more affordable setting. “When you consider where we’re located, just off of I-20 between Atlanta and Birmingham, we have access to so many things,” Mayor McPherson notes. She points out that although Villa Rica may not have the same level of dining and entertainment options as its larger neighbors, nearby Carrollton offers a growing array of restaurants and attractions. Plus, the short commute to Atlanta—just 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic—means that residents can easily access top-tier medical facilities, cultural events, and the airport without being entrenched in the hustle and bustle of city life. “We’re also probably a 20-minute drive from the Silver Comet Trail,” Mayor McPherson adds.The trail, popular with cyclists and hikers, stretches from the edge of Atlanta into Alabama, offering locals an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, whether biking long distances or simply taking a leisurely walk. For water enthusiasts, kayaking is available just a short drive from Tallapoosa. “Everything is not right here in the city, but where we’re oriented with everything around us is a big advantage for residents,” the mayor says, describing how the surrounding resources make Villa Rica a compelling place to live. In addition to its geographic appeal, Villa Rica has cultivated a reputation for its vibrant local events. One of the most anticipated gatherings is the city’s annual July 3rd celebration. “People come from all over to our July 3rd event,” Mayor McPherson says. The daylong festival features more than just fireworks—bouncy houses, live bands, and local vendors transform the event into a family-friendly experience. “It’s a late afternoon into the late-night event,” she adds, highlighting the sense of community that Villa Rica continues to engender through these celebrations. REVITALIZING DOWNTOWN AND EXPANDING INDUSTRIAL SPACE Villa Rica continues to grow, and attention is increasingly shifting to revitalizing its historic downtown and expanding industrial opportunities. The Interim City Manager, Jeff Reese, shares that the city is working on plans to enhance downtown walkability. 180 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11
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