Sandy Springs Economic Challenges and Opportunities

Sandy Springs is at a pivotal moment in our economic journey. We are home to influential multinational corporations, exciting startups and local and regional businesses that employ thousands of people and drive our economy. Yet it’s the local entrepreneurs and small business owners who operate the stores and restaurants we frequent every day that form the backbone of our community.

As a city councilor and vice chair of the Sandy Springs Development Authority, I am acutely aware of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, including: advancing Phase 2 of our downtown; redevelop outdated and obsolete properties and rejuvenate the north end of Sandy Springs; and address the looming crisis in the commercial office market.

Downtown Phase 2

Long before our downtown was established, I co-founded the Sandy Springs Farmers Market, transforming the dilapidated Target parking lot into a thriving community space. Now in his 15^th The seasonal farmers market, along with other events, concerts and festivals in our downtown, embodies our citizens’ desire for a central hub that supports local businesses and fosters vibrant community engagement.

Even though our downtown is thriving, there is still work to be done. For Phase 2, it is clear to me that our residents want a balance between growth and preserving the character of our community. They want to emphasize connectivity, walkability, green spaces and public art. They want more owner-occupied housing and locally-inspired, “street-scale” stores and restaurants with outdoor dining and social spaces.

And they want it to be safe.

Learning from the experiences of neighboring communities, we must recognize the need for thoughtful planning and monitoring of nightlife to ensure a vibrant, yet safe and family-friendly environment. Simply put, we do NOT want to become another Buckhead.

Rejuvenating Old Properties and Revitalizing the North End of Sandy Springs

Although the City has spent substantial amounts in our downtown district, we must prioritize taxpayer investments across the city. Of particular concern are dilapidated multifamily residential complexes and tired, outdated commercial shopping centers along or near Roswell Road.

The long-neglected north end of Sandy Springs presents an excellent opportunity for investment and revitalization. By directing resources and economic incentives here and involving all stakeholders, we can cultivate a more vibrant community, enriching residents’ lives with diverse amenities and shopping and dining opportunities, all in a safe and welcoming environment.

Commercial Office Market

The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges for our commercial office sector, with vacancy rates skyrocketing and many office buildings facing obsolescence. Yet adversity can be a catalyst for innovation and adaptation. We must view this crisis as an opportunity to collaborate with landowners and all stakeholders in our community to creatively reimagine and reuse these properties to meet the changing needs of the future.

Looking forward

As we embark on these ambitious efforts, our commitment to the quality of life for all who work and live in Sandy Springs must guide our actions. We must aspire to attract a new generation of young people and families who will lead our future by supporting our schools, our workforce and our local businesses. And we must make unwavering efforts to maintain Sandy Springs as an attractive, exciting and safe community for all who call it home.

As we move forward on this journey, transparency, community engagement, accountability and financial responsibility must be paramount. Together, we can shape a future that reflects the best of who we are and everything we aspire to be.