After three public hearings and months of work and review, the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners adopted the Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) Plan during their meeting on Thursday, April 13.

LCI - WHAT IS IT?

This initiative assumes that linking land-use planning with greater transportation options makes for more "livable" communities. Better design can also help achieve walkable and livable communities. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) awards millions of dollars in sidewalk and bike path funds to communities making progress in achieving Livable Centers; Forsyth will pursue those monies.

A Core Committee of residents, business owners and government officials oversaw the LCI study. The LCI was funded by an 80%-20% match-grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and administered through the ARC.

WHAT'S NEXT?

The next step in the process is implementation of the plan. In the coming months, visit the Planning Departments Web site at www.forsythco.com to review proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, elements of a business strategy for the area and drafts of an Overlay District for the area addressing design and incentives for mixed-use development around the McFarland area.

"We're very excited about the McFarland-Stoney Point LCI, but the hard work is still ahead," said Senior Planner Michelle Beesten. "Planning, Engineering and County Administration will work together to implement the various elements of the plan."

THE PROCESS

A consultant team of transportation, design, land-use and market experts conducted the study, engaging the community in the planning process via interviews and public meetings. The consulting team was led by the engineering and architecture firm Pond & Company. The study findings will inform continued planning efforts in this sub-area of the county. To ensure success, the Planning Department will continue to rely upon public input throughout implementation.

Forsyth County Planning congratulates the community members who participated in the creation of the plan and thanks all those who gave of their time to speak at the three public hearings held to consider adopting the plan - both those with constructive criticism and those in full support of it - so that the Board of Commissioners could address remaining concerns, stated Beesten.

Please see the ARC Web site at www.atlantaregional.com to learn about LCI successes around the region and explore citizen planning resources. If you have any comments or questions, please contact LCI Project Manager Michelle Beesten at mmbeesten@forsythco.com.