Snellville city officials took part in a strategic planning retreat recently to discuss progress and next steps to create a walkable and livable Towne Center, something the city has been working toward for nearly a decade.

“We are soon going to be making some critical decisions,” said City Manager Butch Sanders. “And this planning effort will keep all partners, the Downtown Development Authority, the Development Authority and Mayor and Council, moving forward together.”

In the upcoming months, city officials will meet with developers and lenders to determine a financial strategy for the project, including finalizing a budget and identifying necessary funding sources. Project leaders will also create a strategic plan to secure available funding and address transportation issues. There is also a plan to have another in a series of town hall meetings early next year spotlighting the activities of the DDA as they reach out to business owners in the Towne Center area.

The city will also unveil a new social media and website strategy to keep residents informed about the plan’s progress.