Fame is an ode to this unique heritage, celebrating the county’s colorful past. EXPANDING ECONOMIC HORIZONS Despite its rural charm, Dawson County is actively enhancing its economic landscape. Though not officially designated as Main Street U.S.A., the historic downtown area of Dawsonville is a focal point for development. Kevin Herrit, Director of Economic Development, outlines the ongoing projects aimed at revitalizing this area. “We have a historic downtown with its own district,” he says. “The city recently purchased 17plus acres adjacent to the current downtown area.” This acquisition is part of a broader master plan to integrate the new land with existing civic amenities, such as City Hall and a large downtown park. Herrit notes,“They’re working to expand things and create different opportunities that don’t currently exist in the historic district.” Dawson County’s commercial and industrial activities are concentrated outside the downtown area along the 400 corridor. Herrit explains, “In our comprehensive plan, we’ve designated a section of our county to remain agricultural.” This strategy prevents infrastructure development in certain areas, preserving the county’s rural essence while steering growth towards designated commercial zones. Tourism remains a significant economic driver, but the county is diversifying its industrial base. The Blue Ridge Connector is a pivotal development in this direction, an intermodal facility by the Georgia Port Authority in Gainesville. The new facility offers Dawson County a competitive edge, potentially attracting new industries and bolstering existing ones. Herrit points to a recent success with BTD, a custom metal fabrication manufacturer. “They’re doing a 163,000 square foot expansion, a $32 million investment,” he says. INFRASTRUCTURE AND HOUSING: BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Dawson County’s rapid growth necessitates significant infrastructure improvements to support its expanding population and economic ambitions. County Manager Leverette discusses recent and upcoming projects critical to the county’s development strategy. “The county has been very fortunate,” he remarks, referring to the recent Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or T-SPLOST.“It’s a five-year funding mechanism that will generate about $68 million dedicated to roadway improvements.” This 106 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09
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