Even longtime residents consider Duluth an "up-and-coming" area.

They point to the improvements downtown that have created a central meeting spot for some residents, as well as new shopping centers that line the busy roadways and offer interesting restaurants and stores.

T. LEVETTE BAGWELL (ENLARGE)
The fountain in downtown Duluth is a favorite summer recreation area for children.
NICK ARROYO/AJC STAFF (ENLARGE)
The historical Payne-Corley House (above and below), located at Brock Road and Main Street, dates to the 1870s and is now a popular special-events facility.
NICK ARROYO/AJC STAFF (ENLARGE)
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"I like the fact that it's up and coming," said Krista Ganley, who grew up in Duluth and now operates a special-events facility in a historical home. "Duluth has really focused on its downtown core and is really trying to create that city center kind of feeling."

As Gwinnett's second-largest city with more than 22,000 residents, Duluth's boundaries extend to I-85 and the Fulton County line, and it's one of Gwinnett's busiest commercial corridors. The town was named after Duluth, Minn., when Congress decided in the 1870s to build a railway system from the Georgia town (which then was named Howell Crossing) to the Minnesota town.

What's old?

The Payne-Corley House, located at Brock Road and Main Street, dates to the 1870s. The columned house is now a special-events facility that hosts weddings, holiday parties and other occasions. "When people think of a Southern home, I think we fit really well into what they're expecting," Ganley said. For a peek inside, visit www.paynecorleyhouse .com.

What's new?

Lofts and townhomes have helped revitalize the downtown area. Dan Woodley Communities is building Towne Park Place, a mixed-use development with lofts and townhomes from the $130,000s to $650,000s. Spohntown Corp. has completed loft apartments and retail shops adjacent to the Town Green.

What's a must-attend event?

Anything held on the Town Green in downtown Duluth, such as the summer concerts, Flicks on the Bricks family-friendly movies and other festivals. For what's happening, visit www.duluth-ga.com.

What's the best-kept secret?

1980 Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers is a native of Duluth and attended Duluth High School.

He was awarded the trophy at the University of South Carolina, was selected by New Orleans as the first overall pick in the 1981 NFL draft and had four productive seasons with the Saints. He finished his career with the Washington Redskins, winning the Super Bowl in 1987.

What are people talking about?

Traffic. Real estate agent Fran Harlan says Duluth's rush hour has expanded like the rest of Atlanta, and although the new construction is a plus, it has caused headaches.

Duluth includes a few of the busiest roadways in Gwinnett — Buford Highway, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Ga. 120 and Pleasant Hill Road.