over the last two decades, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. With water and sewer capacity now posing a limiting factor, the city’s focus has shifted from accelerating new residential approvals to catching up and strengthening the infrastructure needed to support what has already been built. In other words, Villa Rica sees itself as having done its share of regional growth and is now prioritizing stabilization, service capacity, and sustainable pacing. On the economic development front beyond downtown, the city has continued to see commercial activity and business investment. Leadership pointed to major additions and expansions, including a significant trucking-related facility near I-20 that was described as a high-end destination for truck sales and repairs, reflecting Villa Rica’s strategic location and accessibility along a major transportation corridor. The city has also seen local production strength reflected in notable bakery operations, including Turano Baking Co, and the presence of multiple significant bakeries whose products reach far beyond local shelves. Leaders also emphasized that expansions among existing employers are often as meaningful as new recruitment, signaling that businesses already in the city are healthy enough to grow and reinvest. Looking ahead through 2026 and into the first half of 2027, Villa Rica’s priorities center on continuing the work already underway. Streamlining business processes and improving communication with business owners will remain a key focus as the March rollout of outreach initiatives takes effect. Downtown improvements will continue to advance through the streetscape engineering and coordination process, with the goal of creating a more walkable, connected, and vibrant downtown environment. Community development priorities are also prominent. Recreational investments are moving forward, including the addition of new pickleball courts as tennis courts are refurbished, reflecting changing demand and the city’s intention to keep amenities aligned with resident interest. At the same time, the city is working with a group of veterans to develop a dedicated Veterans Memorial Park, a project that would fill a meaningful gap in local civic recognition and provide a more comprehensive space to honor service members and the wars in which they served. Notably, this park is envisioned for the downtown area, reinforcing Villa Rica’s goal of connecting revitalization with community identity. Villa Rica is also preparing to recognize a significant milestone year, marking the city’s 200th anniversary 54 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02
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