At the Gwinnett Chamber’s On Topic: State of the Region, ARC Executive Director & CEO Anna Roach highlighted Gwinnett’s role as an economic powerhouse and its significant contributions to the region’s growth. She emphasized that Gwinnett is instrumental in helping ARC achieve its vision for Metro Atlanta.
ARC leads regional planning efforts in community development, natural resources, and transportation funding while also managing critical services such as aging support, homeland security, leadership development, and research and analytics. Through 2028, $5.2 billion is allocated for regional projects, with Gwinnett set to receive $484 million. Key investments include the widening of Sugarloaf Parkway and the development of the Norcross LCI Greenway.
Other notable initiatives include:
• $30 million for senior services, with $4 million allocated to Gwinnett.
• $1 million in Livable Community Grants, including the 2024 award for the Jimmy Carter Blvd. master plan.
• Expansion of housing opportunities across multiple price points and styles.
• Significant progress in water conservation, with Metro Atlanta reducing per capita water usage by 30% since 2020.
The region continues to experience tremendous growth:
• Metro Atlanta is home to 6.1 million residents, making it the 6th largest metro area in the U.S..
• Gwinnett’s population is expected to grow 25% by 2050, reaching 1.7 million.
• The regional job base has surpassed 3 million, an all-time high.
• Gwinnett’s median income is $88K, exceeding state and national averages.
• Median home prices have surged to $410K as of January 2025, reflecting a 60% increase since 2020.
• Job growth in Gwinnett stands at 6%, outpacing the 4% national average, with key industries in logistics, healthcare, construction, and arts and entertainment.
Looking ahead, ARC’s priorities include addressing housing affordability, infrastructure expansion, and job growth. Freight and logistics remain a focal point, with planned investments to support the region’s thriving business environment, including ensuring compliance with federal requirements for 18-wheeler truck parking.
Roach also recognized key Gwinnett leaders serving on ARC’s board, including Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, Greg Cantrell, Mayor Mike Mason, and Kerry Armstrong.
The next On Topic luncheon will feature insights from the Georgia Ports Authority. To learn more and register, visit GwinnettChamber.org.
