Snellville unveils plans for Towne Center area

Snellville residents gathered Wednesday to hear operational plans for the state’s Highway 78/124 intersection project and about a library and city market proposal for the Towne Center.

While residents expressed concern about right of way issues, city officials made clear it is the state, not the city, which is responsible for all property acquisition and construction of the planned Divergent Left Turn intersection. Scott Shelton of Gresham, Smith and Partners, the lead engineer for the project, said actual construction is slated to begin next summer and could take two years to complete.

City leaders also announced their desire to move the Elizabeth H. Williams Library to a new facility in the city’s planned Towne Center on Wisteria Drive. Funding would come from the county’s 2017 Special Local Option Sales Tax renewal if it is passed.

The city’s vision also includes a connected City Market that would be home to retail market space, restaurants, bistros, outside dining and pedestrian space and patterned after ultra-successful market developments such as Krog Street Market and Sweet Auburn Curb Market.

Information: www.snellville.org.

Video: Snellville Towne Center