I’m honored to step into the role of interim executive director for Gateway85 CID, an organization I’ve had the privilege of serving for nearly two decades. As director of operations, I worked alongside our board, staff and partners to help deliver transformative projects that improve transportation, public safety and beautification throughout the district. As a longtime Gwinnett County resident, I care deeply about this community and look forward to continuing our mission to make Gateway85 a vibrant, connected and economically strong business corridor.
We want to extend our sincere thanks to Emory Morsberger for his incredible leadership and vision. Emory was instrumental in launching the CID and transforming it into one of the largest and most active in Georgia. We are grateful for his years of service and wish him all the best as he pursues new opportunities.
As we look ahead, our team remains focused on building on the CID’s momentum while engaging with property owners, business leaders and local government to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Gateway85 has always been about collaboration and I’m excited to lead this next chapter of growth and progress.
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Gateway85 is in full bloom this summer, with vibrant seasonal flowers and refreshed greenery bringing new life to key corridors and entrances. From ground level to aerial views, it’s clear that the district continues to raise the bar when it comes to appearance, with some of the best-maintained interchanges in the state. These beautification efforts not only enhance the look and feel of the area but also reinforce the CID’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for businesses, employees and visitors.
As always, the CID thanks Gibson Landscape for their continued partnership and expert work throughout the district. Their attention to detail and consistent care help ensure that Gateway85 always looks its best — no matter the season.
Click each photo below to see the landscaping come to life.
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Another walkability project is officially in the books! Construction is now complete on the new 1,000-foot sidewalk along Financial Drive, connecting Brook Hollow Parkway to Jimmy Carter Boulevard and closing a key pedestrian gap in the district.
This project is part of Gateway85’s ongoing effort to make the district safer and more accessible for everyone who lives, works or does business here. With more than 20 miles of sidewalks, crossings and pedestrian lighting installed to date, the CID remains committed to improving mobility and connectivity across the corridor.
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Jimmy Carter Boulevard is the heart of the Gateway85 district — a vital economic corridor that connects businesses, commuters and communities. But it also faces growing challenges, from heavy traffic and outdated infrastructure to limited mobility and redevelopment opportunities. That’s why Gwinnett County, supported by Gateway85 CID, is leading the development of a bold Small Area Plan to guide the corridor’s growth over the next 20 years.
The plan focuses on three key themes: redevelopment, including affordable housing and support for small businesses; infrastructure upgrades to improve safety and mobility; and placemaking that reflects the area’s diversity and strengthens its identity.
The planning process is now in Phase 1: Initial Planning, continuing through summer 2025. The County hosted its first public meeting on July 17, with more engagement opportunities coming later this year. A final plan is expected by summer 2026, with adoption anticipated that fall.
Gateway85 is proud to support this effort and encourages all business and property owners to get involved.
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For more than 40 years, Engelman’s Bakery has been baking up success from its 50,000-square-foot facility on Best Friend Road in the heart of the Gateway85 district. What began as a small, family-run operation has grown into a regional wholesale powerhouse, producing everything from challah and hoagie buns to more than 20 gluten-free varieties. Today, Engelman’s products can be found everywhere from Mercedes-Benz Stadium to some of Atlanta’s most beloved restaurants.
With deep roots, a commitment to quality and a logistically strategic location, Engelman’s has become a go-to partner for foodservice providers across the Southeast.
Continue reading on the CID website.
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The Georgia Public Service Commission has officially approved Georgia Power’s 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) — a major milestone that sets the course for how the company will meet the state’s growing energy needs through 2030 and beyond.
With an estimated 8,500 megawatts of load growth expected over the next six years, the plan outlines key investments in energy generation, transmission infrastructure and customer-focused programs that support business continuity, resiliency and grid reliability. For companies in Gateway85, that means greater confidence in service during peak demand and a stronger foundation for future growth.
We’re grateful to our partners at Georgia Power, including Deven Cason and Kelley Balkcom, for keeping the CID informed and engaged throughout this process. Their ongoing collaboration helps ensure our district remains a prime destination for investment and business development.
Learn more about the 2025 IRP here.
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Norcross Welcomes New Economic Development Director |
The City of Norcross recently welcomed David Versel as its new Economic Development Director. With more than 20 years of experience in real estate, planning and public-private collaboration across 250 communities in 30 states, Versel brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of fostering strong, balanced economies. A Georgia Tech graduate and former founder of a national consulting firm, he has held senior roles in both the public and private sectors. Versel’s expertise and collaborative approach make him a strong fit to advance Norcross’ economic goals while preserving the city’s unique charm.
Read more here.
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Peachtree Corners Launches 24/7 AI Assistant to Improve City Access |
Peachtree Corners has launched CurioCity, an AI-powered chat tool developed with national leader Citibot, to make local government more accessible, responsive and transparent. Available 24/7 on the city’s website, CurioCity helps residents find information, submit service requests and connect with departments in real time. Designed to serve the city’s diverse community, it delivers fast, accurate and inclusive support across desktop and mobile devices. This launch makes Peachtree Corners one of the first cities in Georgia to adopt Citibot’s innovative engagement platform, furthering its commitment to tech-forward, resident-centered service.
Read more about CurioCity here.
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Back to School Kickoff Bash
July 26, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Best Friend Park Gym
Learn more here.
Movie Monday: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
July 28, 1:30 & 6:30 p.m.
Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center
Learn more here.
Cook, Eat, Love!
August 1, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
OneStop Norcross
Learn more here.
Traditional Networking at The NETT
August 8, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce
Learn more here.
Coffee and Conversations with the Council
August 12, 9 – 10 a.m.
Council for Quality Growth
Learn more and register here.
The Wiz
August 14 – September 7
Aurora Theater
Learn more and purchase tickets here.
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Thank You to Our Community Partners! |
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Gateway85 CID is 14-square mile district along the I-85 corridor about one mile north of I-285. This area contributes over $16 billion of Georgia’s and Gwinnett County’s economy.
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