‘Phipps Plaza North’ could get OK in Forsyth

Retail shopping center developer Taubman Centers Inc. could clear one of the last major hurdles Tuesday in its push to build what some are calling “Phipps Plaza North” in Forsyth County.

The Forsyth County Commission has made a last-minute change to Tuesday’s work session agenda to take up a long-discussed development agreement.

The agreement is to spell out the financial commitments of both the county and Taubman.

It is also expected to include some deadlines for the company to carry out its elaborate plans for a massive mixed-use development at Ga. 400 and McFarland Road.

The development is to include hotels, Class A office space, high-end housing and a mall anchored by at least two upscale department stores, such as Nordstrom or Neiman Marcus.

In April, the commission approved a zoning overlay district specifically drawn for the project.

In August, the commissioners awarded a contract to extend Ronald Reagan Boulevard by 1.7 miles, a project that’s critical to Taubman’s plans.

The development is expected to have a potential $1 billion economic impact on this bedroom community, which earlier this year was ranked the nation’s 13th-wealthiest county.

The commission meeting is set for 2 p.m. Tuesday at the county administration building in Cumming.