Regional Excellence Awards

This ambitious study reimagines an 11-mile, car-centric corridor into a multimodal, people-focused destination. Developed through a strong partnership between Aerotropolis Atlanta, Clayton County, the Cities of Jonesboro and Lovejoy, and ARC, the plan envisions Tara Boulevard as a safe, welcoming place to live, work, and play – connecting communities and supporting sustainable growth.

This $50 million mixed-income development delivers 170 modern apartments alongside supportive housing for the homeless and transitional units for patients in need of care. Residents benefit from direct access to healthcare, a wide range of on-site amenities, and proximity to MARTA, the BeltLine, and downtown Atlanta.

This former commercial nursery has blossomed into a community hub for sustainable agriculture and education. Home to gardens, an apiary, chicken coop, orchard, greenhouse, and outdoor classroom, Old Rucker Farm is the centerpiece of Alpharetta’s City Agriculture Plan. The farm fosters shared learning and connection, creating a place rooted in sustainability and equity.

This 192-acre redevelopment is transforming a traditional office park into a walkable downtown hub of housing, retail, and green space. Anchored in health, wellness, and innovation, the Town Center is becoming a gathering place for the community – designed with extensive engagement that is already making its vision a reality.

By transforming a former county jail site into a vibrant public space with a new amphitheater, park, and event venue, Douglasville has turned a deterrent into a destination – a shining example of resilience, equity, and downtown renewal.