Industry leaders, community members and stakeholders celebrate the community’s accomplishments.
Town Center Community held its third annual State of the District at the Governors Gun Club in Kennesaw, Ga. on Oct. 22. The event, hosted by Town Center’s Community Improvement District (CID) and its non-profit placemaking partner, the Alliance, brought together industry leaders, community members and key stakeholders to discuss the district’s vision for 2025 and to recognize the winners of the 2024 Townie Awards.
This year’s event, focused on fostering a thriving business, academic and residential community, included the announcement of both short and long-term initiatives such as phase 2 of Lanie Park, Big Shanty Widening, deployment of Regional Connected Vehicle Program technology within the district, and more.
This year’s honored leaders who have been a part of Town Center Community’s rich history and have made significant contributions to Town Center’s success include:
Townie Award Honorees
Community Champion – The KSU Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth
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Commercial Champion – Laverne Kinamore, Salon Z Hair Studio
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Town Center Champion – BrightView Landscapes
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This year’s event reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared vision of making Town Center a growing, thriving community,” said Tracy Styf, executive director for Town Center Community. “Honoring our 2024 Townie Award winners exemplifies the collective effort it takes to build a vibrant and inclusive district.”
Two featured panel discussions showcased how Town Center’s diverse industries drive economic resilience and growth, while also highlighting the significance of Kennesaw State University’s entry into Conference USA and the designation of Fifth Third Stadium as a training venue for the 2026 World Cup.
The World Stage Panelists included: Rachel Rogers, Vice President Sports Sales & Engagement of Cobb Sports Alliance, Randy Koporc, Regional President of Fifth Third Bank, and Teddy Parrish, President & CIO of Parrish Capital.
The Economic Drivers and Resilience panelists included: Ashley West, Regional Economic Development Manager of Georgia Power Economic Development, Mike Alexander, COO of Atlanta Regional Commission, and Michael Davis, Co-founder and Partner of D&G Development Group.
“Our community’s success is built on collaboration and innovation. As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to implement new strategic plans that further the development of the Town Center area,” according to Britt Fleck, vice chair of the CID board of directors.
During the event, Town Center Community announced more than $100,000 has been raised for the Lanie Ship Hoover Fund. With last year’s event donations, the community completed phase 1 of Lanie Park, an inaugural park dedicated to Lanie Shipp Hoover’s memory that demonstrates her vision for Town Center.
This year’s Gold Sponsors included:
This year’s Silver Sponsors included:
