The City of Gainesville, Georgia has recently updated its Comprehensive Plan. TSW led a multidisciplinary team to develop this update. Over the last decade, Gainesville has experienced steady growth and changing demographics, which will likely influence future development.

To ensure the updated Comprehensive Plan met community needs and reflected current trends, TSW focused on three main goals:

1. Condense and prioritize years of policy recommendations into a clear, concise guide for future development decisions.
2. Anticipate future development trends and create aspirational design ideas to shape the city’s future.
3. Create an accessible, easy-to-read plan document for all community members.

The updated Gainesville Comprehensive Plan includes key elements such as goals, strategies, action items, and tools for best development practices. These recommendations cover various factors, including economic development, transportation, and housing. Updates were made to the Character Area Map, condensing classifications and refining policies and implementation measures. The plan also proposes transforming three key redevelopment areas into new mixed-use centers to meet commercial and housing demand, integrating them into the Highlands to Islands trail network. Additionally, an implementation plan outlines project descriptions, funding strategies, and the people involved.

Community input was vital throughout the plan’s development. Opportunities for feedback included virtual meetings, in-person public meetings, online surveys, activities, and a booth at a yearly festival. This inclusive approach ensured that the Comprehensive Plan reflects the community’s needs and desires, providing a clear roadmap for Gainesville’s future development.