Sandy Springs took another step toward creating a new downtown Monday when it began demolishing an old department store.
The former Target store off Roswell Road is at the heart of Sandy Springs’ proposed city center, which would include a mix of office, retail and residential development, plus a new City Hall and other features.
City Communications Director Sharon Kraun said the demolition is expected to take up to six weeks.
The demolition is the latest milestone for Sandy Springs, a north Fulton County city of nearly 100,000 people. City residents fought for decades to incorporate so they could control zoning and quality of life in the community.
Since winning that battle and incorporating eight years ago, Sandy Springs has fought to create a distinct identity out of its mix of expensive homes, apartments, office parks and strip malls. Supporters say the $100 million plan to redevelop Roswell Road and create a new downtown will be a key element of Sandy Springs’ identity.
The plan would create a walkable city center complete with commercial, retail, recreational and cultural facilities. The city has spent millions of dollars in recent years to buy property for the project, including $8 million for the former Target.
Kraun said there is no specific timetable to finish the project. She said Sandy Springs is still in the process of choosing a master developer to help with the city center.
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