The Norcross communications team pitched recent action by the city council at its June 1 meeting as reflecting an “ongoing commitment to enhancing public spaces [and] investing in public safety infrastructure.”
While a couple of residents voiced opposition to on-street parking and the tree clearing necessary for expanded downtown parking, elected officials and many at city hall frame it as improving services for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Council members approved the on-street parking unanimously as part of the consent agenda, before residents spoke both in favor and against the proposal.
Parking added with rezoning
The $200,000 budget for 37 public on-street parallel parking spaces is a part of a new residential development planned for 290 and 300 Academy Street.
Robert Forro of 4.0 Construction’s development includes 15 detached custom-built single-family homes on about 3.33 acres. The project will preserve and renovate the existing two-story historical home. Plans also include perimeter sidewalks, a private alley providing access to rear garages, and a stormwater detention area designed as a park-like amenity.
During earlier discussions of the project, the council requested options to incorporate public on-street parking into the development. The approved funding will compensate the developer for additional right-of-way dedicated to the city to accommodate the parking improvements.
The city’s announcement says the new public parking spaces will improve downtown accessibility for residents and visitors while enhancing connectivity within the surrounding area. Funding comes from the city’s share of Gwinnett County’s SPLOST for transportation.
Council backs two arts initiatives
The council also approved funding and plans for two projects developed by the public arts commission.
The first project, Amplified!, received grant support from the Gwinnett Creativity Fund. The project will create coloring placemats featuring artwork for children and collectible postcards showcasing the city. The placemats will be distributed to restaurants in historic Norcross and, when available, local elementary schools. Postcards will be available at the Norcross Welcome Center and select retail locations, according to the city’s announcement.
The second project builds on the “Norcross Forever” utility box vinyl wraps installed throughout the city earlier this year. Funding is secured to create a stamp collection that includes 40 themed images highlighting Norcross venues, events, history, and culture. Stamp booklets and sticker sheets will be distributed through local businesses and the welcome center to encourage residents and visitors to explore the community, according to city officials.
City overhauls technology
The council approved several technology improvements designed to strengthen the city’s communications and cybersecurity infrastructure.
The city approved the implementation of AT&T’s ASEoD platform and related connectivity enhancements. The project includes the use of cybersecurity grant funding to support network security improvements.
The system provides increased internet bandwidth, enhanced network security, and backup internet connectivity for facilities, including the new Norcross Public Safety Building, according to a city release.
Council members also approved a citywide transition to AT&T Hosted Voice Services, a cloud-based communications platform. City staff said it will allow for communication across departments, improve reliability, and ensure backup capabilities for critical services, including emergency dispatch operations.
