorgia Gwinnett CollegeSubjective QuestionsThe following is a response to the question, “What is yourimpression <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>?”• Great small town feel• Fantastic downtown• Too many used car lots and title pawns• Congestive traffic• “Nice historic town, some nice older neighborhoods,lots <strong>of</strong> used car lots, dirty old shopping centers, andokay schools that used to be good.”• “It has a little center area that is focused and thendegenerates from there.”• Historic• Lacking <strong>of</strong> characterThe following is a response to the question, “What is yourfavorite thing about the community?”• Downtown• Close community and neighborhoods• Feels like home• Friendly peopleThe following is a response to the question, “What is yourleast favorite thing about the community?”• Illegal immigrants• Congestive traffic<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 9<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Crime and growing violence• Bad reputation <strong>of</strong> schools• Empty buildings and lack <strong>of</strong> planning• Too many rental houses• Increased Hispanic populationThe following is a response to the question, “What onething about the community would you change?”• Reduce multi-family invasion <strong>of</strong> single-familydwellings• Add private schools• Reduce crime and remove illegal immigrants• Improve cultural <strong>of</strong>ferings• Greater police presence• Improve traffic flow• Improve school reputation• Better land use planning• Enforce zoning ordinances• Remove used car lots• “Look at how cities like Suwanee and Johns Creekhave become destinations for affluent and model<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> after them.”The following is a response to the question, “What onething about the community would you keep thesame?”• Small town feel / old town charm• “I like the way the <strong>City</strong> celebrates the Christmasholidays and how this always brings the communitytogether.”• Neighborhood upkeep and pride• Preserving the face <strong>of</strong> heritageThe following is a response to the question, “What makes<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> unique?”• Downtown• Aurora theatre<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 10<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• “Whatever your preference…small town, metro,country, suburban, it’s all available in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.”• Political center for a dynamic county• Georgia Gwinnett College, but <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> needsto improve for the school to reach its potentialThe following is a response to the question, “What placesin <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> need to be preserved at all costs?”• Courthouse / downtown / square• NeighborhoodsThe following is a response to the question, “What makes<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> have a small town feeling?”• Small shops rather than a mall• Revitalized square• Community events and clustered activities• People tend to remember each otherThe following is a response to the question, “What keeps<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> from having a small town feeling?”• Too much sprawl• “low end” businesses• Influx <strong>of</strong> illegal immigrants• Too many houses• Too much traffic• Places to ride bikes and walkThe following is a response to the question, “What types<strong>of</strong> businesses would you not like to see in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>?”• Pawn shops• Adult shops• Package stores• Gun shops• Used car lots• Bail bondsmen• Check cashing shops<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 11<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
The following is a response to the question, “How do weimprove police presence in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>?”• have <strong>of</strong>ficers walking the streets rather than justtraffic police• more immediate response to complaints• more code enforcement and more <strong>of</strong>ficersSeveral respondents listed various streets that needimprovements, and the most popular improvedincludes widening, adding medians, and improvingtraffic signals.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 1 - 12<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
2: Community VisionA major part in planning for the future <strong>of</strong> a city requires avision, or an understanding <strong>of</strong> what the city will be orbecome. Identifying the commonly held vision for thefuture <strong>of</strong> a community requires a significant amount <strong>of</strong>citizen input and dedication to the planning process.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s citizen steering committee, stakeholders,and citizen attendance at public hearings have gone througha visioning process to work towards an overall image, orvision, in both words and illustrations. This process revealswhat the community wants to become and how it wants tolook by 2030.<strong>Steering</strong> <strong>Committee</strong> in action.Citizens view maps at PublicHearing.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has created a vision statement that describesthe commonly held vision <strong>of</strong> its preferred future. This visionstatement is a broad view <strong>of</strong> the community as a whole.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has also created a Future Development Mapwhich more specifically illustrates and describes thiscommonly held vision throughout the differentneighborhoods, or character areas that make up thecommunity. This visioning process has not only provided achance for the community to dream and imagine the futurethrough a public forum, but it has also provided a greatstarting point for creating a comprehensive plan as well asproviding actions for implementing the plan.This Chapter reveals this vision statement, presents theFuture Development Map, and describes the character areasthat are illustrated on the Future Development Map. Thedescription <strong>of</strong> each character area shows the community’sdesired development patterns for enhancing the character<strong>of</strong> each area and their recommended developmentstrategies that will direct the future development in eacharea. As a transition from typical land use planning tocharacter area planning, a summary table <strong>of</strong> permissibleland uses is provided in this Chapter, and a summary table<strong>of</strong> quality community objectives for each character area aidsas an evaluation <strong>of</strong> uses in each area.2.1 General Vision Statement<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> defines itself as the historic governmental,healthcare, educational and economic hub <strong>of</strong> GwinnettCounty, with a long tradition <strong>of</strong> close-knit neighborhoods,<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 1<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
civic pride and a strong, vibrant central business district.With the explosive growth <strong>of</strong> Gwinnett County over the lastforty years, <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has evolved from the local markettown for the neighboring countryside to a small urbancenter amidst the ever-spreading neighborhoods and stripcommercial centers. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> desires to mature into anurban focal point within the County, with a number <strong>of</strong>cultural, recreational, educational, lifestyle and employmentopportunities.Like the market town <strong>of</strong> the past, <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> wishes toreturn to a “full life-cycle community” - where children areraised, can go from day care through college, findemployment, raise their families and enjoy their goldenyears, without having to leave. In order to accomplish thisdesire, <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> needs to continue the soul-searchingthat was started during the Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong>ningprocess and apply this throughout the community,determining the strengths and weaknesses <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>,identifying the vision for the future, formulating objectives inorder to achieve the vision, and prepare guidelines forimplementing the vision.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> will be the center <strong>of</strong> the northeast region <strong>of</strong>Atlanta, as it becomes home to leading education,healthcare, commerce, industry, and government, whileprotecting its history and neighborhoods. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>shall enact standards <strong>of</strong> high quality for planned growthand redevelopment, while protecting its natural resourcesand strengthening its neighborhoods. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> shallcall upon its rich heritage to provide a community that is adestination for the rest <strong>of</strong> the region.2.2 Future Development MapAs a new tool in the comprehensive planning process, theGeorgia Department <strong>of</strong> Community Affairs introduced theFuture Development Map in the “Standards and Proceduresfor Local Government <strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong>ning” in the May1, 2005 update. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s Future Development Map isa result <strong>of</strong> refining preliminarily identified character areasand incorporating citizen steering committee andstakeholder perspectives about future developmentpatterns, as well as incorporating existing master plans thathave been adopted by the <strong>City</strong> and the variousstakeholders.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 2<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
This Future Development Map will be used in conjunctionwith the <strong>City</strong>’s current Future Land Use Map and currentOfficial Zoning Map to assist the <strong>City</strong> with day-to-dayplanning decisions. The <strong>City</strong> expects that the FutureDevelopment Map will eventually replace the Future LandUse Map as it moves away from parcel specific planning toneighborhood or character area planning. The FutureDevelopment Map introduces a degree <strong>of</strong> flexibility toplanning that is expected to improve the <strong>City</strong>’s land usedecision making process. Since the Future DevelopmentMap is not parcel specific or land use driven by design, it willaid the <strong>City</strong> in determining whether a proposed developmentor redevelopment is appropriate in scale, size, function,form, intensity, and/or pattern with the surroundingneighborhood or character area.Please see the attached Future Development Map.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 3<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Introducing Character Areas in the Community VisionA key component to updating <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’scomprehensive planning process is the creation <strong>of</strong> a FutureDevelopment Map. This map reflects the <strong>City</strong>’s vision forgrowth, development and redevelopment over the nexttwenty years. The <strong>City</strong>’s vision is graphically displayed onthe Future Development Map through the focus on several“character areas” that make up the <strong>City</strong> Limits. The <strong>City</strong>’svision has identified several existing areas with distinctivecharacter and has also identified areas where new charactercan be introduced. Existing “character areas” have commonidentifiers such as lot configuration; street design; buildinglocation, dimensions, and orientation; intensity <strong>of</strong>development; and interactions among uses within the area.New “character areas” can be created by identifying theexisting patterns that are desirable and creating new criteriafor developing or redeveloping the area that establishes thedesired form and pattern <strong>of</strong> that area. This character areaplanning will allow <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> to tailor developmentstrategies for each “character area”, with the goal <strong>of</strong>enhancing the function or promoting the desired characterfor the future.Character Area Descriptions with DesiredDevelopment Patterns and RecommendedDevelopment Strategies<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s Future Development Map identifies thefollowing “character areas” that make up the <strong>City</strong> Limits:• Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> Area• College Corridor• Medical Services• Airport• High Rise Corridor• Mixed Use Areas• Residential Area• Commercial (Regional)• Industrial Area• Parks and Greenspace• Gateway NodesThe following pages provide a description <strong>of</strong> these“character areas” along with desired development patternsand strategies for implementation. The desireddevelopment pattern describes the nature <strong>of</strong> preferreddevelopment in a “character area”, including appropriatedesign, infrastructure, and intensity. This is achieved<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 5<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
through formulating objectives for the area in order toachieve a future vision. The strategies for implementingthese objectives are by preparing and enforcing guidelinesand/or regulations in each area.Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> FutureLand Use.Proposed street extensions/newstreets in the Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong> area.2.3.1 Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> AreaGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> area was defined in a studyprepared by Tunnell-Spangler-Walsh and Associates for the<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> in 2005. The area contained within thedowntown master plan district is shown on the attachedmap. The character area encompasses about 860 acres andwas studied extensively during the plan developmentprocess. After significant amounts <strong>of</strong> public input wereobtained, an implementation program was developed t<strong>of</strong>ocus on a number <strong>of</strong> issues, including a new zoning overlaydistrict for the plan area and ten projects / project types forfuture development / construction:1. Return to two way streets2. Link Rhodes Jordan Park with GJAC3. Parks4. Community Facilities5. Scenic Parkway (Improvements)6. Transportation Study7. Local Streets (Improvements)8. Luckie Street9. Parking Projects10. Depot and Warehouse District RevitalizationDesired Development Patterns• The downtown <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> area should develop inaccordance with the future development map <strong>of</strong> thearea (i.e., “the Zoning Code District Map”), with acombination <strong>of</strong> greenspace, <strong>of</strong>fice, governmental,commercial, residential, residential-commercial uses.• The implementation <strong>of</strong> the projects in the area should beencouraged to promote the continued development <strong>of</strong>the area in accordance with the Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong>.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 6<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s historic depotshould become the meeting pointbetween the Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong> area and the College Corridor.Recommended Development Strategies• Where possible, the extension <strong>of</strong> streets should bedesigned to promote more local traffic and re-routesome traffic <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> the major roadways.• Local streets should be developed/redeveloped inaccordance with the downtown master plan guidelines.• The <strong>City</strong> should continue to require compliance with theZoning Ordinance with regard to the appearancestandards, development guidelines, etc.The <strong>City</strong> should continue to promote the revitalization <strong>of</strong> thedepot district as an entertainment destination.2.3.2 College CorridorGeneral Description and Boundary AreaIn 1994, Gwinnett County was recognized by the GeorgiaBoard <strong>of</strong> Regents as the largest county east <strong>of</strong> theMississippi River lacking a four-year college. In light <strong>of</strong> thisrevelation, the County purchased 160 acres <strong>of</strong> land located<strong>of</strong>f SR316 and Collins Hill Road specifically for thedevelopment <strong>of</strong> a college campus. This property is currentlywithin the <strong>City</strong> Limits <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.The following excerpts are taken from the college website:“Georgia Gwinnett College opened its doors on August 18,2006 as Governor Sonny Perdue, President Daniel Kaufman,Board <strong>of</strong> Regents Chairman Allan Vigil, U.S. RepresentativeJohn Linder and GGC Foundation Chairman Glenn White cutthe ceremonial ribbon for the nation’s first four-year publiccollege created in the 21st century, and the first four-yearpublic college created in Georgia in more than 100 years.”Georgia Gwinnett College’sAdministration Building.“For more than 15 years prior to the formation <strong>of</strong> GGC,community leaders pressed for a four-year college inGwinnett. As the county grew rapidly, it was evident thatthe expanding business community needed a source <strong>of</strong>qualified candidates for its workforce and it desired to enjoythe benefits involved with a community-based institution <strong>of</strong>higher education. A resolution was passed by the Board <strong>of</strong>Regents in October 2004, and the college was establishedby the Georgia General Assembly in March 2005. It willserve as the USG’s model campus for innovative approachesto highly-efficient student, facility, and administrativeservices.”<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 7<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
“With no legacy systems present, retr<strong>of</strong>itting outdatedequipment to accommodate new technologies is not anissue. Without ties to any past practices, GGC is positionedto implement best practices and cutting-edge innovations.Until the fall <strong>of</strong> 2008, GGC will share the campus with fourother partner institutions <strong>of</strong> higher education. Collectively,there are more than 8,000 students on campus. The partnerinstitutions will be phased out as their students graduate ortransfer. GGC expects to enroll a freshman class <strong>of</strong> 3,000 infall 2008.”Examples <strong>of</strong> college campus andcampus housing.Examples <strong>of</strong> college –orientedcommercial development,anticipated in the corridor“Overlapping [GGC’s environmentally friendly designed] themaster plan is a five-year plan already set in motion. Itincludes Phase II construction <strong>of</strong> an existing classroombuilding which is currently underway, followed by a 1,500-space parking deck. A $28.3 million library was recentlyapproved by the Board <strong>of</strong> Regents, and a student housingproject is under consideration.Working in tandem with the college, the Georgia GwinnettCollege Foundation has been established to develop privatefunding for projects such as student centers, bookstores andathletic facilities. The Foundation plans to developpartnerships with area businesses and a collaborative centerwhere companies can share their projected workforce needsand see firsthand the advantages <strong>of</strong> the college’scommitment to technology.”<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> is proud and excited to be the home <strong>of</strong> “thecampus <strong>of</strong> tomorrow”, as Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC)likes to call itself. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> is committed to extendtheir services to the campus and embrace the college intoassist in the promotion and success <strong>of</strong> the college, and seesa sustainable future in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> for college life. Thebest way to express this embracement is by the creation <strong>of</strong>a new character area that connects and blends the collegecampus with the downtown core and surrounding areas.The College Corridor starts at the Georgia Gwinnett Collegecampus located on Collins Hill Road along the north side <strong>of</strong>SR316 and extends southward to include a number <strong>of</strong>industrial and commercial uses along the western side <strong>of</strong>Collins Hill Road. At Hurricane Shoals Road, the corridorwidens to include multi-family residential developments,single-family dwellings along Curtis and Downing Streets aswell as commercial developments.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 8<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Conceptual view <strong>of</strong> GeorgiaGwinnett College at buildout.Historic Building in the Depot area.The corridor extends to the existing commercial area aroundthe Depot and terminates at Born Street. The college andthe Depot area are logical termini for the corridor. Thiscorridor will include some <strong>of</strong> the uses that <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>believes will be impacted by the future development alongthe corridor and will eventually transition from the existingland uses as the transportation systems are improved in thecorridors and as property values rise. The upper end <strong>of</strong> theDowntown Overlay District area just touches the Depotarea, so a linkage is formed that will allow both areas toimprove and help establish the Depot area as anentertainment district and destination.Desired Development Patterns• Development projects that compliment college life.• Create a strong physical connect between downtownand the college campus.• Redevelopment <strong>of</strong> existing single-family and multi-familyneighborhoods into high-quality <strong>of</strong>f-campus housing forcollege students, faculty and staff.• Expansion <strong>of</strong> college campus on the south side <strong>of</strong> SR316for future athletic events.• Encourage a variety <strong>of</strong> transit and transportation modesfrom campus to downtown and surrounding commercialdistricts.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 9<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Provide entertainment areas along the Depot that willencourage interaction between the college anddowntown.Recommended Development Strategies• In 2008 <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has initiated a study for road andland use improvement along the Collins Hill Road,Northdale Road, and North Clayton Street corridors.This study will seek Livable Communities Initiative (LCI)status, and will focus on widening and improving thetransportation corridor to create “College Avenue”.• Support current GDOT plans for creating a gradeseparation at Collins Hill Road and SR316.• Support the creation <strong>of</strong> a multi-purpose (bicycle andwalking) trail under the current SR316 bridge along thecollege campus road frontage.• Support and encourage continued efforts to establish a“brain train” multimodal station near the old depotlocation at North Clayton Street.• Support and interact with the College Master <strong>Plan</strong>.• Adopt policy that encourages the redevelopment <strong>of</strong> oldduplexes, condominiums and apartments complexesalong Hurricane Shoals Road and Northdale Road intomixed use high quality multi-family housing for collegestudents, faculty, and staff.• Encourage the promotion <strong>of</strong> an entertainment and artsdevelopment and eclectic redevelopment <strong>of</strong> old housesand warehouses between the old depot area and thedowntown square.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 10<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Consider acquisition <strong>of</strong> land along Northdale Road foradditional right-<strong>of</strong>-way and parkland area and acquire afunding source.GGCMaster<strong>Plan</strong>Gwinnett Medical Center2.3.3 Medical ServicesGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Medical Services Cluster encompasses the GwinnettMedical Center complex and nearby and adjacent medicalpr<strong>of</strong>essional buildings. The character area extends acrossPhillip Boulevard and Walther Boulevard, as well ascommercial properties along Duluth Hwy and industrial usesalong Old Norcross and Hurricane Shoals Road west <strong>of</strong>Duluth Hwy.The Gwinnett Medical Center complex currentlyencompasses 120 acres in a campus-like environment. TheHospital currently has 224 beds (including beds at SummitRidge). The bed capacity will be increased by 129 beds,with the completion <strong>of</strong> the eight-story North Tower, to atotal <strong>of</strong> 353. The Medical Center is awaiting a Certificate <strong>of</strong>Need from the Georgia Department <strong>of</strong> Community Health fora cardiac care unit. When this certificate is granted, the<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 11<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Medical Center campusHospital will be able to <strong>of</strong>fer complete cardiac services, andwill allow residents to receive skilled cardiac care in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> (while not having to travel into Atlanta, whichmakes many seniors anxious). It is anticipated that theaddition <strong>of</strong> the cardiac services center, together withexisting trauma services and stroke care capabilities, willbring approximately 400 new jobs to the medical servicescorridor. The promotion <strong>of</strong> the growth <strong>of</strong> the medicalservices pr<strong>of</strong>ession in Gwinnett County is very importantbecause Gwinnett County has few medical facilities for acommunity <strong>of</strong> its size. The attached map indicates futurebuilding location within the hospital complex. It is alsoanticipated that additional physicians, medical imaging,outpatient care and other medical uses will locate within thecorridor over the next several years.Desired Development Patterns• Development as part <strong>of</strong> a planned medical complex andassociated structures having adequate water, sewer,stormwater, and transportation infrastructure for allcomponent uses at build-out.• Increased connectivity (i.e., interparcel vehicular andpedestrian access) between developments and services(hospitals, restaurants, etc.).• Increase accessibility for transit to the area foremployees, patients and visitors.• Encourage the construction <strong>of</strong> parking facilities adequatefor the future needs <strong>of</strong> the cluster.• Gwinnett Medical Center complex master plan designshould be very pedestrian-oriented, with strong,walkable connections between different uses within thedevelopment (see attached plan).• Provide various housing types such as senior-oriented,active adult, assisted living, elderly, and special needs.• Uses should be compatible with one another.• Provide convenience and walkable connections to a widearray <strong>of</strong> services (restaurants, lodging, medicalbuildings, etc.)Recommended Development Strategies• Compatible design standards should be enforced forbuildings and landscaping to protect the aesthetics <strong>of</strong>the area. These design standards should encourage<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 12<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
large open grass areas, wide sidewalks and showcasethe buildings.• Sidewalks and connecting walkways should be designedto be ADA-compliant to improve seniors and themobility-impaired to move around the area. Thesewalkways should also be wide enough to accommodatemultiple users (i.e., 8’-10’ wide multi –use paths).• Improve sidewalks along Duluth Hwy. and across DultuhHwy. to provide safer pedestrian crossings.• Encourage signage and lighting guidelines to enhancequality image <strong>of</strong> development.• Encourage mix <strong>of</strong> uses (such as retail and services toserve medical employees) to reduce reliance onautomobiles within the area.• Promote more food services (restaurants) for people inthe area and increase lodging opportunities for familiesand visitors.• Require interparcel access for commercial uses alongDuluth Hwy. to reduce traffic on Duluth Hwy.• Encourage growth <strong>of</strong> companies that specialize inmanufacturing medical products.• Encourage college and schools to promote and providemedical services, courses and programs.• Encourage shuttle services to and from the medicalservices cluster and other points <strong>of</strong> interest in the <strong>City</strong>.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 13<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
2.3.4 AirportGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Gwinnett County Airport at Briscoe Field currentlyoccupies approximately 500 acres and consists <strong>of</strong> a singlerunway that is 6,021 feet long by 100 feet wide. The airporthas two fixed base operators (Fob’s). Landmark Aviation ison the north apron <strong>of</strong> the runway and Aircraft Specialist ison the south apron <strong>of</strong> the runway. The airport currentlysupports light general aviation and most corporate jets, hasthree (3) flight schools, and is run by the Gwinnett CountyAirport Authority.Gwinnett County Airport at Briscoe Field (LZU) is the fourthbusiest airport in Georgia, and is located in one <strong>of</strong> the mosteconomically active corners <strong>of</strong> the metropolitan Atlantaarea. The airport is located just south <strong>of</strong> Highway 316, isbound to the northeast by Cedars Road, to the south by<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 14<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Briscoe Boulevard, and to the southwest near Hosea Road.The airport property is mostly located in unincorporatedGwinnett County, and a portion <strong>of</strong> the property, thesouthwest half <strong>of</strong> the runway, is located within the<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> city limits.In October, 2006 Gwinnett County Airport Authority, thegoverning body <strong>of</strong> the airport, saw the completion <strong>of</strong> anAirport Master <strong>Plan</strong> by the Pegasus Associates International,Inc. project team. This master plan reviews storm waterconveyance throughout the property, environmentalregulations, and long-term options for development <strong>of</strong> theproperty. This master plan projects growth and operations<strong>of</strong> the airport through 2025 and relies on a median forecast<strong>of</strong> growth that has Gwinnett County based modelsforecasting high-growth scenarios and FAA based modelsforecasting lower-growth scenarios. The median-growthforecast shows an increase in corporate jet operations(take<strong>of</strong>fs and landings) from 21 percent <strong>of</strong> total operationsto 35 percent <strong>of</strong> operations by 2025. The largest singlecategory <strong>of</strong> operations will remain in the single engineaircraft well into the future. These forecasts are used as thebasis <strong>of</strong> a needs assessment for determining the need for afuture parallel runway.The master plan reveals that the demand for hangar spaceis rapidly approaching the current capacity on the airport’sproperty and the need for more basing area may berequired. The master plan recommendations are to add anadditional 5,000 foot parallel runway and supportingtaxiways, strengthening the bearing capacity <strong>of</strong> the existingrunway to support heavier aircraft, acquire more landbetween Highway 316 and Airport Road and betweenAirport Road and Hosea Road. The acquisition <strong>of</strong> adjacentland to the north and the west <strong>of</strong> the current airportproperty and the recommended configuration <strong>of</strong> theadditional runway, hangars, and base facilities will requirethe relocation <strong>of</strong> portions <strong>of</strong> Airport Road and HurricaneShoals Road. These relocations would bring both roadscloser to and more parallel to Highway 316 and more closelycoincide with Georgia Department <strong>of</strong> Transportation (GDOT)plans for the Highway 316 corridor.GDOT is in the planning stages <strong>of</strong> improvements alongHighway 316 to include the addition <strong>of</strong> High OccupancyVehicle (HOV) lanes and intersection improvements from I-<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 15<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
85 to Progress Center Avenue. The proposed changes coulddrastically alter the ground access to the airport. GDOTdraft documents show the conversion <strong>of</strong> High Hope /Hurricane Shoals Road and Highway 316 intersection froman at-grade intersection with a traffic light to a gradeseparated (bridged) intersection with only HOV access toaccess to Highway 316 at Progress Center Avenue. Theseplans will affect the airport access by requiring Highway 316access to either come from Cedars Road or SR20.Aeronautical chart <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Desired Development Patterns• Encourage continued growth and expansion <strong>of</strong>Gwinnett County Airport land use.• Limit residential development within the airport noisecontour area.• Promote transportation / communication / utilities aswell as industrial and commercial land use growththat supports and is supplemental to airport services.• Not only does the <strong>City</strong> support and agree with theAirport Master <strong>Plan</strong>, but also applauds the effortsetforth.• Increase communication between the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and the Airport Authority.Recommended Development Strategies• Annex into the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> the entireairport property including potential airport expansionproperties.• Where possible, the airport and surroundingproperties should be developed as per the GwinnettCounty Airport Master <strong>Plan</strong>.• Where possible, encourage GDOT improvements <strong>of</strong>the SR316 corridor to coincide with the GwinnettCounty Airport Master <strong>Plan</strong>.• Incorporate landscaping and site design <strong>of</strong> theairport to allow for a more prominent exposure alongSR316.• Incorporate signage guidelines to enhance and assistthe public approach to the airport from groundaccess.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 16<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Explore guidelines to encourage transit (brain train)connection to airport (shuttle bus from proposedmulti-modal station to airport).• Discourage residential development in the corridor.• Encourage greater participation by the <strong>City</strong> in theAirport Authority through representation on theauthority board.2.3.5 High Rise CorridorGeneral Description and Boundary AreaIn 2008 <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> adopted a high rise ordinance thatallows for and encourages corporate growth along bothsides <strong>of</strong> the SR316 corridor. Height limitations allow for 35-story building complexes to line SR316 within the <strong>City</strong>Limits; however, buildings <strong>of</strong> these heights are not allowedin the restricted airspace around the airport. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>believes that the lack <strong>of</strong> such an ordinance has discouragedcorporate developers from seeking location in the <strong>City</strong>Limits. The incorporation <strong>of</strong> this new character area wouldchange the landscape <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> along SR316 from a<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 17<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
suburban commuter corridor to a statuesque destinationspot.The high rise corridor is to promote the development <strong>of</strong>properties in a manner that integrates commercial uses with<strong>of</strong>fice and residential uses and promote pedestrianaccessibility among these uses. High rise uses within thecorridor will be tied together with connective streetscapes topromote an environment conducive to human scale activity.This will be accomplished through the provision <strong>of</strong>landscaping, street furniture, sidewalks, plazas, and multiusepaths to unify and interconnect varying uses throughoutthe corridor. The high rise corridor is found along SR 316along land adjacent to or having direct or immediate accessto the roadway.Examples <strong>of</strong> high rise residentialand multistory <strong>of</strong>fice buildingswith integrated parking.Desired Development Patterns• Residential development and commercial / <strong>of</strong>fice usesshould be designed to complement each other andcreate a complementary live / work environment withineach master planned project.• Commercial uses should include a mix <strong>of</strong> retail, services,and <strong>of</strong>fices to serve adjacent residents’ day-to-dayneeds, and should match the character <strong>of</strong> the high riseuse.• High rise project design should be very pedestrianoriented,with easy connections between different useswithin the project, as well as with adjacent uses.• Recreational, cultural, plazas, and greenspace usesshould be integrated into the project design.• Provide connectivity to neighboring communities andmajor destinations, such as libraries, neighborhoodcenters, health facilities, commercial clusters, parks,schools, etc.• Intensive commercial uses should be reserved for theCommercial (Regional) area.• Parking structures such as multi-level decks should beincluded in each high rise development.Recommended Development Strategies• Design and architectural standards should be developedfor multi-story commercial, <strong>of</strong>fice or residential buildings.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 18<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Adjoining parking or accessory structures should sharethe overall theme <strong>of</strong> the project.• Special attention should be paid to architecturaltreatments <strong>of</strong> street-level facades <strong>of</strong> multi-story projectsto promote the feeling <strong>of</strong> downtown commercial blocks(or similar styles).• All projects shall have extensive pedestrian and multiusepath connections with adjacent properties within thecorridor.• Landscaping and trees should be planted / preserved tocomplement the project, while maintaining compliancewith the <strong>City</strong>’s tree protection requirements.(<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s tree protection requirements andenforcement procedures may need to be updated tomaintain a desired canopy density.)• Encourage Gwinnett Chamber <strong>of</strong> Commerce and the<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Development Authority to promote thishigh rise corridor to potential users.2.3.6 Mixed Use AreasGeneral Description and Boundary AreaMixed-Use Areas should provide a mix <strong>of</strong> appropriateresidential, <strong>of</strong>fice, industrial and commercial uses to providea live/work/shop environment on corridors that radiate fromthe downtown master plan area. Commercial uses shouldbe designed to meet local residents’ daily needs and matchthe character <strong>of</strong> the surrounding neighborhoods. Mixed useareas are located throughout <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> along majortransportation corridors and adjacent to the downtown area.The following describes each mixed use character sub-area:Examples <strong>of</strong> mixed useretail/residential Smyrna.Grayson Highway CorridorGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Grayson Highway Corridor extends along GraysonHighway (SR 20) from the edge <strong>of</strong> the Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong> area to the <strong>City</strong> Limits at SR 20’s intersection withSugarloaf Parkway. This area is currently characterized by amixture <strong>of</strong> retail commercial, <strong>of</strong>fice, institutional andresidential uses. Many <strong>of</strong> the commercial uses weredeveloped in the mid-eighties and are in their third <strong>of</strong> fourthcycle <strong>of</strong> tenancy, including two former Wal-Mart sites, andare showing significant signs <strong>of</strong> decline. With the growthand development <strong>of</strong> the Grayson area, including upper<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 19<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
income housing, the desire is to transform the corridor intoa more upscale mixture <strong>of</strong> uses and to improve theappearance <strong>of</strong> the corridor.Examples <strong>of</strong> highend <strong>of</strong>fice/retail/residential Suwanee, GADesired Development Patterns• Pr<strong>of</strong>essional <strong>of</strong>fices• Upscale retail and restaurants• Mix <strong>of</strong> Residential/Office/Commercial uses includingstacked flats; live/work flex units and upper storyresidential with lower story commercial/<strong>of</strong>fice• Government, institutional, religious, and educationaluses• Desired mixture <strong>of</strong> uses: 40% <strong>of</strong>fice, 30% retail and30% residentialRecommended Development Strategies• Require interparcel connectivity and/or service drives toreduce trips onto Grayson Highway.• Design and architectural standards should be developedor revised to be compatible with the surrounding area.Overlay districts along SR 20 in Gwinnett County andGrayson should be reviewed for compatibility.• All new development and redevelopment, whether part<strong>of</strong> a common master planned development or located ona single parcel, should be required to connect to existingor proposed sidewalks along SR 20 and/or adjacentroads.• Adaptive reuse <strong>of</strong> existing commercial structures shouldbe allowed and encouraged under the adherence <strong>of</strong>architectural review board standards that promote <strong>City</strong>appeal. This adaptive reuse also needs to be compatiblewith the surrounding residential character.• Mixed-use developments should address connectivitywithin the development and between the developmentand other areas.• Signage, lighting and operating business hours shouldbe compatible with adjacent residential uses.• Landscape and buffer screenings abuttingneighborhoods and along adjacent roadways are to bemaintained to protect and promote quality <strong>of</strong> life issuesand <strong>City</strong> appeal.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 20<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
View <strong>of</strong> existing mixed usedevelopment on Scenic Highway.Scenic Highway CorridorGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Scenic Highway Corridor extends along Scenic Highway(SR 124) from the edge <strong>of</strong> the Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> area(i.e., Gwinnett Drive) to the Moon Road. The corridor isvery shallow, extending only generally one parcel out fromthe highway. This area is currently characterized by amixture <strong>of</strong> retail commercial, <strong>of</strong>fice, institutional andresidential uses. Residential uses that front Scenic Highwayhave undergone a slow conversion to <strong>of</strong>fice and pr<strong>of</strong>essionaluses over the last twenty years. The pr<strong>of</strong>essional uses havegenerally maintained a residential character.Desired Development Patterns• Office pr<strong>of</strong>essional uses• No retail uses in corridor• New conversions or new development to havearchitectural style consistent with adjacentresidential uses and maintain residential character.Recommended Development Strategies• Maintain exterior residential character <strong>of</strong> uses incorridor through zoning ordinance and developmentregulations• Signage, lighting and operating business hoursshould be compatible with adjacent residential uses.• New structures in corridor should be <strong>of</strong> similar scaleand size as existing <strong>of</strong>fice buildings and should havelandscaping and exterior treatments compatible withadjacent residential uses.Langley Drive/Gwinnett DriveGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Langley Drive/Gwinnett Drive/US 29 mixed use areasencompass the west side <strong>of</strong> Langley Drive from SR 120 toWest Crogan Street (US 29).; the west side <strong>of</strong> GwinnettDrive from West Crogan Street (US 29) to Scenic Highway(SR 124) and along US 29 from Gwinnett Drive to BartowJenkins Park. The areas are characterized predominantly bya mixture <strong>of</strong> older commercial, institutional and <strong>of</strong>ficestructures, built after WWII as the <strong>City</strong> grew out from itshistoric core. Many <strong>of</strong> these structures are now sufferingfrom disuse and under-utilization and are in need <strong>of</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 21<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
evitalization. Some multi-family residential is present onLangley Drive.Mixed <strong>of</strong>fice and residentialdevelopment – Athens, GA.Desired Development Patterns• New <strong>of</strong>fice and/or residential development should be<strong>of</strong>fice/residential in character• Small <strong>of</strong>fice and residential uses are permitted inlive/work flex units; stacked flats or similararrangements• New commercial uses should be designed to fit inwith the historical character <strong>of</strong> the area and shouldbe in appropriate scale with the surrounding uses.• Support services for Central Gwinnett High Schoolarea should be encouraged• Older commercial and <strong>of</strong>fice structures, ifredeveloped, should have architectural treatment inkeeping with their historical period.Recommended Development Strategies• Maintain exterior residential character <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice andpr<strong>of</strong>essional uses in corridor through zoningordinance and development regulations• Signage and lighting should be compatible withadjacent residential uses.• New structures in areas should be <strong>of</strong> similar scaleand size as existing buildings and should havelandscaping and exterior treatments compatible withadjacent residential uses or with the historical periodassociated with the building styleHood Street/ Buford HighwayGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Hood Street / Buford Highway mixed use areasencompass: (1) Buford Highway (SR 20) from the CSXtracks north to Hurricane Shoals Road along both sides <strong>of</strong>the road, extending eastward for several parcels in depth;and (2) an area <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> SR 20 north <strong>of</strong> SR 316 near SwansonDrive. The areas are characterized predominantly by amixture <strong>of</strong> older commercial, industrial and <strong>of</strong>fice structures,with limited residential uses, built after WWII as the <strong>City</strong>grew out from its historic core (closer to the railroad tracks)and newer industrial buildings north <strong>of</strong> SR 316. Many <strong>of</strong>these structures are now suffering from disuse and under-<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 22<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
utilization and are in need <strong>of</strong> revitalization. Someconversion and redevelopments have taken place in the lastseveral years, resulting in the loss <strong>of</strong> residential units nearHood Street.Mixed <strong>of</strong>fice and retail development.Desired Development Patterns• Pr<strong>of</strong>essional <strong>of</strong>fices• Retail in support <strong>of</strong> adjacent neighborhoods andindustrial uses.• Mix <strong>of</strong> Residential/Office/Commercial uses includingstacked flats; live/work flex units and upper storyresidential with lower story commercial/<strong>of</strong>fice nearRhodes Jordan Park• Government and institutional uses• Desired mixture <strong>of</strong> uses: 40% industrial (or<strong>of</strong>fice/distribution/institutional), 40% <strong>of</strong>fice, 10%retail and 10% residential• Older commercial and <strong>of</strong>fice structures, ifredeveloped, should have architectural treatment inkeeping with their historical period.Recommended Development Strategies• An overlay district with lighting, signage, landscapingand other guidelines should be adopted to governthe uses in this area, developed in keeping with thevaried exterior types within the area.• Redevelopment proposals should be reviewed in light<strong>of</strong> the adjacent College Corridor proposed overlaydistrict.• New <strong>of</strong>fice or residential structures in areas shouldbe <strong>of</strong> similar scale and size as existing buildings andshould have landscaping and exterior treatmentscompatible with the historical period associated withthe original building style. The establishment <strong>of</strong>design guidelines can help preserve the ambience <strong>of</strong>this older neighborhood.Paper Mill/New Hope RoadGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe Paper Mill Road/New Hope Road mixed use sub-areasencompass the area east and southeast <strong>of</strong> the DowntownMaster <strong>Plan</strong> area along Paper Mill, New Hope and Springlake<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 23<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Roads. The areas are characterized predominantly by amixture <strong>of</strong> single and multi-family residential uses, builtmostly in the 1980’s and 1990’s, with some scattered <strong>of</strong>ficeand commercial uses. New residential townhome uses existalong Springlake Roads and one small neighborhood <strong>of</strong>1940-50’s era houses are located <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> Carver Circle.Desired Development Patterns• Office/pr<strong>of</strong>essional uses with the outwardappearance <strong>of</strong> residential dwellings• Residential and <strong>of</strong>fice uses may be combined inlive/work flex units or multi story buildings withupper story residential and lower story <strong>of</strong>fice uses.• Limited retail uses in corridor that support adjacentresidential neighborhoods• New conversions or new development to havearchitectural style to be consistent with adjacentresidential uses (maintain residential character).Recommended Development Strategies• Maintain exterior residential character <strong>of</strong> uses in areathrough zoning ordinance and developmentregulations• Signage and lighting should be compatible withadjacent residential uses.• New structures in corridor should be <strong>of</strong> similar scaleand size as existing residential dwellings and shouldhave landscaping and exterior treatments compatiblewith adjacent residential uses.• Multi-story <strong>of</strong>fice/residential uses are morecompatible with development adjacent to ScenicHighway, but are not compatible with the residentialneighborhoods further along New Hope Road andPaper Mill Road.West <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>General Description and Boundary AreaThe West <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> mixed use sub-area encompasses amixture <strong>of</strong> more recent institutional and industrial usesalong Old Norcross, Riverside Drive and <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>-Suwanee Roads. Recently, the Gwinnett County Board <strong>of</strong>Education acquired property in the area and is building twonew schools.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 24<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Desired Development Patterns• Encourage master planned development whenpossible, as opposed to single parcel developmentfor new businesses.• Industrial, <strong>of</strong>fice and institutional uses contained inmaster-planned development where possible.• Limited retail is encouraged to support adjacentindustrial and institutional <strong>of</strong>fices• New developments to have increased connectivity tomajor transportation corridors.• Increase accessibility <strong>of</strong> transit to the area foremployees.• Sidewalks and multi-use paths are encourage to bedeveloped to connect the sub-area to thecommercial areas along Pike Street to the east.Recommended Development Strategies• Encourage future development / redevelopmentopportunities to be master planned to ensureadequate water, sewer, stormwater andtransportation infrastructure.• Incorporate landscaping and site design to blockviews <strong>of</strong> buildings and parking lots, loading docks,etc.• Identify potential redevelopment opportunities/sitesfor underutilized industrial sites. Redevelopment for<strong>of</strong>fice or institutional uses should be in keeping withthe surrounding properties• Incorporate measures to mitigate impacts on theadjacent built or undeveloped environments.• Encourage the development <strong>of</strong> a pocket park orother greenspace for the enjoyment <strong>of</strong> theemployees <strong>of</strong> the businesses in the area.2.3.7 Residential AreasGeneral Description and Boundary AreaThe residential areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> should be safe,attractive, stable, pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods thatprovide a mix <strong>of</strong> housing styles and characteristics, have aunique and defining neighborhood focal point, and are<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 25<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
interconnected through a system <strong>of</strong> greenspace and multiusetrails. Existing neighborhoods should be preserved andmaintained as safe stable places for the residents and newerdevelopments should be encouraged to use traditionalneighborhood design principles. Residential areas arelocated throughout <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and developed as the <strong>City</strong>developed, from the historical core to the most recentsubdivisions. These residential areas may be furtherdefined into the following sub-areas:Example <strong>of</strong> post wareraresidence.Post War Neighborhoods (circa 1946 to 1960)General Description and Boundary AreaPost war neighborhoods are found throughout <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>in a ring roughly outside <strong>of</strong> the downtown area, where landwas converted after the servicemen returned from the warand affordable housing was at a premium. Thesesubdivisions may be found <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> US 29, Scenic Highway,Five Forks Trickum Roads. The neighborhoods developedover a short span in some cases, and in others, havedeveloped by phases over the last fifty years. Theseneighborhoods have been relatively stable. There areconcerns that the ratio <strong>of</strong> owner and renter occupancy hasshifted towards the renter, especially in the smaller homes(i.e., approx. 1,000 square feet) in this sub-area which tendto be more conducive to rentals. With the changingdemographics <strong>of</strong> the community, there are concerns aboutcontinued neighborhood stability.Desired Development Patterns• Existing neighborhoods should foster a pedestrianfriendly environment.• Where possible, greenspace and pocket parks should belocated in or adjacent to these neighborhoods toincrease connectivity with other areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Redevelopment <strong>of</strong> older homes with compatiblearchitectural styles that maintain the local character.• Foster well landscaped neighborhood entrances andcommon areas.Recommended Development StrategiesExisting Development• New housing units in the sub-area should be designed toreflect the architectural characteristics <strong>of</strong> the adjacenthomes.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 26<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Adjacent non-residential development should bedesigned to be compatible with these neighborhoods.• These older neighborhoods should be preserved andstabilized through careful monitoring <strong>of</strong> special userequests and quality <strong>of</strong> life issues (i.e., codeenforcement).• Investigate a method to balance owner occupiedhousing with rental properties that are more in line withother respective community-friendly cities. This shouldbe done through a <strong>City</strong> selected taskforce.Infill Development• Encourage traditional neighborhood and conservationsubdivision developments that by their nature provide avariety <strong>of</strong> housing options. The variety <strong>of</strong> housingoptions should be complimentary <strong>of</strong> the surroundinghousings so as not to devalue existing establishedproperties.• Develop design and higher architectural standards forresidential areas that are coordinated with traditionalmasonry design.• Provide good vehicular and pedestrian/bike connectionsto: adjacent retail / commercial services; adjacentproperties / subdivisions, and regional network <strong>of</strong>greenspace and trails.• Street design should include traffic-calming measuresand should allow for bicycle and pedestrian facilities.Examples <strong>of</strong> first boomneighborhood houses.First Boom Neighborhoods (circa 19611979)General Description and Boundary AreaFirst Boom neighborhoods are found throughout<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> adjacent to the post war neighborhoods andare characterized by slightly larger houses and larger lots,such as Regal Drive. Housing styles are a mixture <strong>of</strong> wood,stone and brick siding, many with carports. Theseneighborhoods are facing many <strong>of</strong> the same challenges thatthe Post war neighborhoods face, with concerns <strong>of</strong>neighborhood turnover, quality <strong>of</strong> life issues and continuedneighborhood stability.Desired Development Patterns• Existing neighborhoods should foster a pedestrianfriendly environment.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 27<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Where possible, greenspace and pocket parks should belocated in or adjacent to these neighborhoods toincrease connectivity with other areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.Recommended Development StrategiesExisting Development• New housing units in the sub-area should be designed toreflect the architectural characteristics <strong>of</strong> the adjacenthomes.• Adjacent non-residential development should bedesigned to be compatible with these neighborhoods.• These neighborhoods should be preserved and stabilizedthrough careful monitoring <strong>of</strong> special use requests andquality <strong>of</strong> life issues (i.e., code enforcement).Infill Development• Encourage traditional neighborhood and conservationsubdivision developments that by their nature provide avariety <strong>of</strong> housing options. The variety <strong>of</strong> housingoptions should be complimentary <strong>of</strong> the surroundinghousings so as not to devalue existing establishedproperties.• Develop design and higher architectural standards forresidential areas that are coordinated with traditionalmasonry design.• Provide good vehicular and pedestrian/bike connectionsto: adjacent retail / commercial services; adjacentproperties / subdivisions, and regional network <strong>of</strong>greenspace and trails.• Street design should include traffic-calming measuresand should allow for bicycle and pedestrian facilities.Example <strong>of</strong> second boomneighborhood.Second Boom Neighborhoods (circa 19801991)General Description and Boundary AreaSecond Boom neighborhoods are found throughout<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> adjacent to the Post War and First Boomneighborhoods and are characterized by slightly largerhouses and larger lots, such as Leigh Kay Drive. Housingstyles are a mixture <strong>of</strong> wood, brick and vinyl siding, manywith attached garages. These neighborhoods are facingmany <strong>of</strong> the same challenges that the older neighborhoodsface, with concerns <strong>of</strong> neighborhood turnover, quality <strong>of</strong> lifeissues and continued neighborhood stability.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 28<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Desired Development Patterns• Existing neighborhoods should foster a pedestrianfriendly environment.• Where possible, greenspace and pocket parks should belocated in or adjacent to these neighborhoods toincrease connectivity with other areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.Recommended Development StrategiesExisting Development• New housing units in the sub-area should be designed toreflect the architectural characteristics <strong>of</strong> the adjacenthomes.• Adjacent non-residential development should bedesigned to be compatible with these neighborhoods.• These older neighborhoods should be preserved andstabilized through careful monitoring <strong>of</strong> special userequests and quality <strong>of</strong> life issues (i.e., codeenforcement).Infill Development• Encourage traditional neighborhood and conservationsubdivision developments that by their nature provide avariety <strong>of</strong> housing options. The variety <strong>of</strong> housingoptions should be complimentary <strong>of</strong> the surroundinghousings so as not to devalue existing establishedproperties.• Develop design and higher architectural standards forresidential areas that are coordinated with traditionalmasonry design.• Provide good vehicular and pedestrian/bike connectionsto: adjacent retail / commercial services; adjacentproperties / subdivisions, and regional network <strong>of</strong>greenspace and trails.• Street design should include traffic-calming measuresand should allow for bicycle and pedestrian facilities.Example <strong>of</strong> third boomneighborhood.Third Boom Neighborhoods (circa 1992 present)General Description and Boundary AreaThird boom neighborhoods are found in a mixture <strong>of</strong> infilldevelopment adjacent to older neighborhoods and on theouter edges <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. These neighborhoods are amixture <strong>of</strong> vinyl, brick and stucco houses with a largerfootprint, usually on a smaller lot due to the presence <strong>of</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 29<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
sewer. These subdivision neighborhoods <strong>of</strong>ten contain aprivate recreational amenity feature and are characterizedby extensive cul-de-sac streets with little connectivity toadjacent, older neighborhoods. Many <strong>of</strong> these subdivisionswere developed under the <strong>City</strong>’s RS-60 Zoning ordinance,which provides for smaller lots, narrower streets, mandatorygreenspace and exclusive use <strong>of</strong> brick siding.Desired Development Patterns• Neighborhoods should foster a pedestrian friendlyenvironment.• Where possible, greenspace and pocket parks should belocated in or adjacent to these neighborhoods toincrease connectivity with other areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Where possible, foster increased interconnectivity withadjacent neighborhoods through street connections orthrough sidewalks and/or multi-use trails.Recommended Development StrategiesExisting Development• New housing units in the sub-area should be designed toreflect the architectural characteristics <strong>of</strong> the adjacenthomes.• The stability <strong>of</strong> these neighborhoods should bemaintained through careful monitoring <strong>of</strong> special userequests and quality <strong>of</strong> life issues (i.e., codeenforcement).Infill Development• Encourage traditional neighborhood and conservationsubdivision developments that by their nature provide avariety <strong>of</strong> housing options.• Develop design and higher architectural standards forresidential areas that are coordinated with traditionalmasonry design.• Provide good vehicular and pedestrian/bike connectionsto: adjacent retail / commercial services; adjacentproperties / subdivisions, and regional network <strong>of</strong>greenspace and trails.• Street design should include traffic-calming measuresand should allow for bicycle and pedestrian facilities.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 30<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Where possible, foster increased interconnectivity withadjacent neighborhoods through street connections orthrough sidewalks and/or multi-use trails.Existing commercial development –Pike Street.Examples <strong>of</strong> preferred developmentpattern for commercial areas..2.3.8 Commercial (Regional)General Description and Boundary AreaThe Commercial (Regional) Character Area is reserved forattractive, well planned shopping centers designed toprovide ample shopping and employment opportunities forresidents <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and surrounding areas and toprovide a decent tax base and revenue source for the <strong>City</strong>.Regional commercial uses are currently found on majorthoroughfares in the <strong>City</strong>, outside <strong>of</strong> the Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong> area and extend towards the <strong>City</strong> limits. Many <strong>of</strong>these commercial areas have seen several cycles <strong>of</strong>development and need to be revitalized.Desired Development Patterns• Regional Commercial areas should include mix <strong>of</strong> retail,<strong>of</strong>fice, services, and employment to serve a regionalmarket area.• “Big box” retail should be limited to these areas.• Infill development/redevelopment <strong>of</strong> vacant commercialstructures is desirable.• Commercial developments should be master planned toensure that infrastructure will meet the needs <strong>of</strong> allcommercial businesses at build-out.• New developments should incorporate architecturalguidelines compatible with regional commercial styles orcommon themes that reflect adjacent developments.• Landscaping and buffer/screenings should beencouraged against non-commercial uses and alongadjacent roadways.• Adjacent commercial uses should be compatible withone another.Recommended Development Strategies• Encourage redevelopment <strong>of</strong> older shopping centers.• Promote designs that encourage walkable connectionsbetween different uses.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 31<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Promote inter-parcel access, shared driveways andconnectivity between commercial developments.• Promote multiuse paths in the design <strong>of</strong> new commercialdevelopments and to connect adjacent commercialdevelopments.• Encourage compatible architecture styles that maintainthe local character.• Encourage the establishment <strong>of</strong> major employers tosupport the regional commercial area.• Encourage well landscaped regional developments.2.3.9 Industrial AreaGeneral Description and Boundary Area<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has a strong industrial base due to its closeproximity to SR316, Briscoe field, and the railroad.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and all <strong>of</strong> Gwinnett County has been a hotbedfor development activity that relies on this industry base.Industrial areas along Maltbie Street and Hosea Road willcontinue to develop and redevelop while industry along OldNorcross Road will likely redevelop into medical industryuses.Examples <strong>of</strong> preferred developmentpattern for industrial areas.Atlanta Attachment Company <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.The Industrial character area identifies areas to remainindustrial or to be master planned for future industrial orregional activities, including manufacturing, wholesale and<strong>of</strong>fice / warehouse / distribution activities. These areas areintended to provide jobs and increase the tax base for the<strong>City</strong>.• Increase connectivity <strong>of</strong> industrial / manufacturing sitesto major transportation corridors.• Encourage master planned development when possible,as opposed to single parcel development for newbusinesses.• Increase accessibility <strong>of</strong> transit to the area foremployees.• Encourage separation, where possible, <strong>of</strong> industrialbasedtraffic, such as dump trucks, tractor trailers, andconcrete trucks from daily commuter and localpassenger traffic.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 32<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Recommended Development Strategies• Encourage future development / redevelopmentopportunities to be master planned to ensure adequatewater, sewer, stormwater and transportationinfrastructure.• Investigate areas where streets may be relocated/improved to promote safer truck traffic from localindustries (i.e., study relocation/realignment <strong>of</strong> thewestern end <strong>of</strong> Maltbie Street to decrease congestion atthe current intersection and to provide a saferintersection for truck movement onto Hurricane ShoalsRoad). Proposed improvements to be coordinated withGwinnett County DOT and Georgia DOT.• Incorporate landscaping and site design to block views<strong>of</strong> buildings and parking lots, loading docks, etc.• Identify potential redevelopment opportunities/sites.• Incorporate measures to mitigate impacts on theadjacent built or undeveloped environments.• Increase separation between recycling and transferstations and residential structures to reduce noise, odor,smoke and vibrations onto neighboring residential areas.• Restrict heavy industrial uses to those areas indicatedfor industrial use on the Future Development Map.• Seek funding for clean-up <strong>of</strong> known waste burial sites,and encourage redevelopment <strong>of</strong> these areas to matchthe characteristic <strong>of</strong> the neighborhood that they are in.• Enforce monitoring programs and code enforcementprograms to ensure that existing and future industrialsites are not harming the environment.• Assist owners <strong>of</strong> car salvage yards in finding an area torelocate outside <strong>of</strong> potentially new character areas.2.3.10 Parks and GreenspaceGeneral Description and Boundary AreaParks and greenspace are areas <strong>of</strong> protected open spaceestablished for recreation, alternative transportation,environmental education, or conservation purposes. Theseareas include ecological, cultural and recreational amenities.The <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has a number <strong>of</strong> parks andgreenspace areas within its borders, the largest <strong>of</strong> which isRhodes Jordan Park on Crogan Street (US 29), which is<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 33<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Examples <strong>of</strong> multiuse path – PATHDeKalb County.Gwinnett County. This facility is 162 acres in size, with a22-acre lake, surrounded by open space, five picnicpavilions, a 0.8-mile paved multipurpose trail, twoplaygrounds as well as seven baseball/s<strong>of</strong>tball fields, and afootball field overlay. The park also features a communitycenter with two classrooms, a dance/aerobics room, a largecommunity room and a double gymnasium. The tenniscenter has eight lighted courts. An outdoor leisure poolfeatures three lap lanes, a large slide and other water playfeatures. The <strong>City</strong> also has Park West on Five Forks-TrickumRoads, which is operated by the Boys and Girls Club <strong>of</strong>Gwinnett County; Bartow Jenkins Park, a passive parklocated on <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Highway (US 29); and BaggettPark, an undeveloped +/-18-acre park located at theintersection <strong>of</strong> US 29 and Sugarloaf Parkway.The <strong>City</strong> is crisscrossed with easements, streams and othergreen spaces that could be preserved as passive spaces ordeveloped into multi-use trails or “pocket parks” to bringrecreational opportunities closer to the neighborhoods andto reduce the number <strong>of</strong> vehicle trips, which should aid inreducing congestion.Desired Development Patterns• Preservation <strong>of</strong> parks and greenspace for alternativetransportation, environmental education, andconservation is a priority for the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• The creation <strong>of</strong> new parks and greenspaces toaccommodate the growing population <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>,with an emphasis on pocket parks and passiverecreational opportunities.• To encourage the development <strong>of</strong> a series <strong>of</strong> pocketparks adjacent to, or nearby existing residentialdevelopment, especially the “Post War”, “First Boom”and “Second Boom” neighborhoods, where recreationalamenities were not installed when the subdivision wasdeveloped.• To encourage private investment and further publicinvestment to develop a series <strong>of</strong> multi-use trails to tieinto existing streetscapes to connect neighborhoods withdowntown.Recommended Development Strategies• Perform a study to identify potential sites for pocketparks and connecting multi-use trails and to determine<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 34<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Promote a variety <strong>of</strong> recreation opportunities for<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> residents, while working with GwinnettCounty to <strong>of</strong>fer compatible activities.• Work with Gwinnett County to link greenspaces into anetwork <strong>of</strong> greenways, set aside for pedestrian andbicycle connections between schools, churches,recreation areas, residential neighborhoods andcommercial areas.2.3.11 Gateway NodesGeneral Description and Boundary AreaGateway Nodes should include attractively landscaped areaswith signage, streetlights, monuments, site furnishings, andother features at appropriate <strong>City</strong> access points thatcommunicate a message <strong>of</strong> welcome and conveyinformation about the <strong>City</strong>’s resources to residents andvisitors alike.As indicated on the Future Development Map, there are nine(9) identifiable gateway nodes around <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Thesegateway nodes are mostly located at crossroad intersectionsalong the <strong>City</strong> Limits. These gateway nodes are identifiedas follows:• Old Norcross Road at Riverside Parkway• Collins Hill Road at the GGC entrance• SR20 at Swanson Drive• Winder Hwy. (US29) at Hosea Road• New Hope Road at Simonton road• Grayson Hwy. (SR20) at Sugarloaf Parkway• Scenic Hwy. (SR124) at Sugarloaf Parkway• Five Forks Trickum Road at Sugarloaf Parkway• <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Hwy. (SR29) at <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>-SuwaneeRoadDesired Development Patterns• Community access points should be utilized to introduce<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and communicate a message to residentsand visitors to <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Gateway Nodes should include appropriate signage,landscaping and other beautification measures.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 35<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Gateway Nodes should help create a sense <strong>of</strong> place (i.e.,that “you are home” to <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> residents and“Welcome to our Town” to workers and visitors) andseparate <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> for unincorporated GwinnettCounty.Recommended Development Strategies• Install and/or maintain appropriate directory signage tocommunity amenities and developments.• Establish design standards for access point signage,landscaping and lighting to standardize and protect theappearance <strong>of</strong> community access points.• Use access points to promote historic and culturalresources <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Contact civic groups that might share an interest inimplementing and maintaining these individual nodes.• Research programs such as “Adopt a Road” that mightprovide guidance for gaining support and installation <strong>of</strong>a “Gateway Node” program.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 36<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
2.4 Table <strong>of</strong> Permissible Land Uses inCharacter AreasCharacterAreaResidentialCommercialLight IndustrialHeavyIndustrialPublic /InstitutionalTCUAgriculture /ForestryUndeveloped /VacantMixed UseAirport Medical ServicesCollegeCorridorMixed UseAreasIndustrialAreasDowntownMaster <strong>Plan</strong>Area Residential AreaHigh Rise CorridorCommercial(Regional)Parks & GreenspaceGatewayNodesResidential – Single Family, Multi-familyCommercial – Retail sales, <strong>of</strong>fice, service, and/or entertainment facilities.Light Industrial – (As determined by intensity <strong>of</strong> land use) – Manufacturing facilities, warehousing and distribution, wholesaletrade.Heavy Industrial – (As determined by intensity <strong>of</strong> land use) – Manufacturing facilities, processing plants, factories, warehousingand distribution, wholesale trade.Public / Institutional – Federal, State, or Local government uses such as <strong>City</strong> halls, government building complexes, police andfire stations, libraries, prisons, post <strong>of</strong>fices, military installations, colleges, schools, churches, hospitals, cemeteries.Transportation / Communication / Utilities – Major transportation routes, public transit stations, power generation ortransmission plants, railroad facilities, radio / cell towers, telephone switching stations, airports, port facilities.Park / Recreation / Conservation – Active or Passive recreational land uses, publicly or privately owned. Examples includeplaygrounds, public parks, nature preserves, wildlife management areas, national forests, golf courses, recreation centers or similaruses.Agriculture / Forestry – Farming, agriculture, commercial timber or pulpwood harvesting.Undeveloped / Vacant – Tracts <strong>of</strong> land served by typical urban public services such as water, sewer, oil or gas lines but have notbeen developed for a specific use that has such been abandoned.Mixed Use – Mixed Land Use categories may be created and applied at the discretion <strong>of</strong> the community. If applied, mixed LandUse categories must be clearly defined to include types <strong>of</strong> land uses allowed, percentage distribution <strong>of</strong> the mix, and allowabledensity <strong>of</strong> each use.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 37<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
2.5 Table <strong>of</strong> Quality CommunityObjectives in Character AreasQualityCommunityObjectivesAirportMedicalServicesCollegeCorridorMixed UseAreasIndustrialAreaDowntownMaster <strong>Plan</strong>AreaResidentialAreaHigh RiseCorridorCommercial(Regional)Parks andGreenspaceGatewayNodesTraditionalNeighborhoodInfillDevelopment Sense <strong>of</strong> Place TransportationAlternativesRegionalIdentityHeritagePreservationOpen SpacePreservationEnvironmentalProtectionGrowthPreparednessAppropriateBusinessEmploymentOptionsHousingChoicesEducationalOpportunitiesRegionalSolutionsRegionalCooperation Traditional Neighborhood – Traditional neighborhood development patterns should be encouraged, including use <strong>of</strong> morehuman scale development, compact development, mixing <strong>of</strong> uses within easy walking distance to one another, and facilitatingpedestrian activity.Infill Development – Communities should maximize the use <strong>of</strong> existing infrastructure and minimize the conversion <strong>of</strong>undeveloped land at the urban periphery by encouraging development or redevelopment <strong>of</strong> sites closer to the downtown ortraditional urban core <strong>of</strong> the community.Sense <strong>of</strong> Place – Traditional downtown areas should be maintained as the focal point <strong>of</strong> the community or, for newer areas wherethis is not possible, the development <strong>of</strong> activity centers that serve as community focal points should be encouraged. These<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 38<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
community focal points should be attractive, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly places where people choose to gather for shopping,dining, socializing, and entertainment.Transportation Alternatives – Alternatives to transportation by automobile, including mass transit, bicycle routes, and pedestrianfacilities, should be made available in each community. Greater use <strong>of</strong> alternative transportation should be encouraged.Regional Identity – Each region should promote and preserve a regional “identity,” or regional sense <strong>of</strong> place, defined in terms <strong>of</strong>traditional architecture, common economic linkages that bind the region together, or other shared characteristics.Heritage Preservation – The traditional character <strong>of</strong> the community should be maintained through preserving and revitalizinghistoric areas <strong>of</strong> the community, encouraging new development that is compatible with the traditional features <strong>of</strong> the community,and protecting other scenic or natural features that are important to defining the community’s character.Open Space Preservation – New development should be designed to minimize the amount <strong>of</strong> land consumed, and open spaceshould be set aside from development for use as public parks or as greenbelts / wildlife corridors. Compact developmentordinances are one way <strong>of</strong> encouraging this type <strong>of</strong> open space preservation.Environmental Protection – Environmentally sensitive areas should be protected from negative impacts <strong>of</strong> development,particularly when they are important for maintaining traditional character or quality <strong>of</strong> life <strong>of</strong> the community or region. Wheneverpossible, the natural terrain, drainage, and vegetation <strong>of</strong> an area should be preserved.Growth Preparedness – Each community should identify and put in place the pre-requisites for the type <strong>of</strong> growth it seeks toachieve. This might include infrastructure (roads, water, sewer) to support new growth, appropriate training <strong>of</strong> the workforce,ordinances and regulations to manage growth as desired, or leadership capable <strong>of</strong> responding to growth opportunities andmanaging new growth when it occurs.Appropriate Business – The businesses and industries encouraged to develop or expand in a community should be suitable forthe community in terms <strong>of</strong> job skills required, long-term sustainability, linkages to other economic activities in the region, impact onthe resources <strong>of</strong> the area, and future prospects for expansion and creation <strong>of</strong> higher-skill job opportunities.Employment Options – A range <strong>of</strong> job types should be provided in each community to meet the diverse needs <strong>of</strong> the localworkforce.Housing Choices – A range <strong>of</strong> housing size, cost, and density should be provided in each community to make it possible for allwork in the community to make it possible for all who work in the community to also live in the community (thereby reducingcommuting distances), to promote a mixture <strong>of</strong> income and age groups in each community, and to provide a range <strong>of</strong> housingchoice to meet market needs.Educational Opportunities – Educational and training opportunities should be available in each community – to permitcommunity residents to improve their job skills, adapt to technological advances, or to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions.Regional Solutions – Regional solutions to needs shared by more than one local jurisdiction are preferable to separate localapproaches, particularly where this will result in greater efficiency and less cost to the taxpayer.Regional Cooperation – Regional cooperation should be encouraged in setting priorities, identifying shared needs, and findingcollaborative solutions, particularly where it is critical to success <strong>of</strong> a venture, such as protection <strong>of</strong> shared natural resources ordevelopment <strong>of</strong> a transportation network.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 2 - 39<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
3: Issues andOpportunities3.1 IntroductionThis section provides an updated list <strong>of</strong> Community Issuesand Opportunities identified from a review <strong>of</strong> the analysis <strong>of</strong>County/Cities Joint Community Assessment, the <strong>Steering</strong><strong>Committee</strong> meetings, online surveys and throughdiscussions with elected <strong>of</strong>ficials, <strong>City</strong> staff, and residents aspart <strong>of</strong> public meetings described in the CommunityParticipation Program.The report organizes the issues and opportunities by themajor topics defined in the State <strong>of</strong> Georgia Department <strong>of</strong>Community Affairs’ (DCA) Local <strong>Plan</strong>ning Requirements. Theassessment topics are:• Population• Housing• Economic Development• Natural and Cultural Resources• Community Facilities and Services• Transportation• Intergovernmental Coordination• Land Use3.2 Population3.2.1 Population Issues and OpportunitiesContinuing Population GrowthThe U.S. census estimated the 2005 population to be25,764. This figure is projected to increase to 42,301 by2030. This figure equates to a 66% growth rate during theperiod or an average <strong>of</strong> 2.64% annually. Given that there isa scarcity <strong>of</strong> vacant land within the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>,densities will have to increase to accommodate these newresidents.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 1<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Changing growth rates among age groupsIn 2000, children age 0-17 totaled 5,908 and comprised21.0% <strong>of</strong> the population. In 2030, this age group isexpected exceed 10,685, increasing its share to 27%.Working adults age 18-64 totaled 14,440 and comprised60.1% <strong>of</strong> the population in 2000. This age group isexpected to drop in proportion o by 2030 with a projection<strong>of</strong> 28,063. There must be continued efforts to plan forgrowth in the Gwinnett County school system as well as thehousing and job markets. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s senior population(65 and over) is expected to increase slightly from 8% to9% <strong>of</strong> the total population. The percentages equate to atotal <strong>of</strong> 3,855 seniors in 2030 up from an estimated 2,049 in2000. Given the presence <strong>of</strong> the Gwinnett Medical Centerand the expanding services over the next twenty-plus years,it is expected that the percentage <strong>of</strong> senior citizens in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> may actually be greater than Censusestimates in 2030.Changing Face <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s ResidentsIn 2000, Hispanics comprised 12.0% <strong>of</strong> the population or anestimated 2,720 residents. In 2030, this segment isprojected to grow to 16% <strong>of</strong> the total population - anincrease <strong>of</strong> 3,960 residents. The percentage <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong> residents who are considered neither whitenor black will grow from 2,319 (10.4%) to 5,710 (13.4%).<strong>City</strong> (and County) services will need to be reviewed andadjusted over time to assimilate these residents for whomEnglish is not their primary language. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> expectsthat funding sources to accommodate multi-lingual supportwill originate from services that cater to this changingpopulation.3.3 Housing3.3.1 Housing IssuesDemographic Changes Affect Housing DemandAs the population <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> continues to increase,more housing units will need to be made available, atincreasing densities. Additionally, the increase in theimmigrant community has added to the demand foraffordable housing in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. At the same time the<strong>City</strong> has placed severe limitations on multi-family dwellingconstructions due to crime, upkeep and quality <strong>of</strong> lifeconcerns. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> wishes to attract higher-end<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 2<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
housing to capture the college pr<strong>of</strong>essors, medicalpr<strong>of</strong>essionals and other executives who have bypassed thecity in the past for Sugarloaf, Chateau Elan or North FultonCounty communities.L<strong>of</strong>ts and stacked flats – Athens, GA.Changing Nature <strong>of</strong> Housing OptionsThe traditional housing unit has been single family, middleclass white owners; however, the <strong>City</strong> has allowed anumber <strong>of</strong> multi-family dwellings to be built over the lasttwenty years and has developed a less than desirableowner/renter ratio. Coincidentally, the student population<strong>of</strong> Georgia Gwinnett College is expected to grow to 15,000over the next ten to fifteen years. The college intends onhousing approximately 25%, or 3,750 students on campus.It is estimated that another 25% or 3,750 students willwant to live close to the campus. Housing opportunities willneed to be made available to them in styles andaccommodations that are typically found adjacent touniversities (i.e.; townhouses, stacked flats suite-styleapartments, etc.)Aging NeighborhoodsA symbol <strong>of</strong> pride in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> has been theneighborhoods outside <strong>of</strong> the downtown area that weredeveloped after WWII. These neighborhoods have been asource <strong>of</strong> stability and have provided a sense <strong>of</strong> communityfor three generations <strong>of</strong> residents. However, with many <strong>of</strong>these housing over 50 years old and with the pressures formore rental housing in the area to accommodate demand,especially within the immigrant community, many <strong>of</strong> theseneighborhoods face the possibility <strong>of</strong> significant turnover inthe future, which was a significant concern raised throughthe participation process. The <strong>City</strong> should fosterredevelopment and revitalization <strong>of</strong> aging neighborhoods toattract and encourage owner occupied housing.Infill development – Duluth, GA.3.3.2 Housing OpportunitiesEncourage Mixed Use/Infill DevelopmentsWhere redevelopment or infill housing developmentopportunities exist, the <strong>City</strong> should encourage Mixed Usedevelopments similar to those already occurring in thedowntown area. These developments consolidate housing,employment and activity centers which help to reduce trafficcongestion and create an identity unique to <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.These developments also allow densities <strong>of</strong> development to<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 3<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
e achieved to help meet the demand for new units in theplanning horizon.Example <strong>of</strong> stacked flats.Example <strong>of</strong> senior housing –attached villas.Encourage “academicfriendly” housing alternativesin the College Corridor AreaThe <strong>City</strong> should review the Zoning Ordinance andDevelopment Standards to find alternative housingopportunities that will meet the anticipated demand for <strong>of</strong>fcampushousing for students and for college pr<strong>of</strong>essors andstaff. These opportunities should have accessibility toseveral modes <strong>of</strong> transportation and should be mixed use innature to promote walkability and to help create the “sense<strong>of</strong> place” that defines so many college communities.Promote the High Rise CorridorThe <strong>City</strong> has developed a high rise corridor along SR 316that will accommodate developments up to 35 stories insome locations. The development <strong>of</strong> properties within thiscorridor at the densities afforded by multi-story buildingswill help provide the additional housing units, together withinfill development, needed to satisfy the housing unitdemand over the next twenty-plus years.Monitor Market for Opportunity to Encourage HighEnd and Senior HousingAs the Georgia Gwinnett College continues to grow and withthe growth <strong>of</strong> the Gwinnett Medical Center areas, as well asother higher-end pr<strong>of</strong>essional jobs in the area, there will bea resulting need for higher-end housing in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.The <strong>City</strong> should monitor trends and work with developersand these employment generators to find out what types <strong>of</strong>housing opportunities are appealing to these pr<strong>of</strong>essionalsand how can they be developed within the <strong>City</strong> Limits.Also as the baby boomer population ages, opportunities forsenior-oriented and senior-friendly housing should beconsidered. <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> should effectively plan infilldevelopments that provide convenient, centrally locatedservices for seniors, especially with access or in closerproximity to the Gwinnett Medical Center.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 4<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
3.4 Economic Development3.4.1 Economic Development IssuesUnderutilization <strong>of</strong> downtownFor many years, the downtown area <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> acted asthe cultural, economic and social hub <strong>of</strong> the community. Withthe explosive growth <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong> and the County in the 1980’sforward, most <strong>of</strong> the new retail growth occurred outside <strong>of</strong> thedowntown area. This left government, service and <strong>of</strong>ficefunctions as the main economic activities downtown. Many <strong>of</strong>the buildings were allowed to decay due to absentee landlordsor disinterest from the community. Although the last severalyears have seen an increase in activities in the Courthousesquare area, many adjacent blocks <strong>of</strong> the downtown area arestill underutilized for entertainment, cultural and small retailactivities.No cohesive economic development policyThe <strong>City</strong> lacks a comprehensive economic development plan.The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and the<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Tourism and Trade Association (LTTA)contribute to planning, downtown development and businessleadership, but there remains a need for a formal economicdevelopment plan that is regularly updated.“No one to sell <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>”Together with the lack <strong>of</strong> a cohesive economic developmentpolicy, there is no one employed by the <strong>City</strong> or by the DDAor LTTA to expressly “sell” <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> as a place to dobusiness. The Chamber <strong>of</strong> Commerce looks over theinterests <strong>of</strong> the entire County, and, (as admitted by the <strong>City</strong>leaders and several business owners themselves),<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> cut themselves <strong>of</strong>f from the County in manyways over the last twenty years, leading many economicdevelopment efforts to focus elsewhere, such as Sugarloaf,Duluth, Suwanee and the Hamilton Mill areas.The <strong>City</strong> has determined that now is the time to hire a fulltimeEconomic Development Officer that will be responsiblefor developing policy and for “selling” or marketing<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> to the general public. This EconomicDevelopment Officer will not only be responsible for theexpansion <strong>of</strong> business and job opportunities in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>, but will also liaison or partner with <strong>City</strong>Officials, the DDA, LTTA, education leaders, healthcare<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 5<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
leaders, and the Gwinnett County Chamber <strong>of</strong> Commerce inmarketing <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> as an inclusive “full-life cycle”community where businesses thrive and residents maximizetheir life’s potential. The Economic Development Officerwould need to identify and target opportunities that woulddovetail with <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s main stakeholders andindustry, such as medical services, airport services,education services (both primary and secondary), andtechnology-based services.Lack <strong>of</strong> quality accommodations and conferenceevent facilities.In an effort to promote <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> as a “full-life cycle”community and to increase awareness <strong>of</strong> the amenities thatthe <strong>City</strong> has to <strong>of</strong>fer to the wider world (after years <strong>of</strong>isolation), it has been determined that there are no facilitiesavailable in the community to handle conferences, smallconventions or meetings, comparable to a similarly-sized<strong>City</strong> in a less urbanized area. With the increasing amount <strong>of</strong>pr<strong>of</strong>essional jobs locating in and around <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> andthe continued development <strong>of</strong> the College and MedicalCenter area, these types <strong>of</strong> facilities will be needed tocontinue to support the well balanced growth <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>.Such conference event facilities may be provided throughthe promotion <strong>of</strong> quality hotels in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and/orthrough standalone facilities that are either privately fundedor partially-funded through the <strong>City</strong>.3.4.2 Economic Development OpportunitiesGwinnett Hospital SystemThe Gwinnett Medical Center, located <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> SR 120 (PikeSt.) is a tremendous economic development opportunity.Compared to adjacent DeKalb and Fulton Counties,Gwinnett County has a much lower ratio <strong>of</strong> hospital beds/residents. The Medical Center is in the process <strong>of</strong>completing a multi-million dollar expansion and is awaiting aCertificate <strong>of</strong> Need for a Cardiac Care Unit. With thedevelopment <strong>of</strong> the necessary buildings for this facility,compared with other planned expansions <strong>of</strong> facilities,support units and medical <strong>of</strong>fices, the Medical Centerexpects to add an additional 400 plus jobs on the 120 acrecomplex. This does not count the continued growth <strong>of</strong>medical practitioners and related health care jobs in theareas around the Medical Center in the proposed MedicalServices Cluster character area.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 6<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Additionally, there are a number <strong>of</strong> specialty medicalmanufacturing industries in the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> area.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> should actively pursue manufacturers that arelarge skilled-labor employers that have their own researchand development, sales, and marketing departments.These types <strong>of</strong> industries should be recruited to bring themcloser to the active medical community in the <strong>City</strong>. The <strong>City</strong>should continue to support the expansion <strong>of</strong> the MedicalCenter complex while incorporating changes to the zoningordinances to encourage better connectivity in the MedicalServices Cluster.AirportGwinnett County Airport (Briscoe Field) is continuing togrow and expand their operations. With the ability toaccommodate jets, this airport is a tremendous economicdevelopment opportunity, given its proximity to downtown<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. In addition, a proposed commuter railstation is proposed just east <strong>of</strong> the airport property at theintersection <strong>of</strong> Cedars Road and the CSX tracks, which hasthe opportunity to allow passengers to transfer to rail andvice versa. The <strong>City</strong> should support and encourage theAirport Authoirty’s master plan for development <strong>of</strong> the areassurrounding the current airport property.GGC/College CorridorAs Georgia’s newest charted college, Georgia GwinnettCollege has an aggressive master plan for growth and anexpected enrollment <strong>of</strong> 15,000 in the next ten to fifteenyears. As the college grows, more staff and pr<strong>of</strong>essors willbe added, who will eat, shop and hopefully live in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>, like many <strong>of</strong> the students.The <strong>City</strong> should encourage the College to implement theirmaster plan while also working with the College staff onjointly examining the areas along Collins Hill/NorthdaleRoads south <strong>of</strong> SR 316 that have been topic areas for longrangeexpansion <strong>of</strong> college facilities. The <strong>City</strong> isundertaking a detailed master plan <strong>of</strong> the “college corridor”in an effort to coordinate transportation, development andland use changes in the corridor that will accommodate anddirect the growth <strong>of</strong> the College towards the downtown area<strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 7<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
DowntownThe <strong>City</strong>’s downtown area, which was ignored for manyyears as businesses moved out to more “suburban”locations, is still an undiscovered jewel. New restaurantsand cultural activities, like the recently-renovated AuroraTheater, are drawing lunchtime and evening crowdsdowntown in ever-increasing numbers.With a reinvigorated sense <strong>of</strong> community, the <strong>City</strong> with theassistance <strong>of</strong> several authorities, has encouraged andaccommodated a number <strong>of</strong> unique design concepts anduses for the downtown area encompassed by the“Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> Overlay District,” includingCornerstone, a mixed use development currently underconstruction.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials are hopeful that this development will besuccessful and will encourage other mixed use projects tocome to the downtown area to continue its resurgence as<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials are also targeting the areanorth <strong>of</strong> the courthouse square along Clayton and PerryStreets near the historic depot as a new “entertainmentdistrict,” in conjunction with the development <strong>of</strong> the CollegeCorridor Master <strong>Plan</strong> area. The <strong>City</strong> should continue to workwith the development community and property owners inthe downtown area to implement the Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong>.3.5 Natural and Cultural Resources3.5.1 Natural and Cultural Resources IssuesGreen Space and Park DevelopmentAlthough known as the “Crape Myrtle <strong>City</strong>,” and containing(or adjacent to) numerous parks, there is a lack <strong>of</strong>connectivity and greenspace for open space preservationand recreation/conservation. Residents must get in theircars to travel to nearby County facilities for many activerecreational activities.Preserving Historic AreasThere are many historical and older buildings in theDowntown Overlay District that can be revitalized andreused as cultural assets to the <strong>City</strong>, such as perhapsconverting the old Tabernacle Church into an independentfilm theater and/or concert hall. Although many <strong>of</strong> the<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 8<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
historical treasures <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> are within theDowntown Overlay District, there are historical areas andproperties outside <strong>of</strong> the downtown area that should bepreserved and protected from incompatible development aswell as be converted for cultural reuse, such as museumsand art galleries.Additional design and modification guidelines are needed forareas located near properties that qualify as candidates forredevelopment and infill development. These guidelinesshould address lot size, appropriate modifications, or theencroachment <strong>of</strong> incompatible development. Many <strong>of</strong> thehistoric sites and features may be at risk if inappropriatedevelopment occurs or if the historical structures are leftunused and unappreciated by the community.Groundwater ResourcesThe <strong>City</strong> has in past comprehensive plans placed a greatdeal <strong>of</strong> emphasis on the protection <strong>of</strong> the groundwaterresources underneath <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> (<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> aquifer).The <strong>City</strong> is currently using these resources to supplementthe water that is bought from Gwinnett County and is in thein the process <strong>of</strong> developing numerous additional wells toincrease the <strong>City</strong>’s water production. The <strong>City</strong> mustcontinue to protect the quality <strong>of</strong> the groundwater.3.5.2 Natural and Cultural ResourcesOpportunitiesGreen Space and Park PreservationEfforts should be made to create and implement acomprehensive green space/walking trail master plan andkeep it up-to-date. By developing a protectiveordinance/overlay district, the <strong>City</strong> could demonstrate itscommitment to protecting these resources frominappropriate development. The <strong>City</strong> should also undertakethe development <strong>of</strong> a series <strong>of</strong> neighborhood “pocketparks”, similar to Bartow Jenkins Park on US 29. These“pocket parks”, and accompanying trails, would providepedestrian/bicycle connection between neighborhoods andallow residents to exercise, visit and will also keep cars <strong>of</strong>f<strong>of</strong> the streets.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 9<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Protect Water Quality<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> should continue to provide local managementand oversight <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Aquifer, as well as towork with Gwinnett County and the Metropolitan NorthGeorgia Watershed Management District (MNGWMD) tomake sure that adequate groundwater and surface waterprotection policies and regulations are in effect.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> should continue to comply with and adaptMNGWMD model ordinances that regulate undergroundwater supply and stormwater management and controlsnonpoint source pollution that address a variety <strong>of</strong> waterquality issues including post-development run<strong>of</strong>f, floodplainmanagement, stream buffer protection, illicit discharge andillegal connections, and litter control. These modelordinances should be adapted to address the clean up <strong>of</strong>abandoned gas stations, industrial sites, and auto salvagelots.Concurrently with this effort, the <strong>City</strong> also owns propertythat contains an old community landfill from last century.This land has the potential to be redeveloped into morevaluable uses for the <strong>City</strong> and/or for private redevelopment,because it lies in the Downtown Master plan area. Furtherinvestigations will need to be done to “fix” the boundaries <strong>of</strong>the landfill and to investigate the costs and the availablefunds to remove the waste/remediate the site, and toexplore what uses could be placed on the site upon its finalclean up.State and Federal Historic Preservation ProgramsThe continued preservation <strong>of</strong> historic and cultural siteswithin the <strong>City</strong> and surrounding areas should be supported,appeal that attracts residents, business, and tourism to<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>, especially for properties just outside <strong>of</strong> theDowntown Master <strong>Plan</strong> areas, built immediately after WWII,which are now considered potentially eligible for NationalRegister <strong>of</strong> Historic Places status.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 10<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
3.6 Community Facilities and Services3.6.1 Community Facilities and ServicesIssuesAbility <strong>of</strong> infrastructure to meet growth needsAlthough Gwinnett County provides fire protection and otherservices for <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>, most other public services, suchas police, public works, solid waste management and water,gas and electric utilities, are owned and managed by the<strong>City</strong>. The <strong>City</strong>’s gas utility includes a much larger servicearea than the <strong>City</strong> Limits. Much <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s water ispurchased from Gwinnett County. The wholesale contracthas recently expired and the County is charging retail ratesto the <strong>City</strong>, which will cause rate increases and otherchallenges in the future unless it is addressed.Given the anticipated growth over the next twenty-twoyears, it is important that these facilities and services aremaintained and expanded as necessary to meet thedemands <strong>of</strong> the customers, residents and businesses in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Also, as <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s population continuesto diversify, the <strong>City</strong> should be sure to have (or expand)multi-lingual services for police and other departments thatinteract with the public.Office and storage space requirementsTogether with the need to expand the services <strong>of</strong>fered bythe <strong>City</strong>, the <strong>City</strong>’s facilities and storage should continue tobe monitored. Although the new <strong>City</strong> Hall was constructedseveral years ago, several departments are lacking (or willlack) space in the next several years.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s finest!3.6.2 Community Facilities and ServicesOpportunitiesExpand/upgrade <strong>City</strong> servicesThe <strong>City</strong> is currently preparing plans and obtaining financingto develop eight additional groundwater wells (i.e., bringexisting wells into active production) and to build anadditional treatment facility in the <strong>City</strong> to increase theamount <strong>of</strong> water the <strong>City</strong> produces. The increased localproduction will reduce the daily amount purchased from<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 11<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Gwinnett County and will provide significant long-termsavings for the <strong>City</strong>.The <strong>City</strong> will also upgrade and expand the gas and electricservices as the market develops and regulations change.Expand/upgrade <strong>City</strong> facilitiesThe <strong>City</strong> is currently in the process <strong>of</strong> having a new policeheadquarters designed to meet the future needs <strong>of</strong> thispublic service. However, the public works and public thatcannot be further expanded, partly due to its sitting on top<strong>of</strong> an old landfill. Sufficient land should be acquired that islarge enough to accommodate the immediate shop andequipment/vehicle storage needs <strong>of</strong> the Public Works/PublicUtilities and to allow for future growth.Rendering <strong>of</strong> proposed PoliceHeadquarters!The <strong>City</strong> should also develop a strategy to remediate the oldlandfill site to assist in groundwater protection and toprovide additional developable land downtown, which willbecome scarcer as the <strong>City</strong> continues to redevelop.Infill developmentContinued infill development in the downtown area, alongSR 316, the Medical Services area and other areas shouldpresent the ability to provide utilities without having toextend new lines into previously un-served areas.Additionally, new mixed use development the downtownarea may provide opportunities for future <strong>City</strong> departmentsto stay downtown near the social, cultural and economichub <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Also, as <strong>City</strong> properties are vacatedto larger facilities (such as the current police headquarters,which used to be an automotive dealership) may beredeveloped into commercial or mixed use projects in thedowntown area.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 12<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
3.7 Land Use3.7.1 Land Use IssuesUnique Sense <strong>of</strong> PlaceOne <strong>of</strong> the most-voiced complaints from the online surveysand from the steering committee meetings is the perceptionthat there is no “sense <strong>of</strong> place” that makes <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>special or unique. Due to years <strong>of</strong> indifference by residentsand <strong>of</strong>ficials alike regarding the growth patterns and usesallowed to develop in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>, it has been difficult todetermine where the <strong>City</strong> starts and unincorporatedGwinnett County stops.<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> street scenes – thesecould be anywhere in AmericaThe government hub <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> the fastest growing countiesin the United States is difficult to distinguish from thesurrounding shopping centers and subdivisions. GwinnettCounty has, over recent years, established overlay districtsin various “character areas” around the unincorporatedcounty that require design elements that distinguish theseareas from the remainder <strong>of</strong> the surrounding county. Manyin Gwinnett County point to Decatur, in DeKalb County, as amodel <strong>of</strong> a county seat with an abundance <strong>of</strong> “uniqueness”and urban development. Unless the <strong>City</strong> leaders make adetermined commitment to continue the recent efforts topromote <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> as a special place and incorporatespecific design elements <strong>of</strong> distinction, the <strong>City</strong> maycontinue to blend in with the surrounding county or beforeshadowed by higher county standards.Unattractive development <strong>of</strong> CorridorsMost <strong>of</strong> the significant commercial development in the <strong>City</strong>has occurred at the SR 316 interchanges and along thestate highway corridors. Much <strong>of</strong> the commercial growthsprawls outward from large retail developments andtouches boundaries with residential, <strong>of</strong>fice, and greenspaceareas. This can potentially limit the ability to improveconnectivity, improve land use transition or createpedestrian friendly environments.Many <strong>of</strong> these developments lack any redeemingarchitectural appeal and have their third or fourthgeneration <strong>of</strong> tenants, as development continued outwardfrom <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. The Pike Street and Grayson Highway<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 13<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
corridors are good examples <strong>of</strong> this strip corridordevelopment.Redevelopment <strong>of</strong> downtownAlthough there are many signs that the revitalization effortsare working in the downtown area, such as new restaurantsaround the square and the Cornerstone project underconstruction, there are many very viable properties that aresuffering from neglect. The continued revitalization <strong>of</strong> thedowntown area is crucial to the maturation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>into an established county seat (i.e., Marietta, Decatur, etc.)which have a significant cultural, social, entertainment andspecialty commercial presences.Preservation <strong>of</strong> older neighborhoodsOne <strong>of</strong> the strengths <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong> over the last twenty yearsis the older post-war residential neighborhoods along ScenicHighway and US 29. These neighborhoods are in danger <strong>of</strong>conversion into non-residential uses or to tip over into amajority renter-occupied community, which is a concern tothe continued long-term stability <strong>of</strong> the community as awhole. Many <strong>of</strong> the more recently developedneighborhoods (i.e., since the boom <strong>of</strong> the 1980’s) alongPaper Mill Road, Five Forks Trickum Road, and JohnsonRoad also face these same concerns. Mixed use develop isdesirable in many <strong>of</strong> these areas, but there needs to besufficient quantities <strong>of</strong> affordable housing for the futureresidents <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.Decreasing amounts <strong>of</strong> vacant landConsideration is being given as to the best way to expandthe <strong>City</strong> Limits and prepare for additional growth.Additional land for commercial, industrial, and mixed useland use development is desired.<strong>City</strong> growth is limited due to the developed portions <strong>of</strong>unincorporated Gwinnett County, which adjoin the <strong>City</strong>Limits. Some undeveloped parcels still remain along SR 316and in pockets near Sugarloaf Parkway and along US 29East (Winder Highway).<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 14<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
3.7.2 Land Use OpportunitiesIncrease opportunities for higher densityThe <strong>City</strong> should encourage development in the High RiseCorridor Overlay District (and Character Area) whereincreased densities are permitted. The <strong>City</strong> should alsoexamine other character areas and zoning districts todetermine where higher densities may be appropriate,especially in mixed use arrangements. Not every area <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong> would be appropriate for higher densities, butthere are many areas where multi-story <strong>of</strong>fice/retail andresidential buildings would be appropriate for a maturingcounty seat <strong>of</strong> an urbanizing county.Install overlay districts/formbased zoning to guideredevelopmentThe <strong>City</strong> should review the zoning ordinance, in light <strong>of</strong> therecommended Character Areas, to establish developmentoverlay districts or other techniques to guide thedevelopment <strong>of</strong> vacant parcels and the redevelopment <strong>of</strong>parcels. Although it will require a paradigm shift, the <strong>City</strong>may want to consider alternative approaches to traditionalzoning approaches to achieve the appearance, density anduse mixtures that have been discussed in this Agendadocument. Alternative approaches need also to enlist morerestrictive requirements that aid in protecting propertyvalues.A good example <strong>of</strong> this practice in place in the <strong>City</strong> is theredevelopment <strong>of</strong> Scenic Highway from Moon Road toGwinnett Drive. As is the case with many older residentialunits that front a major roadway in the County, the housesalong Scenic Highway have slowly been converted to <strong>of</strong>ficeuses. However, due to good planning by the <strong>City</strong> with theirwork to include a grassed median in the widening <strong>of</strong> ScenicHighway, and by the proper application <strong>of</strong> zoning principles(Office Neighborhood zoning district) along this section <strong>of</strong>roadway, the <strong>of</strong>fice uses do not seem in conflict withresidential uses in the adjacent neighborhoods. Theseprinciples can be extended to other areas <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 15<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Provide gateways into <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> to improvesense <strong>of</strong> placeThe <strong>City</strong> has made strides to start developing a clearerboundary between unincorporated Gwinnett County and the<strong>City</strong> Limits, especially along Scenic Highway, where newsignage has been installed and the <strong>City</strong> worked hard toinclude a landscaped median in the widening <strong>of</strong> theroadway several years ago. The <strong>City</strong> should develop a set<strong>of</strong> guidelines for strategic gateway nodes into <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>that would provide landscaping, signage, and other featuresto provide a clear delineation between the county and the<strong>City</strong>, as one measure <strong>of</strong> increasing (or reclaiming) the sense<strong>of</strong> place.3.8 Transportation3.8.1 Transportation IssuesStreet connectivityOne <strong>of</strong> the biggest issues in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> is the lack <strong>of</strong>connectivity <strong>of</strong> many local streets. This was most recentlybrought to light in the Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong>, completed in2005, which showed a number <strong>of</strong> streets from the original“grid” <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> that were never completed or havebeen abandoned in the past. Additionally, the presence <strong>of</strong>Aerial view <strong>of</strong> the westernedge <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> – notethe lack <strong>of</strong> connections acrossthe railroad tracks and theend <strong>of</strong> the traditional gridpattern.the CSX tracks and a ridgeline cuts the downtown area <strong>of</strong>ffrom the business and neighborhoods north <strong>of</strong> the tracks.There are only four north/south connections in the areanear the downtown, so connectivity between the traditional<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 16<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods is minimized,together with the tremendous traffic congestion on themajor roadways, making the lack <strong>of</strong> local street connectivitymore dramatic.Furthermore, in keeping with the “cul-de sac community”trends, neighborhoods <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> that were developedin the late 1960’s to early 2000’s, were built withoutvehiclular or pedestrian interconnectivity. Although stubstreets were required in many <strong>of</strong> these projects, adjacentvacant tracts were developed without connecting the twoneighborhoods together in most all cases, unless the newtract was an extension <strong>of</strong> the subdivision. Therefore thelifestyle <strong>of</strong> the newer communities was oriented around theindividual “subdivision” and not around the neighborhood(i.e., pre WWII and immediately post WWIIneighborhoods), with its different architectural style and itsdifferent lifestyles.Aerial view <strong>of</strong> subdivisions in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> – note the lack<strong>of</strong> connections betweendevelopmentsIncreasing traffic congestion<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> is crisscrossed with several state highways(SRs 120, 20, 124) and US 29 which have developed fromstagecoach routes, trails and local streets to multi-lanethrough routes. The traffic congestion in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>during the weekday, like most other cities in themetropolitan Atlanta area, becomes nearly unbearable, andwas one <strong>of</strong> the most frequently-cited complaints <strong>of</strong> theonline survey participants. Improvements made to theroadways in the past have been designed to quickly speedtraffic through the community, which has made much <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>, less <strong>of</strong> a destination and more <strong>of</strong> a “place to<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 17<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
get through.” With <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s continued growth,combined with the continued growth <strong>of</strong> the region, thetraffic congestion in and around <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> is only goingto get worse.Sidewalks/greenwaysMany newer subdivisions and local streets in the downtownarea contain sidewalks, but there is not a comprehensivegrid <strong>of</strong> sidewalks or greenways that connect destinationsthroughout the <strong>City</strong>. The lack <strong>of</strong> connections limit sidewalksas a viable transportation option for many residents, exceptwithin their immediate vicinity. With the increase <strong>of</strong>residents in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> who are not as automobiledependant,sidewalks become an important means <strong>of</strong> safelynavigating the crowded streets <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>.Lack <strong>of</strong> interparcel connectivityMany <strong>of</strong> the older commercial and <strong>of</strong>fice developments in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> have no interparcel access between them,forcing patrons to enter onto the major roadways to movefrom building to building. These movements increase thetraffic on these roadways and can cause other problems forthe <strong>City</strong>. West Pike Street (SR 120) from the railroad bridgeto SR 316 is a prime example <strong>of</strong> this type <strong>of</strong> development.Aerial view <strong>of</strong> Pike Street nearthe hospital – note the lack <strong>of</strong>interparcel connectionsand/or service alleys.To illustrate this point, the adjacent figure shows thecommercial area adjacent to the Gwinnett Medical Centerlacks sufficient interparcel access with the hospital property,which causes traffic tie ups on the main roadway into thehospital, causing the need for an <strong>of</strong>f-duty policeman toregulate turns into the Chick-Fil-A. However, getting out <strong>of</strong>this parking lot back to the hospital is nearly impossible<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 18<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
most <strong>of</strong> the day, which causes much frustration for visitorsto the hospital and patrons <strong>of</strong> this and other nearbyrestaurants. This problem is compounded by inadequatepedestrian connections from the Medical Center to thesebusinesses, which makes it challenging for employees andvisitors to safely walk from the Medical Center and adjacent<strong>of</strong>fice buildings to the eating and shopping opportunitiesalong Pike Street.Downtown Traffic circulationThe Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> addressed this issue in greatdetail with the one-way street pairings in the central part <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong> (Clayton and Crogan Streets and Perry andPike Streets), which move traffic through the downtownarea, but make it difficult for locals and visitors to travel tothe area to visit, shop or enjoy the cultural andentertainment activities. Combined with the lack <strong>of</strong> localstreet interconnectivity, many local vehicular trips are forcedonto the major roadways, which add to the trafficcongestion and frustration <strong>of</strong> all parties involved3.8.2 Transportation OpportunitiesImprove street connectivityThe <strong>City</strong> should closely examine opportunities to improvelocal street connections throughout the community, in asimilar fashion as was done in the downtown area. Trafficcongestion can be lessened through taking trips <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> themain roadways if the vehicles can get to their destinationswithout having to go on these crowded streets.Improve interparcel connectivity for uses alongmajor roadwaysAs an additional step, the <strong>City</strong> should require all new nonresidentialdevelopments, and where possible, existingdevelopments to provide interparcel access (both vehicularand non-vehicular) through shared driveways, side or rearalley access, or other means to allow vehicles to travel frombusiness to business without having to enter onto the mainroadways.Encourage Alternate Transportation ModesThe <strong>City</strong> should encourage the expansion or addition <strong>of</strong>alternative transportation modes to reduce vehicular tripson the major roadways and local streets and to promote<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 19<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Example <strong>of</strong> a multimodal station,similar to what could be built toserve the” Brain Train” – Athens, GAexercise and community spirit. Besides the expansion <strong>of</strong>the sidewalks and greenways in the <strong>City</strong>, the <strong>City</strong> shouldencourage:• the expansion <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Shuttle vansystem that are currently running between the GJACfacility and the downtown area;• the continued expansion <strong>of</strong> the Gwinnett Transit BusSystem; and• proposed “Brain Train” commuter train that wouldpass through <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> with two stops –downtown and near the Airport at Cedars (in theCounty).More mixed use developmentsMixed use developments allow residents and visitors toaccomplish several tasks without having to move their carbetween uses. More opportunities for locals to live, workand play in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> will have numerous positiveeffects on traffic congestion, economic development andland use patterns.Increase sidewalks and greenways<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> should continue ongoing projects to improveand upgrade sidewalks in the community, though CDBG andTransportation Enhancement funds. The <strong>City</strong> should alsorequire improved sidewalk connectivity on newdevelopments (particularly with connections betweenbusinesses and the adjoining roads). The <strong>City</strong> should studythe possibility <strong>of</strong> a greenway trail system using utilityeasements, stream corridors and other means to connectneighborhoods, parks and recreational opportunities withschools, commercial areas and employment centers.3.9 Intergovernmental Coordination3.9.1 Intergovernmental Coordination IssuesMunicipalCounty CoordinationThe <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> in conjunction with GwinnettCounty, cooperate to provide or share services such asParks and Recreation, E911, Emergency Services, Sheriff’sOffice, schools and sewer. The <strong>City</strong> should meet regularlywith Gwinnett County and its’ neighboring municipalities todiscuss these issues and others pertinent to the area suchas water resources and transportation management. Many<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 20<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
<strong>of</strong> these discussions may currently be facilitated throughregularly scheduled meetings with ARC and various localand regional governing bodies.Regional Transportation <strong>Plan</strong>ning<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficials need to continue to be actively involved in thetransportation planning activities with ARC, GRTA, and theGwinnett County DOT. Transportation issues affecteveryone and are the foundation for many home purchases,employment selections and economic developmentdecisions.3.9.2 Intergovernmental CoordinationOpportunitiesContinue MultiJurisdictional CoordinationContinue to discuss issues and solutions regarding ServiceDelivery Agreements in order to provide the best possibleservices to residents. Maintain proactive involvement intransportation and water resources planning, problemidentification, and problem resolution.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 3 - 21<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4: ImplementationProgramThe three subsections included in this section outline theoverall strategy for achieving the Community Vision and foraddressing the Community Issues and Opportunities for the<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. It identifies specific measures to beundertaken by the <strong>City</strong> to implement the plan. The threesubsections include the following:• Policies• Report <strong>of</strong> Accomplishments• Short-Term Work Program4.1 Policies4.1.1 HousingProvide quality alternative housing choices for a “fulllifecycle community” so that <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>residents have the opportunity to enjoy thecommunity throughout their lives. Support and promote the Atlanta RegionalCommission’s Regional Development <strong>Plan</strong> BestHousing Policies.• Protect the character and integrity <strong>of</strong> existingneighborhoods, while also meeting the needs <strong>of</strong>communities.• Encourage a variety <strong>of</strong> home styles, densities andprice ranges in locations that are accessible to jobsand services to ensure housing for individuals andfamilies <strong>of</strong> all incomes and age groups.• Promote new communities that feature greenspaceand neighborhood parks, pedestrian scale, supporttransportation options and provide an appropriatemix <strong>of</strong> uses and housing types.• Promote sustainable and energy efficientdevelopment.• Promote and facilitate the redevelopment <strong>of</strong>neighborhoods that have fallen into disrepair.• Establish, with changes to the zoning ordinance,<strong>City</strong>-wide design and development standards toimprove the quality <strong>of</strong> new housing construction.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 1<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Encourage a mixture <strong>of</strong> housing values throughoutthe <strong>City</strong> that allow for economic and social diversitywhile promoting quality <strong>of</strong> life issues.• Establish a balance <strong>of</strong> housing types, costs anddensities that result in a positive fiscal impact for the<strong>City</strong>.• Ensure that housing developments with commonareas are well constructed and include high-quality,sustainable landscaping and amenities.• Continue Quality <strong>of</strong> Life improvement effortsthroughout the <strong>City</strong>. Continue to support the efforts <strong>of</strong> the<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Housing Authority to provide safe,affordable housing for those unable to otherwiselive in the <strong>City</strong>. Encourage and promote “academicfriendly”housing alternatives in the College corridor area.• Encourage traditional neighborhoods and mixed-usedevelopments.• Encourage a variety <strong>of</strong> types <strong>of</strong> new multi-familyhousing, such as town homes and stacked-flats. Encourage and promote the development <strong>of</strong> theHigh Rise Corridor along SR 316 for higherdensity residential uses.• Encourage a wide variety <strong>of</strong> mixed-usedevelopments with multi-story residentialcomponents within the corridor.• Continue to review the high rise overlay district inthe zoning ordinance for compatibility with housingtrends and with development patterns in adjacentcharacter areas.• Review utility expansion plans to determine ifadequate <strong>City</strong> utilities are (or will be) available forthe anticipated demand in the corridor. Encourage and promote the development <strong>of</strong>seniorfriendly and highend housing in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Encourage senior-oriented residential developments,where possible, near the Gwinnett Medical Centerfor easier access to medical resources.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 2<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Review zoning ordinance and developmentregulations to determine if changes need to be madeto accommodate the special requirements <strong>of</strong> seniororientedhousing.• Promote the development <strong>of</strong> higher-end housing toprovide opportunities to upper-income individualsand families to move (or stay) in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Promote and investigate methods <strong>of</strong> balancingowner occupied housing with rental propertiesthat are more in line with other respectivecommunityfriendly cities.• Research funding sources to undertake acomprehensive housing study to inventory housingneeds and available opportunities to affordable andsafe, quality housing.4.1.2 Economic Development Maintain a comprehensive economicdevelopment plan. Hire a qualified individual to manage theeconomic development efforts <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong> (i.e., someone to “sell”<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>). Manage Economic Development through regularreviews and updates to the EconomicDevelopment <strong>Plan</strong>.• Expand architectural and site design standards, signordinances, tree and lighting standards, andlandscaping and fencing requirements to commercialand industrial zoning districts outside <strong>of</strong> thedowntown master plan area, including the possibleestablishment <strong>of</strong> overlay districts with highlydeveloped design standards.• Work with Gwinnett County to encourage alternativemeans <strong>of</strong> transportation, such as expansion <strong>of</strong> theGwinnett Transit System in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>; the<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Trolley shuttle service; private vanpools; bicycle programs which utilizes bike trails,pathways and bicycle-sharing; pedestrian pathwaysand sidewalks; and commuter rail service.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 3<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Continue to promote reinvestment in establishedcommercial areas such as the downtown commercialdistrict (Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> area).• Promote reinvestment in commercial areas outside<strong>of</strong> the downtown commercial district, such as thedepot area; Scenic Highway and Gwinnett Drive;Grayson Highway and Pike Street/Winder Highway.• Encourage commercial development opportunitieswithin the <strong>City</strong> that will allow for residents to walk ortravel short distances to work and shoppingdestinations. Promote Live -Work-Play opportunities.• Continue to support the efforts <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Tourism and Trade Association (LTTA). Continue to promote the expansion anddevelopment <strong>of</strong> the Gwinnett Medical Centercomplex <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> Pike Street.• Review utility expansion plans to determine ifadequate <strong>City</strong> utilities are (or will be) available forthe anticipated demand in and around the MedicalCenter property.• Encourage new projects on the Medical Centercomplex to incorporate improved pedestrianconnectivity. Continue to promote the expansion anddevelopment <strong>of</strong> the Gwinnett County Airport(Briscoe Field).• Encourage the Airport Authority to continue theimplementation <strong>of</strong> the Airport Master <strong>Plan</strong>.• Continue efforts to increase <strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’srepresentation on the Airport Authority board.• Undertake discussions to annex remaining airportproperty, and adjacent industrial properties ifpossible, into the <strong>City</strong> to provide more consistentservice delivery to the area. Promote environmentally clean industry andbusiness.• Ensure new development pays its fair share <strong>of</strong>infrastructure improvements.• Target business recruitment efforts to types <strong>of</strong> firmsmost suitable for <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> and most likely to<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 4<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
establish or expand activity in the <strong>City</strong>, such asspecialty medical manufacturing.• Encourage growth <strong>of</strong> small businesses with technicalsupport, particularly in association with local colleges(e.g., Georgia Gwinnett College and N. GwinnettTechnical College).• Promote diversity in the <strong>City</strong>’s commercial andindustrial base. Increase the viability <strong>of</strong> businesses in downtown<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Continue strategic public investments to attract moreprivate business in the area and expand thepedestrian scale commercial district (such as walkingtrails and sidewalks).• Support the activity <strong>of</strong> the Downtown DevelopmentAuthority and LTTA.• Continue to implement the provisions <strong>of</strong> theDowntown Master <strong>Plan</strong> provisions. Promote balanced growth and diversity inresidential development, business and industry.• Support strategic public investments to attract moreprivate business.• Encourage appropriate mixed use and infilldevelopment on available land within the <strong>City</strong> Limits.• Seek opportunities to broaden the <strong>City</strong>’s revenuebase.• Establish a marketing strategy for the <strong>City</strong> thatemphasizes growth with positive quality <strong>of</strong> lifeissues.4.1.3 Natural and Cultural ResourcesPreserve, protect and increase the awareness <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s valuable natural resources. Support and promote the Atlanta RegionalCommission’s Regional Development <strong>Plan</strong> OpenSpace and Preservation Policies.• Protect environmentally sensitive areas includingwetlands, floodplains, small water supplywatersheds, groundwater recharge area, rivers andstream corridors.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 5<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Increase the amount, quality, connectivity andaccessibility <strong>of</strong> greenspace. The <strong>City</strong> shouldcoordinate greenspace locations and connectionswith surrounding jurisdictions where possible.• Provide strategies to preserve and enhance historicresources. Increase the overall acreage <strong>of</strong> protected greenspace. Preserve the <strong>City</strong>’s tree canopy through increasedprotection measures. Coordinate underground water supply protectionmeasures with Gwinnett County and theMetropolitan North Georgia WatershedManagement District (MNGWMD). Continue to educate citizens, local <strong>of</strong>ficials, anddevelopers about the value <strong>of</strong> natural resourcesand the importance <strong>of</strong> protective measures. Improve pedestrian access to promote a walkablecommunity.Promote the arts, cultural affairs and broadrangecommunity programs. Promote the development <strong>of</strong> the area around theDepot on Clayton Street as an arts andentertainment destination, tied in with thedevelopment <strong>of</strong> the College Corridor. Continue to support the Aurora Theater, localartists and local performances.Improve existing park and recreational facilities andplan for future expansions. Continue the development <strong>of</strong> multiuse paths,trails, parks and open spaces to provide passiveand active recreation opportunities.• Prepare a Master <strong>Plan</strong> for walking trail/multi-usepaths locations to provide cost estimates fordevelopment.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 6<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Continue to acquire land for, and develop, pocketparks, similar to Bartow Jenkins Park, for passiverecreational opportunities for residents.• Prepare a Master <strong>Plan</strong> for pocket park developmentto identify locations suitable for park developmentand to provide cost estimates for development.Integrate historic preservation into the planningprocess. Ensure that existing zoning ordinances have apositive impact on cultural, historic and naturalresources. Continue to protect the integrity <strong>of</strong> existingneighborhoods by requiring that all newdevelopment matches the scale and style <strong>of</strong>existing structures. Educate homeowners, business owners anddevelopers on historic preservation issues andimplementation. Promote heritage education and tourism.4.1.4 Community Transportation, Facilitiesand Services4.1.4.1 TransportationPromote and maintain an efficient transportationnetwork to support regional circulation whileminimizing traffic congestion in the downtown<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> area and providing and encouragingalternative transportation options for the <strong>City</strong>’sresidents and businesses. Work to incorporate Best TransportationPractices from the Atlanta Regional Commission’sRegional Development <strong>Plan</strong> (RDP). Support, promote, participate in the scheduledupdates to the Gwinnett County <strong>Comprehensive</strong>Transportation <strong>Plan</strong>, the Atlanta RegionalCommission’s Regional Strategic TransportationSystem, Regional Freight Mobility <strong>Plan</strong>, and theRegional Bicycle and Pedestrian <strong>Plan</strong>.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 7<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Work with county and state resources to discoverways to reduce traffic congestion on<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>’s major thoroughfares.• Encourage increased interconnectivity <strong>of</strong> nonresidentialuses to reduce traffic congestion.• Employ Access Management techniques alongGrayson Highway and other mixed-use and gatewaycorridors.• Review zoning ordinances and Developmentregulations to determine if interparcel connectivity isrequired.• Encourage more mixed use projects to help reducevehicle trips.• Examine funding sources and feasibility <strong>of</strong>retr<strong>of</strong>itting commercial uses along majorthoroughfares with alleys, service drives or othermeans <strong>of</strong> increasing connectivity.• Research funding mechanisms to improve localstreet connectivity, widening, and additionalsidewalk connections where possible.• Continue discussions with County and State <strong>of</strong>ficialson re-routing through traffic on US 29 and SR 120from downtown <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.• Continue Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> implementationstrategy to expand “grid” pattern for downtownstreets; to eliminate one-way pairs on non-DOTstreets downtown; to extend some dead end streetsin order to alleviate some <strong>of</strong> the local traffic <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong>the major thoroughfares.• Continue to support the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Trolley busservice to connect GJAC, the Hospital and otherdestinations with the downtown area.• Research and pursue Livable Centers Initiative (LCI)possibilities for the College Corridor area betweendowntown and SR 316/Georgia Gwinnett College toprovide increased connectivity <strong>of</strong> streets thatintersect Northdale/Collins Hill Roads, such asrealignment <strong>of</strong> Maltbie Street and North ClaytonStreets. Continue to support Georgia DOTs efforts towiden SR 316 and coordinate local transportationimprovements with the new SR 316 roadway/ramp alignments.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 8<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Continue coordination with Gwinnett CountyDepartment <strong>of</strong> Transportation and Georgia DOTregarding programmed transportationinfrastructure improvements. Coordinate with Gwinnett County Transit, GRTAand ARC to consider commuter or local bus routesand that stops are appropriately planned for andincorporated in the transportation network, landuse plan and RTP. Continue to pursue funding to expand thesidewalk construction/expansion program in the<strong>City</strong>.• Include increased pedestrian connections from theGeorgia Gwinnett College in any LCIapplications/studies, including a multi-use pathunderneath SR 316 to the Wal-Mart shopping centerarea.• Continue to pursue Transportation Enhancement andSPLOST funds to extend the streetscapeimprovements in the downtown area, and pursueadditional grant programs for streetscapeimprovements along all <strong>City</strong> corridors. Continue to use SPLOST funds to makeimprovements to local streets as determined bythe Public Works Department. Continue locally funded street maintenanceand/or resurfacing program. Continue to support the development <strong>of</strong> the“Brain Train” commuter rail effort betweenAtlanta and Athens.• Seek out partners to fund a feasibility study for amulti-modal station in the downtown area adjacentto the CSX tracks to integrate bus, train and nonvehiculartraffic.• Integrate the possibility <strong>of</strong> a multi-modal station int<strong>of</strong>uture transportation and land use plans for theCollege Corridor LCI study. Strive to develop a connected citywidepedestrian network that incorporated andconnects to alternative modes <strong>of</strong> transportation.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 9<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
• Pursue assistance from PATH, ABC, PEDS and otherpedestrian advocacy groups to obtain their expertiseon the design and implementation <strong>of</strong> safe andconvenient bicycle and pedestrian facilitiesthroughout the <strong>City</strong>.4.1.4.2 Water Supply and WastewaterEncourage water conservation and appropriateexpansion <strong>of</strong> water/wastewater facilities. Use water conservation measures within <strong>City</strong>operations, including low water landscapingpractices (xeriscaping), high efficiency interiorand exterior water fixtures in all <strong>City</strong> buildings,less frequent washing <strong>of</strong> <strong>City</strong> vehicles, andstormwater collection and redistribution. Examine water conservation measures for<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> water customers, include rebateprograms for lowflow fixtures and othermeasures to reduce water use. Educate the public about the importance <strong>of</strong> wellwater conservation, so as not to deplete theresource. Establish watering regulations andrestrictions that reflect these conservationmatters. Continue groundwater well development to takeadvantage <strong>of</strong> the presence <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Aquifer and to reduce reliance on GwinnettCounty for potable water. Continue program to build a new water treatmentfacility to treat groundwater from the eight wellsto be brought into the system. Continue water meter replacement and othermaintenance tasks to increase systemperformance and to reduce unaccounted forwater loss.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 10<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.1.4.3 Storm WaterEncourage innovative practices in storm watermanagement and maintenance. Continue watershed/stormwater managementprogram (NPDES and MS4) to strengthen policiesfor stormwater, erosion and sedimentationcontrol within the <strong>City</strong>. Continue to make stormwater infrastructureimprovements with funds from the StormwaterUtility, based upon the recommendations <strong>of</strong> theStormwater Board. <strong>Plan</strong> for future maintenance <strong>of</strong> stormwaterinfrastructure.4.1.4.4 Solid WasteImprove community consciousness regardingrecycling and waste disposal issues. Expand current recycling program. Establish a recycling program for <strong>City</strong> Hall and allother <strong>City</strong> departments. Continue Quality <strong>of</strong> Life program for reducingillegal dumping through the placement <strong>of</strong>dumpsters in neighborhoods on a rotating basis. Continue to collect solid waste through the <strong>City</strong>’sSanitation Department and upgrade equipmentand vehicles as needed. Continue efforts to define extent <strong>of</strong> buriedgarbage at the old landfill on <strong>City</strong> property nearthe <strong>City</strong> public works and utility departments. Pursue funding sources to reclaim old landfillproperty for redevelopment through removal <strong>of</strong>waste on the site.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 11<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.1.4.5 Public SafetyContinue to develop and refine the functioning <strong>of</strong>public safety services. Encourage fair and humane application <strong>of</strong>existing laws and regulations by local lawenforcement <strong>of</strong>ficials. Continue to be cognizant <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>’s changingdemographics and employ or retain translatorsand/or multilingual personnel and resources tomake sure that residents can be heard and thatpolice <strong>of</strong>ficers are clearly understood. Provide informational packages to all newresidents, at time <strong>of</strong> utility account initiation, thatexplains quality <strong>of</strong> life issues in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> andalso explains the penalties for not followingincorporated rules. These packages may need tobe written in several languages. Continue program <strong>of</strong> relocating the policeheadquarters facility to provide the most modernfacilities available. Continue to upgrade equipment and vehicles asneeded. Promote more interaction between citizens andpolice.4.1.4.6 Public UtilitiesContinue to provide high levels <strong>of</strong> customer servicein the provision <strong>of</strong> natural gas and electric utilities. Continue to upgrade equipment and vehicles asneeded. Continue to expand the gas system as servicedemands it. Continue to upgrade electric and gas systems asservice demands or as regulations require. Acquire additional land and secure funding torelocate public utilities and public works shops,equipment storage and other facilities from thecurrent site on Branson Street.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 12<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Consider establishment <strong>of</strong> a program to placeoverhead utilities underground in conjunctionwith streetscape improvements along major <strong>City</strong>highway corridors.4.1.4.7 Hospital and Health CenterContinue monitoring and assessing patient needswithin the <strong>City</strong>. Continue supporting the efforts <strong>of</strong> the GwinnettHospital System to expand the Gwinnett MedicalCenter, including the efforts to build a cardiaccare center and expand stroke/trauma centeroperations. Continue to support further development <strong>of</strong> themedical community in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Support the further development <strong>of</strong> specialtymedical manufacturing and similar industries in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Continue to support increased accessibility andinterconnectivity <strong>of</strong> uses within the MedicalServices Cluster area to improve pedestrianfacilities, reduce congestion along Pr<strong>of</strong>essionalBoulevard, and to improve pedestrian access tothe commercial and <strong>of</strong>fice uses on the east side <strong>of</strong>Pike Street (SR 120).4.1.4.8 Government Facilities and ServicesContinue efforts to provide the highest level <strong>of</strong>customer service and accountability in light <strong>of</strong> thechanging nature <strong>of</strong> the population in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Continue to provide translation services and/ormultilingual employees for general governmentand court services.4.1.4.9 EducationStrengthen relations with the Gwinnett County Board<strong>of</strong> Education. Continue to monitor new school locations withinthe <strong>City</strong> limits and their future demands on <strong>City</strong>services.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 13<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Continue to support with School Board <strong>of</strong>ficials onefforts to improve education and quality <strong>of</strong> thefacilities in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> so that <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> isa destination for families who want a goodeducation for their children, and not a reason torelocate. Recognize that private educational opportunitiesare possible for the residents <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>and that private/parochial schools may belooking at the <strong>City</strong> as a site for future facilities.4.1.5 Intergovernmental CoordinationSupport and promote the Atlanta RegionalCommission’s Regional Development <strong>Plan</strong>Coordination Policies. Assist local governments to adopt growthmanagement strategies that make more efficientuse <strong>of</strong> existing infrastructure. Inform and involve the public in planning atregional, local and neighborhood levels. Coordinate local policies and regulations tosupport Regional Policies. Encourage the development <strong>of</strong> state and regionalgrowth management policies. Continue increased communication andcooperation between all municipalities inGwinnett County. Coordinate transportation improvements aroundthe Gwinnett Justice and Administrative Centerwith Gwinnett County’s facility expansion plans. Consider economic and land use impacts tosurrounding jurisdictions during planning efforts. Participate in regional water resourcemanagement planning with state, regional andlocal authorities.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 14<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Participate in regional transportationmanagement planning with state, regional andlocal authorities. Continue to facilitate meetings with local andregional government bodies to ensure that theneeds and services <strong>of</strong> the <strong>City</strong>’s residents areproperly planned for.4.1.6 Land UseEstablish appropriate planning procedures andinnovative planning tools to guide growth anddevelopment. Support and promote the Atlanta RegionalCommission’s Regional Development <strong>Plan</strong>Developed Area Policies.• Promote sustainable economic growth in all areas <strong>of</strong>the region.• Encourage development within principaltransportation corridors, the Central BusinessDistrict, activity centers, and town centers.• Increase opportunities for mixed-use development,transit-oriented development, infill andredevelopment.• At strategic regional locations, plan and retainindustrial and freight land uses.• Design transportation infrastructure to protect thecontext <strong>of</strong> adjoining development and provide asense <strong>of</strong> place appropriate for our communities.• Promote the reclamation <strong>of</strong> brownfield developmentsites. Continue to monitor innovative zoning anddevelopment regulation practices to determine ifformbased zoning or similar practices might helpthe <strong>City</strong> better achieve its vision <strong>of</strong> a “full lifecycle”community. Integrate character area overlay districts into the<strong>City</strong>’s Zoning Ordinance to help areas in need <strong>of</strong>improvement. Foster public/private partnerships that willimprove planning procedures and tools.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 15<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Continue to provide clarity, efficiency, equity, andconsistency in <strong>City</strong> department policies andprocedures relating to land development review. Coordinate with Gwinnett County and adjacentmunicipalities on decisions relating to land useand land development.Promote orderly growth and development based onphysical, social, and economic needs, environmentalconsiderations, and public facilities and services. Provide sufficient opportunities for each land usetype to serve the needs <strong>of</strong> the community. Ensure compatibility between land uses whenmaking land development decisions. Mitigate possible adverse impacts <strong>of</strong> new landdevelopment. Maximize the use <strong>of</strong> existing and programmedpublic facilities. Minimize public service costsand reduce environmental impacts <strong>of</strong>development. Ensure that work and service areas areconvenient to living areas to promote energyconservation. Establish criteria for implementing aredevelopment policy within the <strong>City</strong>. Evaluate development proposals based on theimpacts to adjacent land uses and servicedelivery. Promote an attractive environment throughdesign guidelines specific to each character area. Coordinate the installation <strong>of</strong> sidewalks with theGeorgia DOT and the Gwinnett DOT on all non<strong>City</strong> owned thoroughfares within the <strong>City</strong> Limits. Avoid land use patterns that result in the costly,overextension <strong>of</strong> community facilities orservices.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 16<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Protect and preserve established neighborhoodsincluding those <strong>of</strong> historical significance to the<strong>City</strong>.Improve and rehabilitate existing neighborhoods by: Eliminating or minimizing the impact <strong>of</strong> blightingfactors such as incompatible land uses and highvolume traffic routes. Upgrading public facilities and services. Providing basic amenities such as parks and openspace. Encouraging the rehabilitation and/orreplacement <strong>of</strong> substandard residentialstructures. Promote the preservation <strong>of</strong> older or historichomes through adaptive reuse, and reviewexisting policies to determine if appropriatedesign guidelines are needed. Provide transition in scale and/or land usebetween high and low intensity land uses. Provide opportunities for higher densityresidential development to serve as a bufferbetween nonresidential nodes and surroundingsinglefamily detached neighborhoods. Permit residential/mixed uses while maintainingthe retail character <strong>of</strong> local streets. Retain singlefamily housing as the predominanthousing type in <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>. Ensure that higher density housing is located inclose proximity to major thoroughfares,employment centers, shopping facilities, andother activity centers.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 17<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Provide for the development <strong>of</strong> appropriatecommercial facilities on both <strong>City</strong>wide andneighborhood levels while revitalizing undesirableexisting facilities. Encourage reuse and revitalization <strong>of</strong> obsoletecommercial facilities. Encourage and promote technological industriesthat rely on highlyskilled labor forces anddevelop in technology parktype settings ratherthan heavy industry. Promote walkable (pedestrianoriented andnicelylandscaped) and planned (rather thanstrip) commercial development. Restrict further commercial strip development onmajor streets beyond existing developed andzoned areas. Within existing strip commercialareas, allow for the infilling <strong>of</strong> compatible mixeduses. Promote commercial development that containscompatible and complementary uses. Promote safe and adequate ingress to and egressfrom commercial development. Promote interparcel connectivity and servicealleys to reduce congestion on collector roads andmajor thoroughfares. Provide safe and adequate pedestrian and bicycleaccess to and within commercial and activitycenters. Encourage the location <strong>of</strong> neighborhoodscalecommercial uses in areas convenient to existingand future residential development.Retain existing business and pr<strong>of</strong>essional <strong>of</strong>fices, andprovide for the development <strong>of</strong> suitable areas forbusiness and pr<strong>of</strong>essional <strong>of</strong>fices. Encourage retail and <strong>of</strong>fice uses to locate indesignated areas that are well served by publicinfrastructure.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 18<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Encourage retail and <strong>of</strong>fice uses to be designed sothat they are compatible with surrounding landuses. Ensure that <strong>of</strong>fice/pr<strong>of</strong>essional developmentsaddress adequate buffering, appropriate parking,and open space. Locate <strong>of</strong>fice development near commercialactivities and higher density residential areas. Continue to promote conversion <strong>of</strong> residentialuses in transitional areas to <strong>of</strong>fice pr<strong>of</strong>essionaluses to minimize impact on existing residencesand to provide buffers between incompatibleuses. Continue to require safe and adequate ingress toand egress from <strong>of</strong>fice development and adequateland for <strong>of</strong>fstreet parking and internal vehicularcirculation.Retain existing compatible industry and preserveadequate land, services, and facilities for expansionand growth <strong>of</strong> light, clean industrial activities. Encourage reuse and revitalization <strong>of</strong> industrialfacilities. Encourage the development <strong>of</strong> clean,environmentally safe industry within industrialland use zones. Engage the industrial community within<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> to discuss transportation /circulation concerns and to develop solutions totransportation and land use problems. Ensure that industrial sites are designed foradequate buffering, parking and open space. Encourage environmentally friendly parking lotsite plans. Restrict industrial uses that have nuisancecharacteristics and detract from the character <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 19<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Locate new industrial uses to ensure access tomajor thoroughfares. Ensure that industrial development has adequatepublic facilities and utilities. Discourage industrial uses that are incompatiblewith surrounding uses.Provide adequate public and semipublic facilitiesand services to meet the needs <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>'spopulation. Seek centralized locations for municipal buildingsand facilities.• Monitor vacant land in areas that are conducive tothe future development <strong>of</strong> government facilities.• Investigate possible funding sources for theacquisition <strong>of</strong> said property• Coordinate efforts with Gwinnett County, wherepossible, to identify potential government operationssites/buildings. Encourage land developers to provide sites forschools and other government facilities in properrelationship to existing and future residentialdevelopment. Encourage environmentally friendly parking lotsite plans.Continue to promote the revitalization <strong>of</strong> thedowntown master plan area. Continue to monitor implementation <strong>of</strong> theDowntown Master <strong>Plan</strong>. Encourage continued revitalization <strong>of</strong> thedowntown district through public/privateimprovements. Discourage large surface parking lots byencouraging parking decks or shared parkingareas. Provide adequate signage for existing municipalparking lots.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 20<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Provide safe and adequate pedestrian and bicycleaccess from nearby areas to commercial and<strong>of</strong>fice uses in the downtown area. On a limited basis, encourage residential useswithin the downtown area. Promote highquality landscape design along thecorridors leading into the downtown area. Promote the development <strong>of</strong> the commercial andresidential areas adjacent to the CSX tracksaround Clayton Street as an entertainment andcultural arts destination.Maximize the attractive character <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>by establishing aesthetically pleasing gateways andcorridors into the <strong>City</strong>. Utilize open space, pocket parks, and otherbuffers to minimize adverse impact <strong>of</strong> noise andvibration generated by vehicular traffic. Improve the aesthetic quality <strong>of</strong> land uses alonggateways and corridors into the <strong>City</strong> with lighting,landscaping and signage improvements. Regularly evaluate <strong>City</strong> ordinances that enforcezoning and building standards, especiallyordinances that promote the health, safety andwelfare along the corridors and gateways into the<strong>City</strong>.• Establish design guidelines for gatewaynodes/corridors.4.1.7 Land Redevelopment & InfillDevelopment Promote the redevelopment <strong>of</strong> underutilized orvacated land or structures. Promote the redevelopment <strong>of</strong> land whose landuse function is outdated or obsolete. Promote increased buffers and greenspace in thetransitional areas between residential andindustrial land uses.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 21<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Identify and investigate the large scale (multiparcel)redevelopment potential <strong>of</strong> areas in need<strong>of</strong> redevelopment or revitalization. Provide economic incentives to identify andredevelop multiparcel areas with underutilized,vacated, or outdated land uses. Identify and promote infill developmentopportunities <strong>of</strong> vacant or underutilized landwithin developed areas <strong>of</strong> the city. Provide economic incentives to identify andredevelop vacant or underutilized land withindeveloped areas <strong>of</strong> the city in which infilldevelopment is appropriate.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 22<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.2 20052008 Report <strong>of</strong> AccomplishmentsProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyRoadsJackson Street Improvement 2006 2007 $2,800,000Luckie Street Improvement2008designongoing $435,792<strong>City</strong>,County,StateARC, DOT,TEA<strong>City</strong>, County,State<strong>City</strong>, privateTransportation & TransitStudy2005 2006 $57,500 SPLOST <strong>City</strong>Two-way Streets Downtown2007LCI, DOT,ongoing $575,000design<strong>City</strong><strong>City</strong><strong>City</strong>,Parking Deck EAST <strong>of</strong>2005 2007 $2,875,000 SPLOST,Squareprivate<strong>City</strong>, privateTraffic calming effectsARC, DOT,2006 ongoing ?downtownTEA<strong>City</strong>Scenic Hwy. & New Hope<strong>City</strong>, DOT,2005 2006 $500,000Road intersection upgradeSPLOST<strong>City</strong>, DOTWidening <strong>of</strong> SR 20 2006 ongoing ? DOT DOTWidening <strong>of</strong> US 29 fromdowntown to Paper Mill Rd.2008 ongoing ? DOT DOTPaper Mill Rd. & SpringlakeRd. intersection2007 2008 ? GCDOT GCDOTimprovementsSugarloaf Parkway Extension 2005 Constructionfrom SR 20 to New Hope Rd. design ongoingSPLOST GCDOTPike Street & Langley Driveintersection improvements2007 2007 $70,000 County GCDOTParksRhodes Jordan ParkExtensionRhodes Jordan Edge Trail &LandscapingBike & Walking Trail Master<strong>Plan</strong>Bike & Walking Trail Design& Build2006design2006designongoing $200,000<strong>City</strong>,County, ARC<strong>City</strong>, Countyongoing $230,000 <strong>City</strong>, County County2006 2007 $30,0002007designongoing $300,000<strong>City</strong>,County,SPLOST<strong>City</strong>,County,SPLOST<strong>City</strong><strong>City</strong>Community FacilitiesNew Aurora Theatre 2005 2006 $1,000,000New LTTA Office2006design2007 $32,200<strong>City</strong>,SPLOSTSPLOST,LTTA<strong>City</strong>LTTA<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 23<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.2 20052008 Report <strong>of</strong> Accomplishments continuedProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyNew Visitor & WelcomeCenterNew Police BuildingMove Historic Isaac-AdairHouse & Log Cabin fromSugarloaf Parkway Extensionpath to Clayton StreetGC Health Department moveto old WalmartGwinnett Medical Center 9-story Hospital Wing Addition1020-bed Dormitory at GGCollege2007design2007designongoing $115,000SPLOST,DDA, LTTA,grantsLTTAongoing $3,000,000 SPLOST <strong>City</strong>, DDA2008 2008 ? SPLOST County2007 2008 ? County County2007 ongoing ?2008designCounty,privateCounty,privateongoing ? State StateWater SystemEzzard Well RadiationTreatmentWiner Well #7 InternTreatment <strong>Plan</strong>tWiner Water Treatment<strong>Plan</strong>t & 10 wells200820082007studyongoingprojected2008ongoingprojected2008ongoingprojected2009$80,000 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>$60,000 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>$6,700,000 GEFA <strong>City</strong>Gas SystemGas Line Relocation – SR 81& Hwy. 78 IntersectionGas Line Relocation – onHwy. 20 from <strong>Plan</strong>tation Rd.to Ozora Rd.Automatic Meter ReadingChangeout2007 2007 $80,000 private <strong>City</strong>20072007phase 1$3,000,000 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>2006 ongoing ? <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>Downtown Isolation Valve 2008 ongoing $320,000 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>Tankless Water Heater<strong>City</strong>,<strong>City</strong>,2008 ongoing ?Programcustomers customersPolicies and ProceduresUpdate <strong>of</strong> Zoning Ordinance 2005 ongoing $0 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>High-rise Ordinance 2008 2008 $0 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong>Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> 2005 2005 $150,000 <strong>City</strong> <strong>City</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 24<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.3 ShortTerm Work ProgramEconomicDevelopmentProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyInitiate a Conceptual<strong>Plan</strong>ning and FeasibilityStudy for a <strong>City</strong> ConventionCenter.Initiate Detailed Design andConstruction <strong>of</strong> a <strong>City</strong>Conference Center.Hire an EconomicDevelopment Officer tomarket and “sell”<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.Continue to support efforts<strong>of</strong> the <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Downtown DevelopmentAuthority (LDDA) and the<strong>Lawrenceville</strong> Trade andTourism Association (LTTA)in their efforts to promotedowntown events and thecontinued development <strong>of</strong>the downtown area.Continue to support theAurora Theater and othercultural activities downtown.Encourage and support theexpansion <strong>of</strong> GwinnettMedical Center and itsefforts to become a regionalleader in trauma care andcardiac care.Encourage the continueddevelopment <strong>of</strong> specialtymanufacturing <strong>of</strong> medicalequipment and devices in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.Encourage development <strong>of</strong>quality hotel propertieswithin <strong>Lawrenceville</strong>.2009 2010 $20,000 <strong>City</strong>2010 2013 $15-20 million<strong>City</strong>SPLOSTother2009 ongoing $150,000/year <strong>City</strong>2009 ongoing $275,000/year<strong>City</strong>Hotel- Moteltax2009 ongoing N/A N/A2009 ongoing N/A N/A2009 ongoing N/A N/A2009 ongoing N/A N/A<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/LDDA/LTTA<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/LDDA/LTTA<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 25<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
TransportationProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyADA Sidewalk Improvements 2009 2013 $100,000/yearSidewalk Improvements(GJAC to Rhodes Jordan Park)Complete Luckie StreetImprovements.Complete Carver CircleImprovements.Complete Chestnut StreetImprovements.Construct improvements toNorthdale (“College Avenue”)Drive, as a part <strong>of</strong> the CollegeOverlay LCI project.InprogressInprogressInprogressInprogressStreet Resurfacing 2009 2013Design and Construction <strong>of</strong>One-Way Pair Removal(Clayton and Perry Streets)Participate in Conceptual <strong>Plan</strong>and Feasibility Study forMulti-modal Station andparking improvementsadjacent to railroad tracks.Prepare Master <strong>Plan</strong> andFeasibility Study for <strong>City</strong>Greenway/Walking TrailSystem to includeconnections with GwinnettCounty and neighboringcommunities.Review and update ZoningOrdinance to requireinterparcel access along stateand county roadways.Improve downtown municipalparking area signage andimprove communitywayfinding and directionalsignage.Coordinate proposedtransportation improvementsin the downtown area withthe expansion <strong>of</strong> facilities atGwinnett Justice andAdministration Center.2009 $650,000Gwinnett CDBGProgramTransportationEnhancementFunds/SPLOST2009 $1 million SPLOST2009 $250,000 SPLOST2009 $250,000 SPLOST2013 2016 $7-10 million TE/SPLOST/LCI$15 milliontotal2010 2013 $4.3 millionSPLOST/LARPLCIImplementationFunds2009 TBD SPLOST/State2009 2010Approx.$50,000<strong>City</strong>/SPLOST2010 2010 $3,000 <strong>City</strong>Inprogress2009 $25,000 <strong>City</strong> Funds2010 2015-2018 N/A N/A<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong>Gwinnett Co.State<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>,DDA, LTTA<strong>City</strong>Gwinnett Co.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 26<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
TransportationProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyContinue to support TownTrolley downtown shuttle.Initiate gateway nodesignage, lighting andbeautification program.Inprogress2009 20132013 $3500/month DDA <strong>City</strong>/DDA/LTTA$10,000 pernode<strong>City</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Land Use ProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyUndertake College CorridorMaster <strong>Plan</strong> to target propertiesfor development to encouragethe growth <strong>of</strong> entertainment andcultural activities in the depotarea north <strong>of</strong> the courthousesquare.Undertake College CorridorMaster <strong>Plan</strong> Detailed Design fortransportation and land useimprovements.Create Overlay Districts toimplement character areas andupdate Zoning Ordinance torefine and integrate characterareas into the document.Encourage developers to identifyproperties in the downtown area(and other areas) that have thepotential to be revitalized.Continue to review architecturalplans and site plans forconsistency with the establishedarchitectural guidelines topromote the character areadevelopment.2009 2009$75,000-$100,0002011 2012 $125,0002011 2016 $35,000/year2009 ongoingARC LCIfunds/<strong>City</strong>LCISupplementalStudy Funds<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>2009 ongoing N/A N/AARC/<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong>/ARC<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 27<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
CommunityFacilities andServices ProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyPrepare Master <strong>Plan</strong> forPocket Park systemdevelopment.Continue feasibility studyto clean up former dumpon city property.Undertake cleanup <strong>of</strong>former dump on ClaytonStreet (after relocation <strong>of</strong><strong>City</strong> Utility Departmentstructures).Construct new policeheadquarters facility.Continue placement <strong>of</strong>Quality <strong>of</strong> Life dumpsters insubdivisions to promoteclean ups and todiscourage illegal dumping.2011 20122009 2010Approx.$35,000$2 million(shared costwithcleanup)2010 2012 $2 million2009 2010 $8.5 millionInprogressExpand Recycling program. 2009 2013Continue to extend gassystem as driven by servicedemand.Complete design plans andconstruct improvements foreight additional wells intothe <strong>City</strong>’s system.Design and construct 1.3MGD water treatmentfacility.Acquire location forrelocation <strong>of</strong> UtilityDepartment buildings andfacilities.Construct UtilityDepartment complexFinalize Water ServiceDelivery Contract withGwinnett CountyGeneral Fund<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Grants<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/EPASPLOTS/GeneralFunds 2004-20092013 $50/000/year <strong>City</strong> Funds2009 2013 Cost varies<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>2009 2010 $6 million GEFA/<strong>City</strong> Funds2009 2010Approx $3.7million2009 ongoing $4 millionGEFA/<strong>City</strong> Funds<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>2013 2015 $12 million <strong>City</strong> Funds2009 ongoing Cost varies<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/Gwinnett County<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/GwinnettCounty<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 28<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.3 ShortTerm Work Program continuedNatural andCulturalResourcesProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyDevelop and encouragewater conservationprogram through rebatesfor low-flow plumbingfixtures, etc.Continue to implementstormwater managementplan, include MS4requirements through theStomwater Utility board.Continue to improvestormwater quality throughstructural improvements.Remodel existing historicstructure on Crogan Streetto house Welcome Center.Encourage a centrallylocatedfine arts centerwith gallery spaceAdopt a Tree ProtectionOrdinance2009 ongoing2009 ongoing $50/000/year2009 ongoing $50/000/yearInprogress2010 $100,000StormwaterUtilityStormwaterUtilityGrants/privatefunds/LTTA/DDA<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/StormwaterManagementBoard<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>/StormwaterManagementBoard<strong>City</strong>/LTTA/DDA2010 ongoing N/A N/A Community2009 2010 $15,000<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong>IntergovernmentalCoordinationProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyWork with Gwinnett Countyand other local governmentsto coordinate adjacent landuses and ensure efficientprovision <strong>of</strong> services.2009 ongoing N/A N/A<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 29<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
4.3 ShortTerm Work Program continuedHousing ProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyReview Zoning Ordinanceand design standards toensure that they allow forand encourage a variety <strong>of</strong>housing optionsReview Zoning Ordinance toensure that they allow forflexibility for mixed-useresidential developments inthe downtown and mixeduse character areas.Encourage senior-orientedhousing to be developed in<strong>Lawrenceville</strong>Review Zoning Ordinanceand development regulationsto determine sufficientflexibility exists for seniorfriendlyhousing.Encourage redevelopment <strong>of</strong>aging housing stock tohigher quality standardscompatible with characterareasEncourage developers toincrease quality <strong>of</strong> newhousing through densitybonuses and othertechniquesEncourage mixed usedevelopment to occur inareas where these types <strong>of</strong>activities are in keeping withthe character areasEncourage new constructionto be more “green” in itsmaterials and practicesInvestigate a RevitalizationImprovement Program foraging neighborhoodsInvestigate a method tobalance owner occupiedhousing with rentalproperties2009 ongoing2009 ongoing2009 ongoing2009 20102010 ongoing N/A N/A2010 ongoing N/A N/A2010 ongoing N/A N/A2010 ongoing N/A N/A2009 2011 N/A N/A2009 2011 N/A N/A<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong>/developmentcommunity<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong><strong>Lawrenceville</strong><strong>City</strong>/developmentcommunity<strong>City</strong>/developmentcommunity<strong>City</strong>/developmentcommunity<strong>City</strong>/developmentcommunityTask force by<strong>City</strong>Task force by<strong>City</strong><strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 30<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong> Area/LCI AreaProjectsStartYearYearCompletedCostEstimateFundingSourceResponsiblePartyPlease see the following for a detailed list <strong>of</strong> projects to be implemented in the Downtown Master<strong>Plan</strong>/LCI project area. Any redevelopment efforts in the <strong>City</strong>’s Downtown Master <strong>Plan</strong> Areashould refer directly to the recommendations from the recently completed LCI study.<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 31<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 32<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008
<strong>City</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Lawrenceville</strong> 4 - 33<strong>Comprehensive</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> 2030Adopted VersionCommunity Agenda 6 October 2008