Alpharetta, GA – Alpharetta’s vibrant new heart, the Alpharetta City Center, is officially open, marking a significant milestone in the city’s revitalization efforts. The grand opening of the new Alpharetta City Hall on December 15th served as a symbolic launch for this ambitious 26-acre mixed-use development, a project envisioned to transform the city’s historic downtown into a thriving, pedestrian-friendly hub.
The City Center’s carefully considered design, rooted in a comprehensive Downtown Master Plan, is a testament to the dedication of numerous individuals and entities who brought this vision to life. Key to this early stage was the work of Brian Patton, a land planner whose conceptual designs were crucial in shaping the project’s foundational ideas. Patton, who has a background in urban planning and development consulting, played a significant role in developing the conceptual master plan and the Request for Proposal (RFP) development documents for the City Center project. His expertise was vital in identifying the developers who would partner with the city to make the project a reality.
The City Center’s design philosophy, aimed at creating a distinct and inviting atmosphere, is already evident. The project, designed by acclaimed firms like Smallwood, Reynolds, Stewart, Stewart, & Associates and David M. Schwarz, seamlessly integrates a blend of architectural styles, incorporating elements like the historic Jones House. The development emphasizes connectivity, with a focus on sidewalks and pedestrian pathways that encourage walking to shops and restaurants.
The City Center is a truly mixed-use environment, encompassing more than just the new City Hall. It’s home to a Fulton County library branch, a diverse array of retailers and restaurants, office spaces, and residential options, all interwoven with a network of green spaces, including a five-acre park and a central Town Green. This commitment to creating a “sense of place,” where historic elements blend with modern amenities, has garnered recognition, earning the City Center the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Development of Excellence Award for Context-Sensitive Town Center design.
As retailers and residents continue to settle into their new spaces within the City Center, Alpharetta is poised for a new era of downtown vitality. The City Center is not just a collection of buildings; it’s a carefully planned and executed vision for a thriving community hub that will serve Alpharetta for years to come. The successful realization of this project underscores the value of strategic planning, thoughtful design, and the collaborative efforts of the various development partners who helped turn concept into reality.
Brian Patton, CCIM, is a commercial real estate broker, land specialist, and investment property expert with over 30 years of experience. A former zoning official and city planner, Brian has helped thousands of landowners and investors navigate the complexities of development, permitting, and investment analysis. He is the author of Mailbox Moo-la and Land Moo-la, both practical guides for generating income and maximizing land value. Brian has taught real estate courses, lectured at the University of Alabama, and hosted real estate radio shows and podcasts. He lives in Georgia, where he remains active in his community and local church.
Land Use Experts. Development Advisors. Problem Solvers.
