Expansive Multi-Use Development Proposed In South Forsyth

CUMMING, GA — A mixed-use development that includes a 1.6 million-square-foot commercial and retail space and a 750,000-square-foot arena is being proposed in Forsyth County, county officials said in a news release this week.

Plans for The Gathering at South Forsyth also include a community center spanning 100,000 square feet, a fire station spanning 7,500 square feet, 450 hotel rooms with meeting spaces and residential units.

The development team for The Gathering will introduce the project at the April 25 Forsyth County Commission work session, during which a request for an overlay district will be filed, county officials said. Public engagement listening sessions will be scheduled for May.

The 100-acre land The Gathering will sit on is currently owned by Vernon Krause, chief executive officer of Krause Auto Group and longtime North Georgia resident. County officials said the proposed site is in the area of Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Union Hill Road along GA-400.

“The community of South Forsyth holds great meaning for me," Krause said in the release.

"As a global entertainment hub, The Gathering at South Forsyth will provide residents, employers and visitors with the ability to see their favorite musician, experience a family-friendly ice show or eat at a James Beard-awarded restaurant without having to sit in their car for hours. The development will include the best in advanced technology, sustainability, walkability and connectivity – all within a comfortable and accessible setting."

Officials said the proposed site was initially zoned for a regional mall at least 15 years ago, but plans never came to fruition and the land sat empty.

Forsyth County Commissioner Laura Semanson said in the release traffic in the area will be mitigated due to new transportation improvements, including the extension of Ronald Reagan Boulevard, the widening of McGinnis Ferry Road and the new McGinnis Ferry interchange at GA-400.