Economic Development - Cobb Chamber of Commerce

ECONOMIC
2016
COBB
COUNTY,
GEORGIA
The Home
Depot’s new
four-building
Technology
Center has
catalyzed
redevelopment
on Marietta’s
Franklin Road
corridor.
Pictured:
Daniel
Grider, the
company’s VP
of Information
Technology
SelectCobb.com
DEVELOPMENT
THE
HOME
DEPOT
BUILDING
A FUTURE
IN COBB
GREAT DOCTORS DON’T WORK ALONE.
THEY NEED GREAT NURSES AND STAFF.
In Atlanta and throughout Georgia, Northside Hospital provides high quality
health care. It begins with our medical and administrative leadership – known
for accountability and acknowledged for perennial success. Our employees,
volunteers and caregivers are connected, regardless of where they are or what
they do. When our patients and families need one, we give them everyone.
Because at Northside Hospital, our great doctors have great teams.
A Lifetime of Care
Northside.com
Powering economic development since 1938.
Cobb EMC serves some of the area’s largest and leading companies. Our 99.99
percent reliability rating helps assure our members that they can count on us, rain or
shine. We are available 24/7 to provide your business with personalized and reliable
support. Our team understands that collaborating with businesses small and large
will allow the community to continue to thrive.
Let us help your business run smoothly and grow. Call us today at 678-355-3435
and let’s talk about tomorrow.
That’s the power of membership.
cobbemc.com
BRINGING YOU THE
POWER OF ENERGY
ADVER T I SE R
I N DEX
Brasfield & Gorrie . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
CDH Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Chattahoochee Technical College . . . 18
Children's Healthcare
of Atlanta . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover
Childress Klein Properties . . . . . . . . 15
City of Acworth . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
City of Kennesaw . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
City of Marietta . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
City of Powder Springs . . . . . . . . . 25
City of Smyrna . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cobb Chamber of Commerce . .
21
26, 36
Cobb County Community
Services Board . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Cobb County Government . . . . . . . 13
Cobb County Water System . . . . . . 35
Cobb EMC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Community & Southern Bank . . . . .
11
Delta Community Credit Union . . . . 29
Devereux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
First Landmark Bank . . . . . . . . . . 27
Georgia Power . . . . . . . . . . .
8, 40
Gas South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Kennesaw State University .
Back Cover
Marietta Power & Water . . . . . . . .
39
MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service . . . 37
Mobilized Fuels . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Northside Hospital .
24
CO N T EN TS
4The Site of Choice:
Cobb County
6
Business & Industry
10 Site Selection
24 The Cobb Life
30A Global Gateway
32Redevelopment
Opportunities
Inside Front Cover
Red Hare Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . .
23
The Georgian Club . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Town Center CID . . . . . . . . . . . .
33
WellStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
YKK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
38 Cobb County
Area Map
16Education &
Workforce
Development
20Economic
Development
Professionals
260 Peachtree Street
Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-527-5500
atlantamagazine.com
P UBLI SHER
S E N I O R E D I TO R
Sean McGinnis
Elizabeth Florio
EDITOR I A L D I R EC TOR
A R T D I R E C TO R
Kevin Benefield
Mark Ziemer
DIREC TOR OF SA L ES
P R O DU C TI O N MA N AG E R
Clint Smith
Whitney Tomasino
DESIGN D I R EC TOR
COV E R P H OTO G R A P H Y
Cristina Villa Hazar
Harold Daniels
This guide was published in cooperation with the Cobb
Chamber of Commerce by Atlanta Magazine Custom
Media. All contents ©2016. All rights reserved.
2 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
16
30
Cover, Roam: Harold Daniels; Vonage: Daemon Baizan
PUBLISHED BY
WellStar and Mayo Clinic.
Working together. Working for you.
Achieving our vision of world-class healthcare is even closer
now that we are a proud new member of the Mayo Clinic Care
Network, an innovative collaboration which brings the expertise
of Mayo to our patients. As the first and only member of the
Mayo Clinic Care Network in metro Atlanta, our depth of specialty
care will be enhanced with new resources and tools while keeping
patient care right here at home.
Innovation. World-class care. WellStar.
For more information, please visit wellstar.org/mayo.
For physician referral, please call 770-956-STAR (7827).
The vision of WellStar Health System is to deliver world-class healthcare through our hospitals, physicians and services. Our not-for-profit
health system includes WellStar Kennestone Regional Medical Center (anchored by WellStar Kennestone Hospital) and WellStar Cobb,
Douglas, Paulding and Windy Hill hospitals; WellStar Medical Group; Urgent Care Centers; Health Parks; Pediatric Center; Health Place;
Homecare; Hospice; Atherton Place; Paulding Nursing and Rehabilitation Center; and the WellStar Foundation.
We believe in life well-lived.
Suntrust Park,
future home of the
Atlanta Braves
The Site of Choice:
COBB COUNTY
T
here’s a new energy in Cobb County. It’s a way of
life and doing business that’s attracting the nation’s
best-known brands, passionate entrepreneurs and
professionals eager to live out their version of the American
dream. Discover the county’s unparalleled assets—a talented
and skilled workforce, charming neighborhoods, high-performing schools, breathtaking recreational offerings and cultural
attractions, a thriving dining scene and the lowest tax rates in
the metro area. The Home Depot, GE Energy, Genuine Parts
Company, The Weather Company and now the Atlanta Braves
all call Cobb home because it’s the site of choice to locate and
grow their companies.
The nation’s top publications consistently bestow quality-oflife accolades on Cobb, thanks to a unique blend of economic
development assets that offers businesses and residents the best
of both worlds. Access to downtown Atlanta and the world’s
busiest airport is quick and easy. Factor in a low cost of living,
a fiscally sound, pro-business government and some of the na4 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
tion’s top K–12 and higher education institutions, and it’s easy
to see why industries find Cobb so attractive.
These assets, combined with an aggressive focus on economic
development by the Cobb Chamber and its community-wide
partners, have led to the creation and retention of nearly 5,225
jobs and an estimated $313 million in new investments in the
county in 2015.
“Cobb’s low cost of doing business and transportation
infrastructure make the county an attractive site for corporate
expansions,” says Brooks Mathis, senior vice president of economic development at the Cobb Chamber. “Cobb can support
companies focused on manufacturing and logistics, all the way
to life sciences and headquarters operations.”
In addition, Cobb County boasts a highly educated adult
population; according to the U.S. Census, Cobb is the most
educated county in Georgia and ranks 12th in the country.
Cobb County Public Schools and Marietta City Schools are
two of the state’s top-performing districts. Cobb students boast
COBB COUNTY DEMOGRAPHICS
Population (2014 Estimate)
721,050
Population (2010 Census)
688,078
Source: Nielson Claritas, U.S. Census Bureau
higher graduation rates and enviable scores on end-of-course
and national standardized tests. Cobb County is home to the
third-largest university in Georgia, Kennesaw State University,
and the state’s largest technical college, Chattahoochee Technical College. You’ll also find several other higher education institutions, including Life University, Georgia Highlands College
and Lincoln College of Technology.
Global leaders in technology and innovation are located
nearby, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology,
Georgia State University, Morehouse School of Medicine and
the University of Georgia.
Cobb County offers a tremendous advantage to businesses
facing the impending shortage of workers as baby boomers
approach retirement. The county’s relatively young population will continue to produce a highly sustainable workforce for
decades to come. As of the 2010 U.S. Census, 36.5 percent of
Cobb’s population was between the ages of 25 and 44, creating
a valuable, long-term pipeline of youthful talent.
POPULATION STATS
Cobb County exceeds 717,000 people and boasts a growth rate
nearly double that of the nation. Over the past 10 years, the
county grew steadily, with an overall population growth of 13.2
percent from 2000 to 2010. Based on current trends, Cobb’s
population is expected to increase to nearly 764,000 by 2030.
A large portion of the county’s population growth stems from
the in-migration of highly educated workers from around the
Cobb County consistently
wins accolades for its
unique blend of economic
development assets, offering
businesses and residents
the best of both worlds.
state, country and world. Twelve percent moved from another
county to Cobb, 19 percent from another state, and 5 percent
from abroad. The top states for in-migration are California,
Florida, Michigan and New York.
Metro Atlanta’s 2010 population exceeded 5.6 million in
the 28-county region, with roughly 12 percent of that population located in Cobb. Between 2000 and 2010, metro Atlanta’s
population growth (27 percent) was nearly double the national growth rate, which gave it a spot as the seventh largest
city in the nation.
INCOME
Metro Atlanta draws its strength from a robust local economy, a large portion of which comes from Cobb County.
The county’s median household income was $65,180 in
November 2015, higher than the national median income
of $51,939.
Cobb County’s per capita income was $33,110 in
2010, higher than the state ($25,134) and national figure
($27,334). Between 2004 and 2009, Cobb County experienced income growth of 9.5 percent.
The county’s high household incomes—well above state
and national averages—may be attributed to a number of
factors, including a highly skilled and educated workforce,
the presence of specialized industries and a high concentration of dual-earner households.
AGE
Cobb County boasts a healthy population of young professionals, with a projected 28.72 percent of its population
between the ages
of 25 and 44 in
PERCENTAGE OF
AGE
POPULATION
2014—larger than
the 26.92 percent
18 and under
28.84%
between the ages
20–24
5.20%
of 45 and 64.
25–34
13.75%
While other communities struggle
35–44
14.97%
with securing
45–54
15.07%
young talent, Cobb
55-65
11.85%
County and metro
66 and over
10.32%
Atlanta offer one
Source: Nielson Claritas
of the nation’s
most robust and
long-term pipelines of the highly valued “young and restless” workforce for the county’s companies in years ahead.
ETHNICITY
A diverse population in Cobb County creates an appealing
community in which to live and work, and that sense of
diversity expands into top leadership positions. Non-white
minorities represent 39.31 percent of the total population,
with a forecast for continued growth. African Americans
are the second largest racial group in the county behind
Caucasians, accounting for 25.51 percent of the population. Hispanic residents make up 13.28 percent of the
county’s population. All of the county’s minority racial
and ethnic groups experienced considerable growth,
indicating that Cobb is becoming even more diverse. Cobb
County is also the community of choice for highly skilled
and educated international workers and their families.
Since 2004, 29 percent of all population growth has
stemmed from international migration.
selectcobb.com | 5
Novelis Global Research
& Technology Center
C
obb County’s diverse and robust business community is equipped with tremendous infrastructure,
accessibility, low taxes and the best-regarded educational system in Georgia, so it’s no surprise many of America’s
top brands call Cobb home.
Companies such as Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Genuine
Parts Corporation, RaceTrac, The Home Depot, The Weather
Company and GE Energy can attest to the fact that Cobb
County provides a skilled workforce across a variety of industries.
Diversity is crucial; focusing on Cobb’s strengths allows our
community to provide the best practices to support our target
industries. Our team has devoted significant time and resources
to developing strategic industries: Aerospace & Advanced
Equipment Manufacturing, Business & Professional Services,
IT & Software Development and Supply Chain & Logistics.
Most recently, Atlanta United, the city’s Major League Soccer club, announced its plans to build a training complex and
headquarters in the Franklin Road Corridor in Marietta. The
project represents more than $50 million in new investment
6 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
by Atlanta United in the area and approximately 80 highpaying jobs by 2017.
The site will include six soccer fields and will serve as the
headquarters for Atlanta United players and staff. The football club considers the project to be a flagship development
for soccer in the Southeast. The facility is a catalytic economic
development project announcement for Franklin Road.
“We are very pleased to have found a home in the City of
Marietta for our training complex, which further enhances
the great support we’ve already received from the soccer
community in Cobb County,” said Atlanta United president
Darren Eales. “We look forward to not only developing a
world-class training facility, but also to engaging with the
community and contributing to the revitalization of the
Franklin Road Corridor.”
Other recent expansion and relocation announcements
include Aaron’s Inc., Greenway Health, Synovus Financial
Corp and Comcast—all choosing to plant their roots
in Cobb.
Novelis: Daemon Baizan
BUSINESS & INDUSTRY
WE’RE ON TARGET
Cobb County has identified seven strategic economic development targets. We understand that there are competitive
advantages for companies when an area supports various
industries. The county has set its sights on the following Core
Cluster Targets:
Aerospace and Advanced Equipment
Manufacturing
Georgia is home to more than 500 firms that perform all
facets of aerospace: original equipment manufacturers; maintenance, repair and overhaul companies; and global aircraft
fleet operations. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company is
located in Cobb County.
Information Technology and Software
Georgia and Cobb County excel in key information technology
sub-sectors, including digital media, health care and financial
services technology. Cobb County’s young and highly educated
population has produced a sustainable and capable workforce
in the information technology and software industries.
Professional and Business Services
This target represents an array of establishments that are
strongly concentrated in Cobb County and provide high-wage
job opportunities. Within this industry sector, Cobb offers companies close proximity to corporate headquarters throughout
metro Atlanta, which represents large account opportunities.
Wholesale Trade
Proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
and Georgia’s high-volume ports, strong interstate networks
and low land costs make the county’s interest in the wholesale
trade industry a no-brainer. Some of Cobb’s largest wholesale trade employers include Subaru of America, Heidelberg
USA, Yamaha and OfficeMax.
Vonage Business
Solutions
Georgia and Cobb County excel
in key information technology
sub-sectors, including digital
media, healthcare and financial
services technology.
The county has also identified growth opportunities in the
following industries:
Healthcare Services
A rising demand for healthcare services by Cobb’s aging population has created opportunity for growth in this sector. Cobb
County is home to the state’s largest non-academic, nonprofit
health system, WellStar Health System. Kaiser Permanente of
Georgia has recently expanded its footprint within the county.
Travel and Tourism
Six Flags Over Georgia, Kennesaw Mountain National
Battlefield Park, the Cobb Galleria Centre and the Cobb
Energy Performing Arts Centre all serve as travel and tourism
anchors for the county. This industry packs a punch, with
an economic impact of $2.5 billion, employing more than
30,000 people.
Biosciences
Vonage: Daemon Baizan
Georgia is home to more than 300 biosciences companies,
making the state a global player in the industry. Six research
universities support Georgia’s biosciences field, which translates
to the nation’s highest growth in the market share of collegeeducated 25- to 34-year-olds. Cobb County is home to international biosciences companies Osmotica Pharmaceuticals,
Quintiles Transnational Corporation and UCB Pharma, Inc.
A MIX OF INDUSTRIES FOR A
GROWING ECONOMY
Cobb Energy
Performing
Arts Centre
From energy to aerospace, biosciences to information technology software and financial services, Cobb County offers a
diversified economy of viable industries and the state’s most
highly educated workforce.
selectcobb.com | 7
Outdoor Lighting
from Georgia Power
Design, installation and maintenance
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Call 1-888-768-8458 for a free lighting
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outdoorlighting.georgiapower.com
Georgia’s business
tax climate is
more competitive
than other
Southeastern
states, including
North Carolina
and Texas. Cobb
is one of a handful
of counties in the
U.S. with a AAA
bond rating by all
three credit rating
agencies.
Aviation
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McCollum Field is a major general
aviation reliever airport for HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport.
The Cobb County airport features
the longest general aviation runway in
the metro Atlanta area and is only 20
miles northwest of downtown Atlanta.
McCollum features customs and border
protection, allowing direct international
flights into the county.
Information Technology &
Software Development
One example of growth in this sector is
The Home Depot’s Marietta Technology Center. The world’s largest
home improvement retailer opened a
200,000-square-foot office complex in
Marietta for approximately 1,000 IT associates, with the expectation of adding
500 IT jobs in the future. Since 2007,
The Home Depot has aggressively enhanced its IT capabilities in conjunction
with its supply chain and merchandising
transformations.
Financial Services
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8 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
Cobb County is home to an array of
financial institutions, including accounting firms, financial planners, mortgage
companies, banks and credit unions.
The state of Georgia’s insurance industry contributes more than $7.4 billion to
its annual Gross State Product.
Come for the OPPORTUNITY.
Stay for the SUCCESS.
Marietta is a place where small businesses open,
grow and operate for decades. Beyond these
entrepreneurs, the city supports large production
facilities, national corporations and global
enterprises in the successful pharmaceutical,
food and aeronautics industries.
The city and its residents are dedicated to
growing the local economy even further. Voters
have approved government bonds and special
sales taxes to clear out blighted properties and
improve infrastructure. The opportunity to develop
projects on prime real estate is ripe for industrial
or corporate success.
GET INVESTED.
Contact Marietta’s economic development team.
770-794-5717
www.mariettaga.gov
JE Dunn Construction
SITE SELECTION
“Our move to Cobb’s Wildwood Towers was driven by our
desire to offer our employees a great facility and expanded
amenities. We believe this move will help us retain and attract employees from the Atlanta area, which has a highly
talented labor pool, particularly in the tech industry.”
—Wain Kellum, President of Vonage Business Solutions
10 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
“We located and purchased a building in Cobb that offers
excellent utility, adaptability and visibility. The planning
and growth dynamics of Cumberland were especially
attractive. Also, 40 percent of our employees are Cobb residents. Altogether, Cobb significantly bolsters our ability to
offer employees a vibrant, progressive work environment.”
—Dan Kaufman, President, JE Dunn Construction
“Cobb is a dynamic community where residents and businesses thrive. We have a positive business climate and a variety of arts, recreation and cultural offerings for all ages. It is
definitely a community you will want to call home.” —Dana
Johnson, Deputy Director of Community Development, Cobb County
“The Cobb Chamber displayed enthusiasm to work with us
and understands our requirements to establish a presence
within Atlanta. They not only supported the supply side of
our business but also augmented the topline, consequently
providing a complete 360-degree support in establishing our
bedrock in Atlanta. The willingness of the Cobb Chamber
and its leadership team to help [a company] be successful is
Harold Daniels
S
electing a home for your business is extremely
important. The decision must be based on facts,
community support and an established infrastructure for the future. Cobb County’s strategic focus on
economic development not only sets the community apart,
but also makes it particularly competitive for companies
looking to relocate or expand their businesses.
Since its launch, the Cobb Economic Development
team has worked with companies to help them relocate or
expand their business within the county. Today, the county
has welcomed thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars
in new private investment, and construction equipment dots
the landscape. Here are a few testimonials from our most
recent projects and community partners:
800.901.8075 • myCSBonline.com
In an industry that too often values transactions over people,
fees over the growth of the client; the team members of
CSB believe there’s a better way.
Giving businesses access to capital creates growth, it creates
jobs and stronger, more dynamic communities. And that’s
what inspires us at CSB. Seeing our clients succeed. We are
excited you have chosen Cobb County and welcome the
opportunity to demonstrate the difference Community &
Southern can make in helping you succeed.
&
Leslie Hammond
Market Leader
David Johnson
Relationship Manager
CSB NMLS #409010
Member FDIC
[email protected] • [email protected]
Talenti Gelato
the support any business needs to dock their vessel in a wellestablished county.” —Madhu Menon, Head, Influencer Relations
& Onshore Sales, North America/Infosys BPO Ltd.
“The Cobb Economic Development team has been a valuable
partner in assisting The Home Depot to successfully expand
our local corporate presence. Cobb County provides a strong
workforce as well as a very attractive place to live for our employees.” —Mike LaFerle, Vice President, Real Estate, The Home Depot
“As we established our high-tech center in spring 2012, the
Chamber and leadership were both welcoming in their endeavors to ensure a successful start-up in the community. The group
assisted in our relocation efforts and incentives. In our first
two years operating in Cobb County, the Chamber has been
a unique source of local business knowledge and networking
opportunities and [has been] highly supportive in our recruitment drives to fill high-tech roles. The EDGE initiative and the
International Commerce group have brought a focus and an
opportunity to expand the Cobb offering for current and future
companies with an overseas interest.” —Graeme Marshall, Ph.D.,
Director, Global R&T Center, Novelis
A few statistics that speak to Cobb’s appeal for company
site selection:
• Cobb County is less than 20 miles from Hartsfield-Jackson
Atlanta International Airport, the world’s most connected
and traveled airport. If you travel and your market is
global, why would you be anywhere else?
12 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
• Strength in numbers. Cobb County is the home to the
world headquarters for these Fortune 500 giants: The
Home Depot, GE Energy and Genuine Parts. They join
10 others in metro Atlanta.
• Cobb County boasts the lowest taxes in metro Atlanta
and some of the lowest in the southeastern United States.
Affordable business costs and costs of living mean more
revenue reinvested in your company.
• Cobb County is one of the most educated counties in the
country, with nearly half our workforce holding a bachelor’s
degree or higher. That means access to a young, educated
and highly skilled workforce.
COMPETITIVE INCENTIVES FOR COMPANIES
Choosing Cobb for your business comes with a long list of
perks. Businesses can access tax credits, sales, use of property
tax exemptions and workforce training programs. Low taxes
and business costs foster Cobb’s progressive business climate.
The state of Georgia and local governments in metro
Atlanta, including Cobb County and its development authorities, provide incentives that focus on job creation, employee
training, tax rebates, expedited permitting and licensing and
infrastructure improvements.
The state of Georgia provides performance-based incentive
payments to qualifying companies that have created new jobs
paying above-average wages and also offers customized training
grants. In addition, Cobb County offers Enterprise Zones and
Redevelopment Sites to incentivize businesses that expand or
locate in designated economically distressed areas of the county.
A number of incentives exist for companies relocating in
Cobb County:
• No site or structural review fees
• No development impact fees for transportation, parks,
public safety and libraries
Daemon Baizan
Cobb County boasts a highly
sustainable workforce that
includes a large pipeline of
young professionals.
• No water system development fee
• Financing at zero-interest rate of the System Development Fee over a three- to five-year period
• Business license fees can be capped at $1,000 a year for
the first three years.
• Building permit fees, which are based on $6 per $1,000
construction cost, can be waived for amounts over
$5,000.
• Freeport inventory tax exemption, which exempts
qualifying inventories 100 percent from property tax. All
inventories of manufacturers are exempt, and products
from outside Georgia temporarily stored in the state
but shipped to destinations out of state are also exempt.
This exemption must be applied for by April 1 of each
calendar year.
• Development Authority leasehold agreements, which can
include project-specific tax structure
• Enterprise Zones allow a 10-year property tax abatement
for qualifying businesses agreeing to locate or expand in
selected areas throughout the county.
• Companies creating 25 or more new jobs may be eligible
for a $1,250-per-job tax credit for five years in compliance
with the BEST program in the state of Georgia.
• Qualifying companies may receive free job training through
the Quick Start program in the state.
• Companies may qualify for investment tax credits or other
capital improvement credits through the BEST program.
• The retraining tax credit allows qualified employers an
income tax credit for certain costs of retraining employees
to use new equipment, new technology or new operating
systems.
• A tax credit is allowed for research expenses for research
conducted within Georgia for any business or headquarters
of any such business engaged in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, processing, telecommunications, tourism or research and development industries.
• Companies establishing their headquarters in or relocating their headquarters to Georgia may be entitled to a tax
credit if within one year a company invests $1 million and
creates 100 jobs at the new headquarters facility.
• The sale or lease of computer equipment to be used at a
facility or facilities in the state to any high-tech company is
exempt from sales and use tax.
ENDLESS BOARD MEETINGS
Unplug & reconnect –
that’s what ACWORTH is all about.
Whether you’re looking to connect
with friends, family or yourself, it’s the
perfect place to recharge and find
some time just for you.
From its scenic lakes, trails and parks,
to its quaint shops, exciting restaurants
and vibrant nightlife, Acworth helps
you re-energize with its unique local
flair. And with an array of outdoor
events as well as several challenging
golf courses, that connection you
long for will be there for the taking.
visitacworth.com
Experience the welcoming atmosphere that makes this city feel
so personal,
and discover
the natural
connection
Experience
the welcoming
atmosphere
that makes
this city that
feel is Acworth!
so personal,
and
the natural OF
connection
that is Acworth!
visitacworth.com
ACWORTH
IS discover
35 MILES NORTHWEST
ATLANTA, MINUTES
OFF I-75 FROM EXIT 277.
14 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
THE ULTIMATE EN V IRONMENT
FOR YOUR SUCCESS
1,0 0 0 - 50 0,0 0 0 SQUARE FEE T IN NORTHWEST ATL ANTA’S
MOST PRODUC TIVE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
FOR LEASING INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
CONNIE ENGEL | ATLANTAGALLERIA.COM | 770.859.1203
300 GALLERIA PARKWAY SE, SUITE 200 | ATL ANTA, GA 30339
Kennesaw State University
Education & Workforce
DEVELOPMENT
16 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
tage. Home to Chattahoochee Technical College, Kennesaw
State University and Life University, Cobb is a hub for a
highly educated workforce and population of young professionals. The HOPE Scholarship has made it possible for more
Georgians than ever to attain higher education at a reduced
rate, with college costs at any public institution in Georgia
completely covered for the highest achievers.
PRE-K
In 1993, Georgia became the first state to offer its residents
universal pre-K, proven to increase graduation rates, lower
welfare dependency and reduce incarceration rates among
citizens. The region invests in preschool education to close
achievement gaps, better prepare young children for learning, raise graduation rates and further build its well-educated
workforce.
Anthony Stalcup
A
ccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, 45 percent of
Cobb County residents hold a bachelor’s degree
as of 2011, compared with the national average
of 28.2 percent. Cobb ranks as the most educated county in
Georgia and the 12th most educated in the country.
Cobb County Public Schools and Marietta City Schools
are competitive in the metro Atlanta region. Students in Cobb
County and Marietta City school districts achieve equal or
better outcomes compared with the average student statewide
in graduation rates, performance on key end-of-course tests
and on standardized national tests such as the SAT and ACT.
Cobb County benefits from a strong focus on early childhood education; the state of Georgia ranks fourth in the
nation in the percentage of 4-year-olds enrolled in state preKindergarten.
Cobb’s higher education assets are a tremendous advan-
ADDITIONAL
RESOURCES
Online Training
Resources
Marietta City Schools
K–12
Cobb County has two public school districts: Cobb County School District and Marietta
City Schools. Our two districts boast fewer students per teacher than all other school
districts in the state. Cobb County and Marietta City students have consistently led the
state’s average ACT and SAT composite scores since 2006.
At the K–12 level, Georgia has paved the way for new approaches to education,
with Cobb County reaping the rewards. The state enables school systems as well as
individual schools to obtain charter status so they may determine how best to serve
their communities. Charter schools in the Cobb County School District include
International Academy of Smyrna, Kennesaw Charter, Sedalia Park Elementary
and Walton High School. Walton is nationally known for its exceptional achievement
rates and fine arts programs. Marietta City Schools became one of Georgia’s first
charter systems in June 2008.
In addition to charter schools, the county houses seven magnet programs that allow
students to reach their fullest potential. Current high school magnet programs include
Campbell (IB), North Cobb, Kennesaw Mountain, Marietta (IB), Pebblebrook, South
Cobb and Wheeler high schools.
HIGHER EDUCATION
KSU: Anthony Stalcup
Cobb County’s higher education institutions count among the area’s greatest assets.
These institutions provide significant economic impact to the region: They educate
existing residents, draw young people from outside the region, create value and innovation through research and development, revitalize surrounding neighborhoods and
support existing businesses and industry clusters.
Cobb is home to three primary institutions of higher education: Chattahoochee
Technical College, Kennesaw State University and Life University. Chattahoochee Tech
has partnered with area companies to provide customized training solutions and other
services to meet individual needs and strengthen research capacity and productivity.
Our strong, diverse and growing capacity for higher education provides the community with a competitive advantage in developing the next generation of talent
Cobb County’s higher education
institutions are some of the area’s
greatest assets and provide significant
economic impact to the region.
CobbWorks offers links
to websites that list a
variety of free online
learning and training
courses that will expand
your knowledge and
skills. cobbworks.org
Mobile Training
Centers
Both Georgia Quick
Start and CobbWorks
offer mobile training centers outfitted
to provide workforce
and job skills development at your doorstep.
cobbworks.org, georgiaquickstart.org
GeorgiaHIRE
GeorgiaHIRE connects
employers to the students and alumni from
Georgia’s 35 public
colleges and universities. Gain access to more
than 300,000 students
and 40,000 faculty and
staff. georgiahire.com
Students at KSU
selectcobb.com | 17
and in offering training and education
resources for employers. Our students
also benefit from being in close proximity to the many colleges and universities in the metro Atlanta area. There
are 41 public and private nonprofit
colleges and universities that offer twoand four-year degree programs within
a 50-mile radius of Cobb County.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
& TRAINING
Cobb-area businesses have at their disposal the nation’s best workforce training program: Georgia Quick Start.
This free service (provided at no charge
by the Technical College System of
Georgia) has earned the nation’s top
ranking and is credited as a key factor
in the success of the Kia plant in West
Point, Georgia. Nearly 1 million workers at 6,200 companies of all sizes have
benefited from Quick Start.
Georgia Quick Start delivers training in classrooms and mobile labs or
directly on the plant floor—essentially
The Walker
School
Chattahoochee Technical College provides customized training
solutions to meet your workplace training needs, including
programs in industrial maintenance, leadership, project
management, quality assurance, safety compliance, Six Sigma,
and time management- all aimed at improving your company’s
productivity and strengthening the bottom line. Our programs can
be delivered in the classroom, at your workplace, or online.
Contact the Economic Development Division at a location nearest you:
North Metro Campus - 770-975-4050
[email protected]
Marietta Campus - 770-528-4550
[email protected]
Chattahoochee Technical College is the largest technical college in Georgia and
offers numerous Community and Economic Development training opportunities.
The department annually provides over 240,000 hours of training to more than
11,000 individuals representing over 250 area employers. We deliver quality
training services that allow employees to successfully participate in the workforce
needed to stimulate Georgia’s economic growth and development.
For more information, visit our website at
ChattahoocheeTech.edu
Economic Development Division
A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia. Equal Opportunity Institution.
18 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
ENSURING THE
WORKFORCE
OF THE FUTURE
The Cobb Chamber has
launched an initiative designed to train Cobb’s labor
pool and talent for generations to come. The Workforce Development Partnerships program builds
partnerships between the
county’s employers and local primary, secondary and
higher education institutions. High school students
are assessed to determine
their talents and interests
and a clear career path.
Employers also gain a direct
connection with educators
to communicate the preferred skills of their employees. To learn more, contact
Rob Garcia III, Workforce
Development Manager, at
[email protected]
or 770-859-2349.
in any location that suits the company.
The program is designed to address the
needs of any sector but offers extensive experience delivering workforce
training in biotech and healthcare,
warehousing and distribution, automotive, advanced manufacturing and food
and agribusiness.
Companies may also benefit from
CobbWorks, a nonprofit providing
employment and educational services
for our community. CobbWorks helps
ensure an adequate supply of skilled
workers while supporting recruitment
needs. Through CobbWorks, employers can search for candidates, analyze
job market trends, access training and
education and get facts on Cobb’s
labor market.
One of Cobb County’s strongest
economic development assets is its
education system. From early to higher
education, our schools work closely
with the county’s employers to develop
curriculum to match the changing
needs of today’s work environment.
Join the
Kennesaw Renaissance
Kennesaw is undergoing a transformation! Growth is everywhere, including ground-up mixed use projects, commercial and industrial development, new and expanding
businesses, and a wide range of housing options. They
are choosing Kennesaw for its keystone location in Cobb
County, its excellent secondary and post-secondary education, and its exceptional recreational and cultural amenities.
Kennesaw offers the diversified economy, transportation
access, and high quality labor force to suit any thriving
business. Be a part of our new energy! Contact Bob Fox at
770-794-7076 or [email protected].
Visit kennesaw-ga.gov
Supplying the Energy that Drives Cobb County
542 Atlanta Street SE
Marietta, GA 30060-2229
770-421-8252
www.mobilizedfuels.com
selectcobb.com | 19
JE Dunn Construction
Economic Development
PROFESSIONALS
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS TO SERVE YOUR COMPANY
Cobb County prides itself on its cohesive, business-minded leadership.
The county’s economic development team has nurtured strategic partnerships encompassing various levels of government, educational institutions,
workforce development training organizations, funding agents and utilities
to make your expansion or relocation to Cobb a seamless transition.
The Cobb Chamber of Commerce serves as the single point of contact
for economic development initiatives for both new and existing businesses.
Whether your needs entail workforce and educational issues or incentives
and permitting, our experts stand ready to provide tailored solutions.
BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION TEAM
The business retention and expansion team consists of several different
community and state organizations that are committed to strengthening and
growing our existing industries. Our goal is to provide the necessary services,
information solutions and contacts to facilitate industry success and growth.
Our team works to facilitate business partnerships with local educational institutions in order to strengthen our current and future workforce. We encourage
companies to contact our team and explore opportunities for growth.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT TRAINING
CobbWorks
Chattahoochee Technical College
John Helton
President & CEO
[email protected]
770-528-4300
• Career services
• Job market services
• Training assistance
• Cobb Literacy Council
• Youth career advancement
Rex Bishop
Economic Development
[email protected]
770-528-4512
20 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
The following executives are
available to help with your
move or expansion into Cobb:
STEPHANIE
ADYLWORTH
City of Powder Springs
JAIME HOCKIN
Georgia Power Company
HEIDI ISOM
REX BISHOP
Chattahoochee
Technical College
RUSTY BLACKWOOD
Acworth Power
AMANDA BLANTON
Cobb Chamber
Marietta Power & Water
BROOKS MATHIS
Cobb Chamber
STROM MULL
Cobb Chamber
HOLLY QUINLAN
Cobb Travel & Tourism
TOM BOLAND
City of Smyrna
TRACY RATHBONE
BRANDON DOUGLAS
Town Center Community
Improvement District
City of Acworth
BOB FOX
City of Kennesaw
ROB GARCIA
Cobb Chamber
NELSON GETER
Development Authority of
Cobb County
MARK GODDARD
Cobb EMC
MALAIKA RIVERS
Cumberland Community
Improvement District
RACHEL ROGERS
Cobb Sports Alliance
BETH SESSOMS
City of Marietta
Georgia Department of Economic
Development
A Provider of Mental Health, Addiction and
Developmental Disabilities Services
Cobb Community Services Board
Administrative Office
3830 South Cobb Drive, Suite 300
Smyrna, GA 30080
770-429-5000
For Appointments, Referrals, and
Information 770-422-0202
“Serving those in the community most in need”
Lindsay Martin
Regional Project Manager
[email protected]
404-831-0944
• Georgia incentives for new and
existing companies
• Competitive market data research
and supplier match program
• International business connections
and export assistance
• Access to capital and state grants
• Connection to Georgia Centers of
Innovation
Georgia Department of Labor
Elizabeth Scott
Regional Coordinator, Region 3N
[email protected]
404-859-8907
• Job fairs
• Applicant screening
• Federal worker grants
• Special worker populations access
• Wage/labor information
• Job order listing
Georgia Tech Enterprise
Innovation Institute
Bill Ritsch
Region Manager
[email protected]
678-294-1579
• Advanced technology
development center
• Community innovation services
• Georgia Manufacturing
Extension partnership
• Strategic partners office
• Program in Science, Technology,
and Innovation policy
• Southeastern Trade Adjustment
Assistance Center
QuickStart
CYCLE OF GOODNESS™
“No one prospers without rending benefit to others.”
Giving back to our community for 45 years
Proud to have three companies headquartered in Cobb County
22 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
Rodger Brown
Executive Director
[email protected]
404-253-2815
• Comprehensive start-up training design and instruction for new
companies focusing on job-specific
technology transfer
• Comprehensive training for expanding companies with job growth
• Targeted training in new technologies
for existing companies
PROSPECTIVE & EXISTING
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Cobb Chamber
Brooks Mathis
Senior Vice President of
Economic Development
[email protected]
770-859-2358
• Community business issues
• State legislative actions
• Workforce development coordination
• Research resources
• Business networking
• Local connection with government
and other organizations
Development Authority
of Cobb County
Nelson Geter
Executive Director
[email protected]
770-859-2342
• Local demographics and incentives
• Bond financing
UTILITIES
Acworth Power
Rusty Blackwood
Director of Power
[email protected]
770-917-8903
• Community profiles
• Property search
• Resources including: Georgia maps,
incentives, transportation, training,
taxes, education and utilities
Gas South
Atlanta Gas Light
Jodie Huiet
Manager, Community Relations
and Economic Development
[email protected]
404-584-3950
Chris Coan
Vice President and General Manager of
Business and Government Markets
[email protected]
877-472-4932
Georgia Power Company
Mark Goddard
[email protected]
678-355-3109
Jamie Hockin
Regional Manager
[email protected]
770-618-5151
Electric Cities of Georgia
Marietta Power & Water
Lonnie Smallwood
Business Development Associate
[email protected]
678-202-3053
Heidi Isom
Business Development
[email protected]
770-794-5183
Cobb EMC
selectcobb.com | 23
Henry's Louisiana Grill
THE COBB LIFE
R
ich in natural beauty, with a variety of recreational
activities and great parks, Cobb County affords its
residents a higher quality of life. Factor in accessible home prices, an abundance of transportation options,
premium healthcare offerings, a military partnership and
community improvement districts, and it’s easy to see why
Cobb is an ideal place for your employees to call home.
HEALTHCARE
Exceptional expertise and cutting-edge technology combine
to create outstanding care at the hands of Cobb-based health
professionals.
Georgia’s largest non-academic, nonprofit health system,
WellStar Health System, operates five hospitals in northwestern Georgia, three of which are in Cobb County: Kennestone, Windy Hill and Cobb. In addition to being a major
area employer, WellStar contributes to the overall quality of
life of Cobb residents.
Supplementing these outposts are programs available to those
in need of psychiatric, senior, hospice or chiropractic assistance.
Residents also live in close proximity to metro Atlanta’s best
24 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
health and wellness facilities, including Children’s Healthcare of
Atlanta, Kaiser Permanente and nearby Northside Hospital.
RECREATION
From exhilarating theme parks to historic landmarks, Cobb County offers a variety of entertainment outlets. Thanks to a sincere
commitment to the preservation, enhancement and expansion
of greenspace, Cobb communities are home to more than 100
parks—each offering a lovely, unique setting in which to commune with nature or host social gatherings and outdoor events.
With more than 5,000 acres of federally owned parklands,
including the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
and the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, in
their backyards, Cobb residents enjoy the great outdoors. Lake
Allatoona Reservoir is known for its top-notch bass fishing; its
12,000 acres are perfect for docking your boat or spending the
night camping on Red Top Mountain, which offers priceless
panoramas of the North Georgia landscape.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to Kennesaw Mountain
National Battlefield Park, site of one of the most significant
conflicts during the Civil War, while adrenaline junkies will
want to plan a visit to Six Flags Over
Georgia, which offers a day’s worth
of amusement park thrills. To cool
off, head to Six Flags Whitewater, the
South’s largest water park.
A HOME FOR ENTREPRENEURS
Cobb County has a growing number of resources for small
business owners and entrepreneurs.
ARTS
Every year, Cobb’s cultural and fine
arts institutions welcome innovative
artists, musicians and performers from
around the world.
The Cobb Energy Performing Arts
Centre—the state’s premiere venue
for Broadway productions, concerts,
opera, ballet, family and educational
performances, corporate meetings and
events—is centrally located in Cumberland. Home to the Atlanta Opera and a
performance venue for the Atlanta Ballet, events at the Cobb Energy Centre
take place in either its 2,750-seat John
A. Williams Theatre or in the center’s
10,000-square-foot ballroom.
A visit to Cobb would not be complete without stopping by the Marietta/
Cobb Museum of Art in historic Mari-
Ignite HQ
ROAM Galleria
North Georgia’s new entrepreneurial business incubator, launched in partnership
with Kennesaw State University and the Cobb Chamber,
will provide support to inventors and problem solvers
looking to take their business
concepts global. 470-5783180, ignitehq.co
This new co-working and
meeting space is aimed at
work-at-home professionals
and entrepreneurs, offering a
vibrant environment in which
to work, grow their businesses and connect with fellow
professionals. 404-850-9740,
meetatroam.com
etta Square. Located in a 100-year-old
former U.S. Post Office building, the
museum houses an impressive collection of American art from the 18th
century to the present.
For an expanded list of attrac-
tions and sights, visit cobbchamber.org/
Amusement,-Attractions-Recreation.
HOUSING
Find the perfect home for your family
in Cobb County—whether it’s an
affordable starter house, a warehousestyle loft or an address in an exclusive,
gated community. With prices and
a cost of living below the national
average, you will get the most for your
money in Cobb. To search housing options
in Cobb, visit georgiamls.com.
MILITARY
For more than 150 years, Cobb County
has maintained close ties with America’s
military might. Today, residents and
visiting military personnel, both active
and retired, continue to play a vital role
in Cobb County’s economy, investing
millions of dollars annually.
Dobbins Air Reserve Base is headquarters to a multitude of military and
law enforcement organizations as well
as Lockheed Martin and Air Force
Plant #6. Dobbins is home to the 94th
Airlift Wing, the Georgia Department
of Defense, the 22nd Air Force Reserve
Headquarters, units of the Air National
Guard and Army National Guard,
Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air
Force Reserve organizations and the
Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Georgia Department of Defense
commands more than 11,000 Army Na26 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
tional Guardsmen, 2,300 Air Guardsmen
and 600 members of the Georgia State
Defense Force—and injects more than $1
billion a year into Georgia’s economy.
The 94th Airlift Wing is the host
organization at Dobbins Air Reserve
Base and is responsible for security, civil
engineering, fire protection, air traffic
control and numerous other services to
the base and tenant organizations.
COMMUNITY
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICTS
As early as the 1980s, the leaders of
Cobb County implemented the Community Improvement District (CID)
concept to address transportation issues
in key economic corridors of the county.
In Cobb, it is believed that success is
best accomplished through capable,
progressive local leadership.
CIDs involve participants who voluntarily increase their property taxes to
stimulate enhancements such as aesthetic
improvements, civic promotion and longterm property value increases. CIDs also
pave the way to state and federal grants.
The result is a long-term increase in
property and community value through
the upfront contribution of tax revenue.
Created through agreements with city
and county governments, CIDs have become mainstays in some of Cobb’s affluent communities. Since the first Georgia
CID was established in Cobb in 1988,
another 17 CIDs have formed in the
state—most of them in metro Atlanta.
The results are exceptional, and
transportation needs are met through
inventiveness, superb planning and
targeted investments.
Cumberland CID (CCID)
After the Georgia State Legislature
created the opportunity to establish
CIDs, Cobb became the first county
to create one with the inception of the
Cumberland Community Improvement District more than 25 years ago.
United in a common goal, commercial
property owners in the area formed the
CID to increase property values for the
county’s central business district. The
Cumberland CID holds the distinction
of being a regional model and one of
the most successful in the state. Thanks
“It is my pleasure to welcome you to Cobb
County. It’s a great place to live, work and
play. If you seek a bank that knows you,
serves you and works to tailor banking
solutions for you and your business, we want
to be part of your success. We invite you to
turn to us.”
Terri Bunten Guthrie
Cobb Market President
First Landmark Bank
www.firstlandmarkonline.com | 770-792-8870
307 N. Marietta Parkway | Marietta, GA 30060
Where Membership Means Business
The Georgian Club, located in The Cobb Galleria, values its partnership
with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce and hosts meetings and events
for many Chamber groups, including Leadership Cobb Alumni, Cobb
Executive Women and the Cumberland Area Council. Special club
membership opportunities are available for Chamber members.
To learn more about why the club is the essential business resource for
many area and community leaders, please contact Beverly Huff at
[email protected] or (770) 952-6000.
100 Galleria Parkway • 17th Floor
Atlanta, GA 30339 • 770.952.6000
www.georgianclub.com
www.nationalallianceclubs.com
selectcobb.com | 27
to its public-private partnerships, the CCID has leveraged $116
million into an estimated half a billion dollars in roads, bridges,
streetscapes, trails and improvements.
The Cumberland CID encompasses 5.5 square miles in area
but represents 1.7 percent of Georgia’s total jobs, with more
than 65,000 full-time jobs. The district amounts to 5 percent of
Georgia’s economy and 33 percent of Cobb County’s.
Major projects advanced by the CCID include:
Select CCID Capital Improvement Projects
• $48 million Windy Hill improvement projects, including
diverging diamond interchange
• $35.75 million U.S. 41/Cobb Parkway widening and trail
• $18.8 million U.S. 41/Cobb Parkway bridge replacement
• $3.65 street/pedestrian lighting and mast arms project
• $6.30 million Cumberland Boulevard west intersection
improvement and streetscape
• $1.06 million Cumberland Boulevard bridgescape
• $9 million Bob Callan Trunk Trail Phase II A & B
• $600,000 Riverwood Parkway streetscape
• $3.80 million U.S. 41/Cobb Parkway central and west
streetscapes
• $2.9 million Akers Mill Trail East
To learn more, visit cumberlandcid.org.
Gateway Marietta CID
The Gateway Marietta CID was founded in June of 2014 and
is located in the City of Marietta, primarily along Franklin
Road, between South Marietta Parkway and Delk Road. The
initial goals for the CID are to help the City of Marietta clean
up the area through infrastructure and beautification, as well
as to form a unified voice for a part of town that has lacked a
vision for decades.
The first major project to locate within the district is the Atlanta United Football Club training facility. The development
will be the flagship soccer facility in the Southeast.
To learn more, visit gatewaymariettacid.org.
Town Center Community Improvement
District (TCCID)
In keeping with Cobb County’s coordinated and comprehensive
planning efforts, this CID is addressing area traffic congestion
and air-quality problems by promoting infrastructure improvements and providing additional services and facilities for parks
and recreation areas, land-use planning and development.
Since its creation in 1997, the TCCID has committed $30
million in additional tax revenue to advance projects for a
total of more than $140 million in transportation and qualityof-life improvements. The TCCID facilitates discussions and
provides planning, seed money and other services. Several key
projects for the TCCID include the Big Shanty Extension,
the Skip Spann Connector and the Noonday Creek Trail. In
November 2015, the TCCID was the first CID in Georgia to
launch a bike-share program, debuting 20 bikes at five locations throughout its trail system.
For more information on the TCCID, visit tcacid.com.
National Contractor of the Year, 2014
Associated Builders and Contractors
Serving Cobb County by providing
partnership and expertise for exceptional
construction projects for over 30 years.
From top:
SunTrust Park
Proud to be part of American Builders 2017
Sterling Estates East Cobb
WellStar East Cobb Health Park
brasfieldgorrie.com
28 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
International Airport
Cobb County:
A GLOBAL GATEWAY
C
obb County is just a 30-minute drive to the
world’s busiest international airport, 20 minutes
from downtown Atlanta and located at the Southeast’s intersection of interstate, air and rail infrastructure—
providing access to 80 percent of the nation’s population
within two days.
AIR
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) continues to rank as the world’s most traveled airport in terms
of passenger volume and lies a mere 20 miles from the
center of Cobb County. Getting to the airport from Cobb
County is simple, with easy access via I-285 or I-75. The
airport is home to Delta Airlines, the world’s largest airline
as measured by passenger volume. Hartsfield-Jackson’s
International Terminal positions Atlanta as a global gateway for the Southeastern United States and as a preferred
destination for international business and tourism. With its
40 international gates, the airport offers access to nearly 80
30 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
international destinations in more than 50 countries.
Cobb County Airport-McCollum Field (RYY) is a public airport just 21 miles northwest of the central business
district of Atlanta and centrally located within the county.
McCollum Field hosts an average of 350 corporate and
pleasure aircraft, most of them single-engine. On a 6,305foot runway, 475 takeoffs and landings occur each day,
making McCollum Field the third-busiest airport in Georgia. In 2014, McCollum debuted two major projects—a
new air traffic control tower and a U.S. Customs facility.
ROADS AND INTERSTATES
Cobb County is accessed by four major interstate highways (I-75, I-285, I-20 and I-575) along with more than
2,000 miles of roads, state highways and commercial rail
lines such as CSX and Norfolk Southern. Transportation
is a major priority for Cobb County, where leaders believe
access to amenities should be easy and stress-free.
Cobb voters have approved a six-year SPLOST
(Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax) for investments
in maintaining, improving and enhancing county parks,
transportation, infrastructure, public safety, libraries, senior
services, judicial and public health facilities. This program will
generate a total of $750 million. Every project funded by the
SPLOST will improve quality of life in Cobb County. As a result, Cobb County will be a better place to live, work and play.
Cobb has already invested hundreds of millions of dollars
in local funding for transportation development—more than
any other existing Georgia community. As the result of three
voter-approved, 1 percent special-use sales tax programs for
transportation, almost $1 billion in local dollars has been invested in local highway, road and street improvements during
the 1990s. This focused road improvement program continues
today and is paid for in cash.
TRANSIT
Cobb Community Transit (CCT) offers superb service within
Cobb County and to downtown Atlanta with fixed, express
or para-transit services. CCT operates a fleet of 101 buses on
24 routes, which carry almost 4.5 million customers annually,
making it the second largest transit system in Georgia. CCT
provides commuters convenient, accessible, customer-focused,
safe, reliable and efficient service. These services extend outside of the county and are seamlessly linked with the MARTA
system in Atlanta to provide access to entertainment, employment centers, parks, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International
Airport and more.
Since the inception of Cobb’s Community Improvement
Districts (CIDs), revenues have been re-invested and leveraged
for state and federal dollars for funding of public transportation and roadway improvements.
The Cumberland (CCID) and Town Center (TCCID)
Transportation is a major priority
for Cobb County, where leaders
believe access to amenities
should be easy and stress-free.
The Northwest Corridor Express
Lanes are currently under
construction and will improve
travel in the I-75 and I-575
corridor. The project adds 29.7
miles of reversible toll lanes to
improve traffic flow and bring
added options for motorists
and transit passengers. To learn
more, visit dot.ga.gov.
Georgia Ports Authority
CIDs have been recognized by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency as “Best Workplaces for Commuters.” Currently, the CCID and TCACID are pursuing new, reversible
high-occupancy toll lanes on I-75, expanded high-occupancy
vehicle lanes (HOVs), premium bus rapid transit, light rail and
extensive interchange improvements on I-75.
Cobb’s accessible and reliable rail transportation is essential
to the many manufacturers who require raw materials from
other locations, such as Georgia’s deep-water ports at Savannah and Brunswick, as well as to those who send materials
elsewhere in the nation.
PORTS
American businesses have chosen the Port of Savannah as
a pivotal connection point in their global supply chains. In
2015, the Georgia Ports Authority handled unprecedented
cargo volumes without congestion. The port moved 3.66 million 20-foot equivalent container units, making it the largest
single container terminal in America.
Georgia’s deep-water ports provide vital support to the
state’s agricultural, forestry and manufacturing sectors and
moved a record-setting 27 million tons of cargo through
terminals in the fiscal year ending June 2013.
The Ports Authority achieved a record total for auto and
machinery, moving more than 680,000 units of roll-on/
roll-off cargo in fiscal year 2015. Georgia’s deep-water ports
and inland barge terminals support more than 369,193 jobs
throughout the state annually and contribute $20.4 billion
in income, $84.1 billion in sales and $2.3 billion in state and
local taxes to Georgia’s economy.
UTILITIES & WATER
Cobb County is served by a number of electricity providers, depending on location: Acworth Power, Cobb Electric Membership Corporation, Georgia Power Company, Greystone Power
Corporation and Marietta Power & Water. Companies with
larger needs have the option to choose among power suppliers.
Water, sewer and storm water management is supplied to
more than 680,000 customers in households and businesses
spanning 348 square miles by Cobb County Water System.
The only independently funded water system in the country
with three AAA bond ratings, the Cobb County Water System is nationally recognized as an industry leader in service
delivery, environmental protection, facility operations and
maintenance and expansion of infrastructure.
selectcobb.com | 31
Kennesaw
REDEVELOPMENT
OPPORTUNITIES
C
obb County had a banner year in the area of
redevelopment. Says Brooks Mathis, senior vice
president of Economic Development at the Cobb
Chamber: “The redevelopment efforts in our community are
working, with the announcement of over $20 million in investments into South Cobb, with a 600,000-square-foot job center
and the continued reinvestment in Six Flags Over Georgia.
The efforts around Franklin and Canton roads are thriving,
creating a fresh energy in these areas of opportunity.”
There are a number of financial tools and incentives that
allow developers to maximize their investment in the county
and in the following communities ripe for redevelopment
and revitalization:
ACWORTH
Acworth is home to approximately 22,000 residents who enjoy an exemplary lifestyle in northwestern Cobb County. This
quality of life has resulted in Acworth growing at the fastest
rate of any other city in the county over the last decade and a
half. The unique charm of Acworth is accomplished through
a diverse mix of opportunities for residents and businesses.
Contact the Economic Development Team at 770-974-3112.
32 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
AUSTELL
Strategically located in southwestern Cobb County, Austell is
approximately 18 miles from the city of Atlanta and just minutes
from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. State-of-the
art hospitals and medical care are readily available. Regional
shopping as well as cultural, recreation and leisure activities are
within easy driving distance. Nationally recognized Cobb County schools afford excellent learning opportunities for elementary
and high school students. Universities, colleges and technical
schools in the immediate area provide advanced education.
Austell offers a friendly, small-town atmosphere that invites
residential, commercial and industrial growth. Businesses
enjoy the benefits of low property taxes, low occupational tax
structure and 100 percent freeport exemptions. The city also
benefits from easy access to I-20, I-285 and Thornton Road,
a main thoroughfare that links the area to Northwest Georgia.
To learn more, call 770-944-4300.
KENNESAW
Kennesaw is a safe, vibrant community conveniently located in
the heart of Cobb County 25 miles northwest of Atlanta, where
families and businesses flourish. The city is earning accolades
for its low crime rate and exceptional quality of life as well as
its variety of amenities and high median household income.
The most important elements required for business
development come together in Kennesaw: a diversified local
economy, multiple transportation options, a list of move-in
ready properties and an available, high-quality labor force.
Leading companies in manufacturing, technology, healthcare,
and retail have chosen Kennesaw as their home. Located
along both the I-75 and US-41 corridors, the city enjoys excellent accessibility. McCollum Field, a business-class airport
offering corporate and pleasure aircraft operations daily, is
only minutes away. A streamlined, developer-friendly project
approval and permit process offers incentives for businesses
that provide positive economic impact. Contact Robert Fox
for more information at 770-794-7075 or [email protected].
MARIETTA
The city of Marietta has positioned itself for redevelopment.
The passage of a $68 million redevelopment bond, three Opportunity Zone Tax Credit areas and two nationally known
universities—Kennesaw State University and Life University,
coupled with Chattahoochee Technical College, the largest
technical college in the state of Georgia—make Marietta an
ideal location for your business. Our educated and highly
skilled workforce has inspired leading businesses and industries to move to Marietta. Residents enjoy the city’s historic
roots and the many activities the Square offers, from a Saturday
farmers market to art walks, live concerts, theatres, boutiques
and restaurants. Opportunities for new residential, office and
industrial development are available. In 2015, The Home
Depot Marietta Technology Center and the Atlanta United
Football Club made Marietta and the Franklin Road Corridor
their site of choice. For more information, contact the Office of
Economic Development at 770-794-5717 or mariettaga.gov.
NORTHEAST COBB
Northeast Cobb consists of three commercially focused areas:
Canton Road, the intersection of East Piedmont Road and
Sandy Plains Road and the intersection of Sandy Plains Road
and Shallowford Road.
Canton Road is one area in Cobb County focused on redevelopment and revitalization. This commercial corridor has
undergone significant change in the past few years. In 2013,
the Canton Road Enterprise Zone was created to help target
the redevelopment along this important East Cobb corridor.
Currently, the Canton Road Enterprise Zone encompasses
only the commercial properties along the corridor from South
Piedmont Road to Sylvan Drive. Businesses locating within
the Enterprise Zone are eligible for tax incentives and economic incentives for job creation in the area.
The intersection of Sandy Plains and East Piedmont is
part of a Redevelopment Overlay District (ROD). An ROD
Since 1997, Town Center CID and our partners have invested more than
$140 million in infrastructure and beautification projects in our area. But for us, it goes
beyond increasing commercial real estate value.
We are leading the way in the community improvement sector with long-term
plans that will continually enrich Town Center, making it an even more
accessible, beautiful place for every aspect of your life.
Offering more than 5.5 million sq. ft. of commercial space, 8 miles of
scenic trails and easy access to two interstates, we are also home to
Kennesaw State University, Cobb County International Airport
and a plethora of dining, shopping & entertainment options.
Visit us in Cobb County and see our
Town Center vision come to life.
Putting Town Center on
the Map Since 1997
tcacid.com
selectcobb.com | 33
promotes mixed-use development in the district and gives businesses priority in development. To learn more about opportunities in this area, contact Dana Johnson at 770-528-2018.
POWDER SPRINGS
Powder Springs takes a specialized approach to economic
development that focuses on community development of both
the historic commercial district and the larger properties available for industrial development. The city has a strategic focus
on community development, augmenting amenities, showcasing
heritage and creating a sense of place for residents as well as
businesses and their employees.
The Development Authority of Powder Springs (DAPS)
and the Powder Springs Downtown Development Authority
(PSDDA) each possess a unique set of recruitment tools that
assist with the development or relocation of small, large and
industrial businesses. We also boast partnerships with local,
county and state economic development programs to provide
additional incentives that complement our local offerings. It is
our aim to create the ideal incentive package for your project's
needs. For more information, visit cometopowdersprings.org.
SMYRNA
Smyrna has a reputation for progressive, smart growth, with
the award‐winning Smyrna Market Village as the epicenter of
ongoing redevelopment in downtown Smyrna. Two large‐scale
Cobb_Business_Journal_Ad_Chamber_Message_v2.pdf
1
10/9/15
mixed‐use projects nearby will add new living options and integrated shopping destinations in the coming months.
Great infrastructure isn’t limited to roads and bridges anymore. In 2015, Google Fiber announced that it will bring its
ultra‐high-speed, gigabit Internet service to the City of Smyrna.
Completion of this asset will establish Smyrna as one of the
most connected communities in the country.
Smyrna is adjacent to the Cumberland employment center and
future home of the Atlanta Braves, but the city’s economy is noteworthy in its own right. Key employers include GLOCK, IBM and
UCB. These companies reflect a diverse and well‐balanced mix
of manufacturing, technology, biopharmaceutical and healthcare
industries. Contact Smyrna Community Development at 770-3195387 to learn more.
SOUTH COBB
South Cobb is an entertainment hub of Cobb County. The
location borders Douglas County to the west and Fulton
County to the east, with close proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson
International Airport, I-20 and I-285. With several amenities
and tourist attractions, including the Mable House Barnes
Amphitheatre, Chattahoochee River, the newly built Riverside
EpiCenter and the recent additions to Six Flags Over Georgia
and Hurricane Harbor water park, this area is coming alive
with new investment. Contact Dana Johnson at 770-528-2018
to learn more about South Cobb.
9:36 AM
C
M
Y
CM
At Gas South, we are proud to call Cobb County home. As members
of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, we’re committed to the
businesses within our community. Let us help you with the support
and solutions that will fuel your success for many years to come.
MY
CY
CMY
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Cobb Chamber members start saving today with:
• Great everyday low rates
• Waived customer service fees
• Dedicated account managers and operations support team
• Outstanding local customer service
VISIT
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34 | 2016 Economic Development Guide
The Cobb County Water System (CCWS)
operates and maintains approximately
2,500 miles of sanitary sewer, thirtyeight wastewater lift stations, and four
wastewater treatment facilities.
We
are committed to proper management,
operation, and maintenance of all parts
of the wastewater collection system and
infrastructure, and to the return of high
quality effluent to the environment.
CCWS partners
with our wholesale
provider to distribute
clean, safe water to
more than 178,000
customer accounts in
a manner that is safe
for families and the
environment. This
service is essential to
the health, safety, and
economic viability of
the community.
STORMWATER
www.cobbwater.org | 770. 419.6200
COBB
COUNTY
WATER SYSTEM
WASTEWATER
WATER
C CWS’s Stor mwater
Management program
serves as a model for the
efficient control of nonpoint source pollution.
Program goals are to
maintain stormwater
infrastructure, control
flooding, and preserve
water quality now and for
future generations.
selectcobb.com | 35
CHOOSE
COBB.
“Lockheed Martin
made Cobb its home
64 years ago. We
stayed because of its
welcoming business
climate, great
educational
institutions, and
available and
talented work force.”
Shan Cooper
Vice President & General Manager-Marietta
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company
selectcobb.com
Cobb County
AREA MAP
Vicinity Map
Cobb County lies in the northwestern
portion of metro Atlanta. Marietta is the
county seat; other municipalities are
Acworth, Austell, Kennesaw, Smyrna and
Powder Springs.
FORSYTH
CHEROKEE
Acworth
400
Kennesaw
Marietta
GWINNETT
PAULDING
COBB
Powder Springs
285
Smyrna
Vinings
Austell
Mableton
Atlanta
20
DOUGLAS
400
285
DEKALB
20
FULTON
285
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
International Airport
675
CLAYTON
38 | 2016 Economic Development
Guide
HENRY
Cobb County is in a logistical
sweet spot, with four major
interstate highways, numerous
state highways, intermodal rail,
proximity to the world’s busiest
airport and numerous surface
transportation options.
It’s a little more than keeping
the lights on!
Keeping the lights on takes
high priority with a
Class A office building.
At City View on
Cumberland
Boulevard, Granite
Properties and
Marietta Power
partner to
consistently bring
efficient solutions to
all the electrical needs
of this ENERGY STAR
and Silver LEED Certified
building.
www.mariettapowerandwater.com
CUT YOUR ENERGY
COSTS WITHOUT
CUTTING CORNERS.
GET REBATES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
AND REDUCE ENERGY USE.
Georgia Power’s Commercial Energy Efficiency program has great incentives that
reduce the cost of adding high-efficiency equipment, which helps you spend less on
energy. Whether you’re renovating, building from the ground up or just looking to
save money, now is the time to lower your energy costs.
Incentives apply to: lighting, water heating, heating and cooling, custom savings,
food service and grocery, small commercial and reflective roofing
Get started at georgiapower.com/commercialsavings or call 1-877-310-5607.
©2015 Georgia Power. All rights reserved.
Other facilities might treat children, but they’re not
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. From broken bones
to cancer, we’re the only healthcare system in Atlanta
100% dedicated to treating kids. To learn more or to
find the location near you, visit choa.org/cobb.
©2015 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.
If you don’t see Hope & Will,
it’s not Children’s Healthcare
of Atlanta.
6 COBB LOCATIONS IN KENNESAW, MARIETTA AND SMYRNA
Meet Kennesaw State’s
Charles E. Ross
Kennesaw State’s recent consolidation with
Southern Polytechnic has set the university
on a course to becoming one world-class
institution. We call the combined university
“The New U.”
As the first vice president for economic
development and community engagement
at Kennesaw State, Charles represents the
changes taking place at the new university.
With more than 33,000 students from over
130 countries, Kennesaw State now is one
of the 50-largest public universities in the
country. We have over 100,000 graduates,
and our annual economic impact is expected
to soar well above the current $1.2 billion.
Creating the University’s first Office of
Economic Development and Community
Engagement — and appointing Charles to
lead it — is part of a bolder vision for the
new Kennesaw State. That vision includes
broadening our network of partnerships
and expanding career and civic engagement
opportunities for our students.
Feel free to call Charles at (470) 578-7238.
Engage with him to see what you and
“The New U” can accomplish together.
engage.kennesaw.edu