FAQ — Town Center at Mansa Park

Question 1

Why this project?

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park was envisioned to create more than a collection of buildings. It is designed to become a vibrant master-planned town center that brings together places to live, work, shop, dine, stay, receive healthcare, gather, and enjoy recreation — all within one thoughtfully planned community. The goal is to create a destination that strengthens South Fulton's economy, supports local businesses, creates employment opportunities, and enhances quality of life while serving residents for generations to come.

Question 2

Why this location?

Accepted Answer

The Old National Highway corridor has long been recognized as one of South Fulton's most important commercial corridors and gateways to the community. Its strategic location provides access to regional transportation networks, major employment centers, existing neighborhoods, educational institutions, and commercial districts — including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and interstate highways. Town Center at Mansa Park is designed to build upon these advantages while helping transform the corridor into a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Question 3

Why South Fulton?

Accepted Answer

South Fulton is one of Georgia's youngest and fastest-growing cities, with tremendous potential for continued economic growth and investment. The development team believes South Fulton deserves a destination that reflects the strength, diversity, and future of its community — with a strategic location within Metro Atlanta, a diverse and talented workforce, strong transportation connectivity, expanding residential communities, opportunities for business growth, rich cultural diversity, and a vision for sustainable development.

Question 4

Why now?

Accepted Answer

South Fulton is experiencing continued growth in population, business activity, and regional investment. Thoughtful planning today helps prepare South Fulton for tomorrow — supporting the city's long-term growth strategy, attracting new employers and investment, expanding housing and community amenities, strengthening the local economy, improving infrastructure, creating opportunities for residents and local businesses, and building a destination that serves future generations.

Question 5

What is the vision for Town Center at Mansa Park?

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is envisioned as a destination where families gather, businesses thrive, entrepreneurs grow, residents find career opportunities close to home, visitors experience the best of South Fulton, and future generations benefit from responsible planning and investment. This is more than a development — it is a long-term commitment to South Fulton and its future.

Question 6

How will traffic be managed?

Accepted Answer

Traffic planning is a critical component of the development process. Professional traffic engineers evaluate existing conditions, future traffic demand, roadway capacity, access points, intersections, turning lanes, signal timing, and pedestrian safety. Recommendations are coordinated with transportation agencies to identify appropriate roadway and infrastructure improvements that support both the development and the surrounding community. A comprehensive traffic study is completed as part of the planning and permitting process.

Question 7

When did construction begin?

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park has officially broken ground. Phase One construction is now underway, and the development team will continue to provide updates on progress and milestones as the project advances. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through this website and community meetings.

Question 8

How will construction impacts be managed?

Accepted Answer

Construction activities are temporary and occur in planned phases. The project team will work with contractors to comply with applicable local requirements related to work hours, site operations, and safety. Residents will receive updates regarding major construction milestones, and efforts will be made to minimize unnecessary disruption where practical.

Question 9

Will local residents have employment opportunities?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Town Center at Mansa Park is expected to create employment opportunities during both construction and long-term operations — across construction, engineering, hospitality, healthcare, retail, restaurants, corporate offices, technology, property management, administration, maintenance, security, and professional services. The development team intends to promote opportunities for local hiring and workforce development as the project advances.

Question 10

Will local businesses have opportunities to participate?

Accepted Answer

The development team is committed to creating opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, contractors, suppliers, restaurants, retailers, and professional service providers. The goal is to encourage participation from businesses within South Fulton and the surrounding region — including veteran-owned, minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises — whenever possible.

Question 11

What types of housing are planned?

Accepted Answer

The master plan is designed to include a variety of housing options to support a diverse community — including workforce housing, market-rate residences, and luxury residential opportunities. A balanced housing strategy helps support professionals, families, seniors, and employees working within the community.

Question 12

How will this project benefit South Fulton?

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is planned to provide long-term benefits for the entire community — including new employment opportunities, expanded housing choices, new restaurants and retail, corporate office opportunities, infrastructure improvements, parks and public gathering spaces, healthcare services, increased opportunities for local businesses, and additional private investment throughout South Fulton.

Question 13

Will public safety be considered?

Accepted Answer

Safety is a priority in the planning and design of Town Center at Mansa Park. The project includes planning for public safety facilities and community-serving infrastructure as part of the overall vision — including well-lit streets and sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly design, active public spaces, professional property management, security planning, and coordination with public safety agencies.

Question 14

How is the environment being considered?

Accepted Answer

Environmental studies are conducted throughout the planning process. The project incorporates responsible planning for sustainable development — including stormwater management, landscaping, tree preservation where feasible, green space, walkability, modern infrastructure, and sustainable development practices. Development near streams, wetlands, and other protected areas must comply with applicable local, state, and federal environmental requirements.

Question 15

How can I stay informed and get involved?

Accepted Answer

Community engagement is an essential part of the development process. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate throughout the process — through public information meetings, community presentations, listening sessions, website updates, and ongoing communication with residents and stakeholders. You can also reach out directly to the development team at info@mansapark.com or visit the Get Involved page on this website.

Question 16

What is the Old National Highway Overlay District and how does it affect Mansa Park?

Accepted Answer

The Old National Highway Overlay District is a special zoning overlay established by the City of South Fulton to guide development along the Old National Highway corridor. It sets design standards, land-use parameters, and development guidelines intended to create a cohesive, high-quality built environment that reflects the community's vision for the corridor. Town Center at Mansa Park falls within this overlay district, meaning the project is designed in full compliance with — and in many ways exemplifies — the standards the overlay was created to achieve. The overlay encourages mixed-use development, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, quality architecture, and activated public spaces, all of which are central to the Mansa Park master plan.

Question 17

What design standards does the Old National Highway Overlay District require?

Accepted Answer

The overlay district establishes standards across several categories including building placement, façade design, landscaping, signage, and parking. Buildings are encouraged to be oriented toward the street to activate the public realm, with parking located to the side or rear. Façades must incorporate architectural variety and high-quality materials. Landscaping requirements promote tree canopy, green buffers, and pedestrian amenities. These standards directly inform the design language of Town Center at Mansa Park, ensuring the development enhances the corridor and sets a benchmark for future investment in South Fulton.

Question 18

What types of uses are permitted under the overlay district?

Accepted Answer

The Old National Highway Overlay District permits a broad range of uses consistent with a vibrant mixed-use corridor. These include retail, restaurant, office, hotel, residential, civic, and entertainment uses — all of which are represented in the Town Center at Mansa Park program. The overlay is specifically designed to support the kind of Live-Work-Play destination that Mansa Park represents, making it an ideal regulatory framework for the project's ambitions.

Question 19

Has this project been submitted to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Town Center at Mansa Park has been submitted to and reviewed by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) as part of the required regional review process. The ARC review has been completed in accordance with applicable regional planning requirements. This review is a standard part of the development process for projects of this scale in the metro Atlanta area.

Question 20

Has this project been submitted to the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Town Center at Mansa Park has been submitted to and reviewed by the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) as part of the required state-level review process. The GRTA review has been completed in accordance with applicable transportation and land use requirements. This review is a standard regulatory step for large-scale developments with regional significance in Georgia.

Question 21

Who is responsible for road and infrastructure improvements — the developer or the City?

Accepted Answer

The primary responsibility for on-site infrastructure improvements — including internal roads, sidewalks, utilities, and site grading — rests with the developer. Off-site improvements required as a result of the development's traffic and utility impact are typically determined through the permitting and development review process in coordination with the City of South Fulton and applicable utility providers. Any required off-site road improvements, turn lanes, or signal modifications will be identified through the traffic impact study process and addressed accordingly. The development team is committed to funding the infrastructure improvements that are directly attributable to this project.

Question 22

Has a traffic impact study been completed and submitted to the City?

Accepted Answer

A traffic impact study is a required component of the development review and permitting process for a project of this scale. The study evaluates existing traffic conditions, projected traffic generated by the development, impacts on surrounding roadways and intersections, and recommended mitigation measures. The traffic impact study for Town Center at Mansa Park has been completed and submitted as part of the required regulatory review process. Findings and recommended improvements are coordinated with the City of South Fulton and applicable transportation agencies.

Question 23

How will stormwater and drainage be managed to protect surrounding neighborhoods?

Accepted Answer

Stormwater management is a critical component of the site design and is governed by applicable City of South Fulton and Fulton County regulations, as well as state environmental standards. The project will incorporate engineered stormwater management systems — including detention facilities, retention areas, and drainage infrastructure — designed to control runoff rates and volumes so that post-development conditions do not increase flooding or drainage impacts on surrounding properties and neighborhoods. All stormwater plans are reviewed and approved by the appropriate regulatory authorities prior to construction.

Question 24

What utility upgrades are required and who pays for them?

Accepted Answer

A development of this scale requires coordination with water, sewer, electric, gas, and telecommunications providers to ensure adequate capacity and service. Required utility upgrades — including water and sewer line extensions, lift station improvements, or electrical infrastructure — are identified through the utility review and permitting process. On-site utility infrastructure is funded by the developer. Off-site utility upgrades required specifically to serve this development are also the developer's responsibility, as determined through coordination with the City of South Fulton, Fulton County, and the applicable utility providers. All utility plans are reviewed and approved prior to construction.

Question 25

What is the current zoning designation of the 66.62-acre site?

Accepted Answer

The site is located within the City of South Fulton and is subject to the City's zoning ordinance and land use regulations. The current zoning designation and any applicable overlay districts — including the Old National Highway Overlay District — govern what uses are permitted and what standards apply to development. Specific zoning details are available through the City of South Fulton Planning and Zoning Department.

Question 26

Does the project require a rezoning, variance, or special use permit from the City of South Fulton?

Accepted Answer

Any rezoning, variance, or special use permit required for this development is determined by the City of South Fulton Planning and Zoning Department based on the applicable zoning ordinance and the proposed uses. The development team is working through the required regulatory process with the City to ensure all necessary approvals are obtained prior to construction. Residents are encouraged to attend public hearings where these matters are considered.

Question 27

Has the City of South Fulton Planning Commission reviewed this project?

Accepted Answer

The City of South Fulton Planning Commission is the body responsible for reviewing development applications, rezoning requests, and land use matters within the City. The development team is engaged in the required review process with the City. Any Planning Commission hearings related to this project are public meetings, and residents are encouraged to attend and participate.

Question 28

Has the South Fulton City Council voted on this project?

Accepted Answer

Certain approvals — including rezonings and development agreements — require action by the South Fulton City Council. The development team is working through the required approval process with the City. City Council votes on development matters are conducted at public meetings, and residents have the opportunity to provide public comment prior to any vote.

Question 29

Does Fulton County have any jurisdiction over this development?

Accepted Answer

The project site is located within the incorporated limits of the City of South Fulton. As an incorporated municipality, the City of South Fulton has primary land use and zoning jurisdiction over development within its boundaries. Fulton County may have jurisdiction over certain matters — such as county roads, regional utilities, or environmental regulations — that overlap with the project area. The development team coordinates with all applicable governmental entities as required.

Question 30

Is a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) required or planned?

Accepted Answer

At this time, a formal Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) has not been required as part of the rezoning process. However, Town Center at Mansa Park is designed to provide significant long-term community benefits, including approximately 10,000 construction and permanent jobs, workforce housing, new parks, green space, and walking trails, restaurants, retail, and entertainment, major infrastructure improvements, increased tax revenue to support City services, and sustainable development and environmental enhancements. The project team remains committed to working collaboratively with residents, community stakeholders, and the City throughout the planning and development process.

Question 31

Will there be deed restrictions or affordability covenants on the workforce housing units?

Accepted Answer

The workforce housing component will comply with all applicable City, County, State, and financing requirements in effect at the time of development. Affordability requirements, eligibility criteria, and any applicable housing covenants will be finalized during the permitting and financing process. The goal is to provide quality housing opportunities for local workers, including teachers, first responders, healthcare professionals, municipal employees, and other essential members of the workforce.

Question 32

How will the project comply with the City's anti-displacement policies?

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is intended to revitalize the Old National Corridor while preserving opportunities for current residents to benefit from the investment. The project includes workforce housing, a mix of residential options, new employment opportunities, and expanded access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. The objective is to promote economic growth while helping existing residents live, work, and thrive within the community.

Question 33

Is the developer seeking any tax incentives, TIF financing, or public subsidies?

Accepted Answer

The project is primarily planned to be financed through private investment. Any future economic development incentives, if pursued, would be subject to public review and approval through the appropriate governmental process.

Question 34

Has a fiscal impact analysis been completed showing net tax revenue to the City?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Economic analyses prepared during the planning process estimate that Town Center at Mansa Park could generate approximately $80 million to $100 million annually in recurring local tax revenues upon full build-out — through property taxes, hotel occupancy taxes, sales taxes, business activity, tourism, and job creation. Additional fiscal analyses will continue to be refined as the project advances through the entitlement and development process.

Question 35

Will the project require any public bond financing?

Accepted Answer

No public bond financing is currently anticipated for the project.

Question 36

What public hearings are required before final approval?

Accepted Answer

Before any final approvals are granted, the project will proceed through the City's public review process, which includes: a Public Participation Meeting, a Planning Commission public hearing, a Mayor and City Council public hearing, and final City Council consideration and vote. These meetings provide opportunities for residents to review the project, ask questions, and provide public comment.

Question 37

How can residents formally comment on or object to the project?

Accepted Answer

Residents are encouraged to participate throughout the review process by attending public meetings and hearings, speaking during public comment periods, submitting written comments to the City's Planning & Community Development Department, and contacting their City Council representative regarding the project. Community input is an important part of the City's decision-making process.

Question 38

Who is the City of South Fulton point of contact for this development?

Accepted Answer

The primary point of contact is the City of South Fulton Planning & Community Development Department. The Planning Department manages the rezoning application, coordinates public meetings, and provides official information regarding the review process, hearing schedules, and opportunities for public participation. Residents may also contact their respective City Council representative for questions regarding the project.

Question 39

Will this project force long-time residents — especially seniors on fixed incomes — out of the community?

Accepted Answer

This was the most frequently raised concern at the neighborhood meeting, and it is one the development team takes seriously. To directly address displacement risk, the project includes a Community Impact Fund and a Property Tax Relief Initiative designed to protect existing homeowners — particularly seniors — from rising property tax burdens triggered by increased property values. The duration and specific terms of the relief program will be determined in coordination with the City of South Fulton.

Question 40

What does "affordable housing" actually mean for this project — and who qualifies?

Accepted Answer

Residents asked for specific clarity on what affordable housing means in the context of Mansa Park: how many units will be affordable, what income levels qualify, and whether local South Fulton residents will receive priority. These are fair and important questions. The project team is committed to providing detailed answers on the affordable housing component — including unit counts, income thresholds, and any local preference policies — as the development plan is finalized and presented at upcoming public meetings.

Question 41

What amenities are planned for children and families?

Accepted Answer

One of the most engaged community members at the meeting focused on quality-of-life improvements for families already living in South Fulton. The Mansa Park program includes family-oriented amenities — green spaces, recreational areas, and community gathering spaces — designed to improve everyday life for existing residents, not just attract new ones. Additional visuals and specific examples of family-focused features will be presented at the August 3 meeting.

Question 42

How will this project improve the surrounding neighborhood — not just add new buildings?

Accepted Answer

Residents asked a direct and important question: "What improvements will current residents actually experience?" Beyond the development itself, the project contemplates a range of community beautification efforts including city-wide holiday lighting initiatives, park renovations, public gathering spaces, and general neighborhood improvements along the corridor.

Question 43

How will seniors and residents with limited mobility access the development?

Accepted Answer

Accessibility for seniors and those with mobility challenges was raised as a concern — particularly how older residents would navigate a large mixed-use development. The project has already incorporated a shuttle transportation component into its planning to address exactly this concern. This is a meaningful benefit that should be communicated prominently in future public messaging.

Question 44

Will the development include a grocery store and everyday services — not just restaurants and retail?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Community members specifically asked for more than dining and boutique retail — they wanted grocery stores, services that seniors rely on, and everyday conveniences. A grocery component is already contemplated within the Mansa Park program. This is a major community benefit that should be communicated much earlier and more prominently in future presentations.

Question 45

Can we see the project? What will it actually look like?

Accepted Answer

One of the most common requests at the meeting was simply: "Can we see it?" Residents wanted to visualize building locations, layout, traffic flow, amenities, and the overall scale of the development. The full site plan, renderings, and a comprehensive presentation will be presented at the August 3 community meeting. You can also download the current site plan document on this website.

Question 46

Myth: "This project only benefits the developer."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is designed to create long-term benefits for the entire community — including new employment opportunities, expanded housing choices, new restaurants and retail, corporate office opportunities, infrastructure improvements, parks and public gathering spaces, healthcare services, increased opportunities for local businesses, and additional private investment throughout South Fulton.

Question 47

Myth: "The public will pay to build this project."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is planned as a privately developed project. Public improvements associated with development are reviewed through the City's normal planning and permitting process, just like other major developments.

Question 48

Myth: "This project will only increase traffic."

Accepted Answer

Traffic is one of the most important considerations in every major development. Comprehensive traffic studies are completed as part of the planning process. Recommendations are coordinated with transportation professionals and reviewing agencies before construction begins. Studies evaluate existing traffic conditions, future traffic demand, roadway improvements, signal timing, access points, turning lanes, intersection improvements, and pedestrian safety.

Question 49

Myth: "There won't be jobs for local residents."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is expected to create employment opportunities during both construction and long-term operations. The development team also intends to promote opportunities for local hiring and workforce development as the project advances — across construction, engineering, hospitality, healthcare, retail, restaurants, corporate offices, technology, property management, administration, maintenance, security, and professional services.

Question 50

Myth: "Only national companies will benefit."

Accepted Answer

The development team is committed to creating opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, contractors, suppliers, restaurants, retailers, and professional service providers. The goal is to encourage participation from businesses within South Fulton and the surrounding region whenever possible.

Question 51

Myth: "This project doesn't provide anything for residents."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is planned to provide benefits that extend well beyond the project boundaries — including new restaurants, shopping, healthcare access, parks, walking trails, public gathering spaces, recreation, employment, housing choices, improved infrastructure, and community amenities.

Question 52

Myth: "The project is only luxury housing."

Accepted Answer

The master plan is designed to include a variety of housing options to support a diverse community. A balanced housing strategy helps support professionals, families, seniors, and employees working within the community — including workforce housing, market-rate residences, and luxury residential opportunities.

Question 53

Myth: "South Fulton doesn't need another development."

Accepted Answer

South Fulton is one of Georgia's fastest-growing cities. As the community continues to grow, thoughtfully planned development can help meet future needs while improving quality of life for current residents — bringing employment opportunities, housing, healthcare, dining, shopping, infrastructure, public spaces, and business investment.

Question 54

Myth: "This project is too large."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is intentionally designed as a phased master-planned development. Development will occur over multiple phases, allowing infrastructure, public improvements, utilities, transportation, and vertical construction to progress in a coordinated and responsible manner.

Question 55

Myth: "There won't be enough infrastructure."

Accepted Answer

Infrastructure planning is one of the first priorities of the project. The project is being designed with an infrastructure-first approach to support long-term growth — covering roads, water, sewer, drainage, utilities, communications, streetscapes, sidewalks, and public infrastructure.

Question 56

Myth: "The environment won't be protected."

Accepted Answer

Environmental studies are conducted throughout the planning process. The project incorporates responsible planning for sustainable development — including stormwater management, landscaping, tree preservation where feasible, green space, walkability, modern infrastructure, and sustainable development practices.

Question 57

Myth: "Residents won't have a voice."

Accepted Answer

Community engagement is an important part of the planning process. The development team believes successful developments are built through collaboration with the community. Residents are encouraged to attend community meetings, ask questions, review project updates, provide feedback, and participate in public hearings.

Question 58

Myth: "Nothing will happen for years."

Accepted Answer

Large master-planned developments are completed in carefully coordinated phases. Each phase builds upon previous improvements while allowing infrastructure, public services, housing, and commercial development to grow together in a responsible, sequenced manner.

Question 59

Myth: "The project will increase crime."

Accepted Answer

Well-planned mixed-use developments often incorporate features intended to support safety and accessibility. The project includes planning for public safety facilities and community-serving infrastructure as part of the overall vision — including active streets, lighting, sidewalks, public gathering areas, professional property management, and coordination with public safety agencies.

Question 60

Myth: "This project only serves visitors."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is designed first and foremost to serve the residents of South Fulton. Visitors are expected to support local businesses and economic activity, but the community is planned to provide everyday benefits for people who live and work in South Fulton.

Question 61

Myth: "Property values will decrease."

Accepted Answer

Property values are influenced by many factors, and no outcome can be guaranteed. However, well-planned developments that add infrastructure, amenities, employment opportunities, and services can contribute to the long-term attractiveness and desirability of surrounding areas.

Question 62

Myth: "The community won't benefit financially."

Accepted Answer

As businesses, residents, and visitors are attracted to the area, increased economic activity can help support local businesses and contribute to the city's long-term economic vitality.

Question 63

Myth: "There won't be opportunities for small businesses."

Accepted Answer

The development team intends to encourage participation from a wide range of local and diverse businesses — including local businesses, small businesses, veteran-owned businesses, minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), and local entrepreneurs and service providers.

Question 64

Myth: "This is just another shopping center."

Accepted Answer

Town Center at Mansa Park is a master-planned town center — not simply a retail development. The goal is to create a vibrant destination where people can live, work, learn, gather, and enjoy a connected community — including residential neighborhoods, corporate offices, hospitality, retail, restaurants, healthcare, recreation, public spaces, community services, and infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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