The document discusses an upcoming 600-foot extension to the runway at Athens-Ben Epps Airport. The current 5,522 foot runway is too short for some corporate and charter aircraft to safely takeoff at maximum weight. The $17 million extension project aims to improve safety and allow heavier payloads. The airport currently supports 172 local jobs and $20.6 million in annual economic output. It is important for supporting local businesses and the University of Georgia. The extension will enhance economic development by accommodating more aircraft.

1. Economic Development Quarterly
Airport Runway
Extension Update
Kroger Marketplace
Are you
AthensMade?Spring 2014

2. STATE OF ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY ECONOMY
1,500 new jobs for 2014
Employmentisexpectedtoincreaseby1.7% asprojectedby theTerryCollegeofBusiness,
UniversityofGeorgia
Top sectors for job creation
Manufacturing
Caterpillarwillbeadding1,100jobsover
thenext5years.
Healthcare
Athens’healthcarerolewillexpandasa
medicalservicecenterfornortheastGA.
Biomedical
UGA’smedicalschoolcampus
establishmentwillfurtherdevelopmentof
biomedicalindustries.
HighTech
UGA’sCollegeofEngineeringwillenhance
entrepreneurialdevelopmentandhelp
recruithightechcompanieslikerecently
expandedEthicon,Inc.
Cost of living
8.3% less than the
national average
2.7% less than the
9.6
2.5
23.5
2.3159.1
2.7
6.2
11.9
4.7 2.3
2.8
7.5
Accommodation andFoodServices Construction Education Services
Finance andInsurance HealthCare and Social Assistance Manufacturing
ProfessionalServices PublicAdministration Retail Trade
SupportServices Transportation Wholesale Trade
Other Services-
Employment by industry
SOURCE:GeorgiaDepartmentofLabor,U.S.DepartmentofLabor,BureauofLaborStatistics, U.S.Census,TerryCollegeofBusinessUniversityofGeorgia
Average weekly wage
$715
Ranked8thhighestoftop14metropolitanareas
Lowest unemployment
in state of Georgia
5.4%
UnemploymentforthestateofGeorgiais7.4%
Athens

3. 3 3
CONTENTS Spring 2014
ON OUR COVER:
Georgia Theatre
The Georgia Theatre is a
prominent music venue
in Athens, Georgia,
located in an old cinema
that began as the YMCA in
1889 and later became the
Elite Theater movie house
and Majestic Hotel and
later the Masonic Temple.
It also served as the
United Methodist Church in the 60’s until 1977 when it was turned
into a concert hall. Many prominent acts from the early music of
Athens performed at the Theatre, including a range of
folk, popular and country acts. The Police played a show at the
Theatre in 1979, on their first American tour.
In subsequent years, it has been
the host to many shows
including shows featuring
members of R.E.M., Widespread
Panic, Beck, Warren Zevon,
Umphreys McGee, and Dave
Matthews Band. The Derek
Trucks Band recorded their
2004 concert album Live at
Georgia Theatre at the venue.
On the morning of June 19, 2009, a major
fire erupted in the Georgia Theatre,
inflicting severe damage to the building,
including a roof collapse. The Georgia
Theatre underwent renovations in 2010
and 2011 and reopened August 1, 2011.
The newly renovated Georgia Theater is
designed to be a concert venue with a
state-of-the-art sound system and
numerous acoustic improvements;
together with improved seating, two
balconies, and an open air roof area with
a full bar and comfortable patio seating.
1953
IN EVERY ISSUE:
Letter from the Director 4
Quarter Rewind 5
Featured Property 14
2009
Meet the Staff
Our department may be small but we would like to
introduce to you the folks who make it possible.
Caterpillar
There’s a new kid in town and he’s ready to make new
friends.
Airport Runway
Extension Update
Increased safety and better efficiency are the top
goals for this project.
Are you
AthensMade?
This new campaign hopes to promote business in
Athens and the people behind it.
VIP Visitors
The EDD hosted 32 International Consulates gave
them a small taste of Athens, literally.
Kroger Marketplace
The landscaping of northeast Athens is beginning to
change, for the better.
Contributors
Marcie Hunter
Jeff Montgomery
Denise Plemmons
5
Join us online!
#AthensGAUSA
6
8
11
12
13
Contact the Department
Athens-Clarke County Economic Development Department
246 W. Hancock Ave., Athens, GA 30601
706-613-3233
www.AthensBusiness.org
1889

4. 4 4
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT www.AthensBusiness.org 706-613-3233
4
A
s we welcome spring, the season of rebirth
provides an opportunity for reflection, and we
certainly have a lot to be proud of in Athens.
The last few months have been very busy at the
Economic Development Department. Companies from all over
the globe are considering Athens as their new home. Several of
our existing industries are planning expansions, and business
continues to grow. Caterpillar met their goal and began
production in October. The Ethicon development has gone
vertical. This new industry growth, the growth of existing
industry, and the presence of public sector jobs in our area
have contributed to the area’s unemployment rate dropping to
levels not seen in over five years. We continue to have one of
the lowest unemployment rates in the State.
But this is no time for pause; Athens is in the midst of a process
of securing our rightful place on the list of economic
development powerhouses. We must continue to attack every
opportunity with a sense of urgency! During the recession
many companies made the strategic decision to hold on to
their cash, and are now in a position to make capital
investments. It is time to capitalize on this pent up demand.
The true measure of economic development is economic
growth – new wealth creation within the community. We are a
community of creators, of makers, of doers; the success of the
business community is the success of the populous. We all
participate in this city’s prosperity, and the long hours and
dedication to this community are what make Athens-Clarke
County a wonderful place to live and do business.
The Economic Development Department stands ready to help if
you are considering an expansion, consolidation, or new
venture. We have resources available and access to many
professionals that can assist you and we are only a phone call
away. Find us on any of your favorite social media outlets, and
become part of the conversation. Athens is open for business!
Thus, in all these ways, we will transmit this City not only, not less, but greater and more
beautiful than it was transmitted to us.” – Athenian Oath
Letter from the Director
Ryan Moore, Director

5. 5 5
Spring 2014
5
Meet the Staff: Ryan Moore, Director
Meet the Staff: Denise Plemmons, Program Support Analyst
Ryan Moore came to our department from Effingham County Industrial Development Authority.
He “played an integral role” in bringing more than 600 jobs and $175 million in community
investment to that area including bringing a Portuguese manufacturing plant to the area, the
company’s first in the U.S. He also directed the development of more than 4,000 acres in
Effingham County.
Ryan received his Economics Degree from Armstrong Atlantic State University and is a Certified
Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP).
In his spare time Ryan enjoys racing his KTM bike. Ryan loves to travel and indulge in the variety
of culinary experiences each locale has to offer. He and his wife, Heather; a teacher at Whitehead
Elementary, reside in Athens.
Denise Plemmons is in charge of managing the administrative and public relations
aspects of the department, including website administration, social media, and
special events.
Denise has been a resident of Athens-Clarke County since 1997 when she relocated
from Acworth to attend the University of Georgia. There she was a member of the
Redcoat Marching Band and earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.
Denise has a passionate heart for animal welfare and is a board member for the
Madison Oglethorpe Animal Shelter. She loves the theater, art, and family fun
which makes Athens a great place for her family. She and her husband, Andy; the
Media Specialist at David C. Barrow Elementary, and children, Alora and Anderson,
live in Winterville, GA.
Q U A R T E R R E W I N D
F A S T F O R W A R D
New Projects 6
Clients Hosted 5
Existing Industry Visits 4
4/14-20/2014 Manufacturing Appreciation Week
4/23/2014 Industry Appreciation Dinner
5/1-2/2014 Perspectives on Progress Tour

6. 6 6
A
thens’ signature colors of red and black have
taken a bit of a twist, and added yellow to the
mix, thanks to Caterpillar, the new kid in town.
Since first discussions of bringing the
international manufacturer to the Classic City, Athens citizens
welcomed the plant with open arms.
Caterpillar Operations Manager Todd Henry, who relocated to
Athens from Raleigh, N.C., recognized the outpouring of
support from the local community.
“The government and local officials have been really great to
work with and helped us keep our project timeline on plan,”
said Henry. “Even at the state level, everywhere I go, it seems
people are so excited about Caterpillar coming to Athens and
expanding our presence in the state of Georgia.”
And, rightfully so. The newly constructed manufacturing
facility, which will produce mini hydraulic excavators and
small track-type tractors, broke ground March 2012 and
quickly became the largest private employer in Athens and the
biggest economic development project in the state since
2006. The new $200 million facility has taken root in an
industrial plot of land that had been unoccupied for more
than 30 years. Along with its million-square-foot plant,
Caterpillar brings 1,400 jobs to the Athens area. An estimated
25 to 30 suppliers are projected to join Caterpillar in the
Athens area, establishing an additional 2,800 jobs for the
community. To top it all off, the economic impact generated
by Caterpillar is valued between $1 billion and $3 billion.
Selecting the Orkin/IBM site in Bogart for Caterpillar was no
easy feat, but has since reaped many benefits.
6
Mayor Nancy Denson at the Athens Caterpillar Plant Grand Opening on
October, 31, 2013.
brings metamorphosis to Athens job market
By Marcie Hunter
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT www.AthensBusiness.org 706-613-3233

7. 7 7
“The site in Athens gave us the physical footprint and
infrastructure needed to support this facility,” Henry said.
“In addition, the state of Georgia has a very positive
business climate and, along with local officials, provided a
very competitive package to support the complex nature of
locating a project like this from Japan to the U.S.”
According to the Athens-Banner Herald, $17.6 million in
property and infrastructure improvements were pledged by
the local government along with an estimated $24 million in
tax abatements over 20 years.
Athens government officials and community leaders, along
with their Oconee County counterparts, worked together
tirelessly to establish Caterpillar in the Classic City.
“(The entire community) did whatever it took. We were all
there to do what we needed to do,” recalled Athens Mayor
Nancy Denson. “We had support from getting facts and
figures together for the company from both school systems,
and St. Mary’s and Athens Regional hospitals. Local
industries supported us by providing information on the
workforce and their experience with the workforce in
Athens.”
At the 2012 Georgia Economic Outlook series, Gov. Nathan
Deal addressed the importance Caterpillar’s move to the
peach state.
“(The Caterpillar plant) is an excellent example of the work
that our Department of Economic Development is doing,”
Deal said. “And I tell you that one of the characteristics of
this facility is the fact that this is not just the relocation of
the plant from one part of the United States to another. It is
the relocation of a plant in Japan to the mainland, and part
of the mainland that was chosen was the state of Georgia.”
The move to Georgia has the benefit to Caterpillar of
putting its products closer to its customers in North and
South America. Caterpillar is the world’s leading
manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel
and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-
electric locomotives.
Another benefit that Caterpillar is seeing is Georgia’s Quick
Start custom workforce training. Working through Athens
Technical College, Quick Start is training Georgia workers in
the full spectrum of Caterpillar’s needs – including those
working in the office and production employees.
Caterpillar is also leveraging the location’s excellent
proximity to two major interstates and its current
relationship with the Georgia Ports, which its existing
operations in Georgia currently use.
While the new facility is gaining state and nation-wide
attention, its new hometown holds the most pride of all.
“The true Southern hospitality and charm is very evident
with the people in the Athens area,” Henry noted. “I have
three Rolodexes full of business cards with people who
always greet me with the same sentiment: ‘How can I help?’
And they mean it!”
7
Manufacturing is in the top five
largest industry sectors in Athens-
Clarke county. Manufacturing
employees contribute to the
economy by dining in local
restaurants, shopping in local
establishments, buying gas for their
vehicles, and paying ad valorem
taxes on their homes.
Elementary 5.4% ——
Post Grad Studies 9.6% —
College Grad– 4 yr 13.2% —
College Grad- 2 yr 5.1% —
Some College 25.3% ——
High School Grad/GED 29.1% ——
Some High School 12.3% —
Job Creation
Capital Investment
Education of Labor Force
Manufacturingjobs$54K
MostClarkeCountyjobs$39K
Manufacturingemployeesin
ACChaveacombinedincome
of$329,331,756whichis12.6%
ofourtotalwages
Taxes
Average Wage
additional
jobsare created in support industries
throughout the county
For every
job created by
manufacturing,
The industrial sector
of ACC had a
taxable value
that accounted for
For every $1 of capital investment
in manufacturing in Athens-Clarke County
$1.35is added to the local economy
SOURCE:Athens-ClarkeCountyUnifiedGovernment

8. 8 8
W
hen a business is scouting for its new
location, one large consideration is the
accessibility of the community to their
business. Transportation systems (including
air, rail, highways, and waterways) connect communities,
businesses, people, and provide critical support functions.
Airports are essential to its community's transportation and
economic infrastructure, supporting its diversified industries
including technology, manufacturing, distribution, tourism, and
agriculture. These businesses utilize airports to transport
employees, customers, vendors and goods, which spur economic
development. Athens-Ben Epps Airport connects Athens’s
citizens and businesses to the rest of our state, our nation, and
our global economy.
Athens-Ben Epps Airport is the only commercially serviced
airport in northeast Georgia. Athens Airport is currently the
busiest small commercial airport in the state of Georgia with 105
flights per day. The next busiest comparable airport is Augusta,
Georgia with 69 flights per day. Our airport also supports aerial
inspections, air cargo, aerial agricultural spraying, flight training,
military exercises, search and rescue, aerial photography and
surveys, real estate tours, and aerial banner towing.
Most Athenians are unaware of the economic impact that
Athens-Ben Epps Airport has on our community. Airport
Manager, Tim Beggerly, says that on any given day we have
corporate planes sitting on the ramp. Athens-Ben Epps Field
supports many local businesses including Albuquerque Redi-Mix,
Baldor Electric, and Cessna Aircraft Company. Bank of America
and Coca-Cola Enterprises regularly use the airport to conduct
business operations in the area. It plays a vital role in supporting
the region with 172 jobs with an annual payroll of $5,662,100,
and $20,646,900 in economic output for the local and regional
economies.
The University of Georgia is a frequent user of our airport for
athletic teams and guest speakers and entertainers for university
events. Additionally, UGA alumni account for a significant
amount of activity at our airport during home football and
basketball seasons. The presence of the University of Georgia,
together with the expanding corporate base in Clarke County
and the surrounding area, has resulted in demand for additional
runway beyond the current 5,522 feet.
Due to the current length of our runway, many corporate or
charter aircraft are departing under their maximum gross takeoff
weight simply because the runway is not long enough to safely
takeoff at their maximum weight. A $17 million runway
expansion to add 600 feet to the runway is in progress at Athens-
Ben Epps Airport and will result in making it safer for planes
takeoff and land while allowing them to carry heavier load. “In
case a pilot has issues at takeoff or landing, they have additional
runway to keep it on the ground,” Beggerly said.
It will also enhance community and economic development
potential by meeting the travel needs of Corporations,
Universities, and visitors to our community. Beggerly added,
“When companies are looking at cities for where they want to
build, they are looking at their airport with everything else. All
the pieces of the puzzle may be in place but if they can’t get their
airplanes in and out of the airport it may be a deciding factor
that they go somewhere else. They spend millions and millions
of dollars on these aircrafts because time is money to companies
and if they can’t get in and out quickly they might go somewhere
else.”
Construction jobs are increased as well as the purchase of goods
and services as Athens business and leisure visitors, who
regularly arrive on commercial airlines and general aviation
aircraft, spend money for lodging, food, other transportation,
shopping, recreation, and entertainment. The airport is also
preparing to support cargo planes by training staff and
purchasing additional equipment as they currently do not handle
much cargo but anticipate that it will increase due to the
expansion.
The project is composed of 3 phases with Phase 1 being the
grading and drainage which consists of installing 1.7 million cubic
Leaving on a Jet Plane
Football game weekends alone in 2013 accounted for 3,362 flights.
8
Leaving on a Jet PlaneWill be much easier after the $17 Million Runway Extension at Athens-Ben Epps Airport
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT www.AthensBusiness.org 706-613-3233

9. 9 9
Twenty-one industry project managers from the Georgia Department of
Economic Development and Georgia Power recently visited the Athens area as
part of a two-day bus tour of the region on September 6, 2013.
“Project Managers serve as the first point of contact for new industry looking to
locate in the state of Georgia, so it’s important for them to experience a
community’s cultural amenities first hand,” Ryan Moore, director of the Athens-
Clarke County economic development department said in a statement.
While in Athens, the group went to a reception sponsored by the University of
Georgia and dinner on The Classic Center Theatre stage with entertainment by
Circle Ensemble Theatre and the band Saint Francis. The Athens-Clarke County
Economic Development Department and Georgia Power coordinated to provide
the dinner and
entertainment. The trip also included a discussion with Mayor Nancy Denson on
Athens-Clarke County as a location of choice for various industries and
educational leaders spoke to the group about the Athens’ workforce and
educational assets. It also included a bus tour of the area.
“It was so great to work with the Classic Center to host this event,” recalls Ryan
Moore, Economic Development Department Director. “One phone and they led
this event to perfection.”
The regional bus tour, organized by Georgia Power, visited several northeast
Georgia cities, including Gainesville, Cornelia and Hartwell.
yards of fill dirt to even out the slope, water detention, and
quality control ponds, and an airport perimeter road. This phase
was to be completed by spring but with the unseasonably high
amounts of rain and the cold weather the project has been set
back several months and expected to be completed in the fall of
2014. This phase is estimated at costing $12 million.
Phase 2 consists of paving the runway extension, installing new
LED runway lights. Phase 3 is a new instrument landing system
and new approach lighting system. Phase 3 is expected to be
completed by summer of 2015. The estimated cost for these
phases is $4.5 million.
As part of this project there is a tree management plan where
the airport will be planting trees to replace the ones that were
removed for the expansion. And the large lot off Winterville
Road where fill dirt was removed for the project is permitted to
become a nursery.
Funding for this project is a combination of Federal Aviation
Administration at 95%, State of Georgia Aviation Programs at
2.5%, and the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County at
2.5%. The FAA’s 95% portion is funded as part of the Aviation
Trust Fund which receives its funding through excise taxes
collected on the sale of Jet fuel and airline tickets.
This expansion with allow a Boeing 737 to leave with a full gas tank and to carry a
full load of 90-200 passengers where now they can only carry 50-70 passengers.
This means UGA will be able to take only one plane as opposed to three when
their football team travels. The same goes for other teams that travel to UGA.
9Spring 2014
Athens Part of Regional Tour for Industry Leaders
The group enjoyed dinner on the Classic Center stage and a surprise
musical performance by Circle Ensemble Theatre.
Rope Roberts of Georgia Power welcomes the group in the Classic
Center atrium.

10. 10 10
10 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT www.AthensBusiness.org 706-613-3233
The Athens-Clarke County Unified Government recently formalized a
strategic alliance with the City of Greater Geelong (pronounced jill-
ong) in Victoria, Australia to explore mutual interests in the life
science field as well as other opportunities for economic
development and research.
In February, Athens-Clarke County District 8 Commissioner Andy
Herod visited Geelong while on a professional trip to Australia.
During his visit, Herod signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Geelong Mayor Darryn Lyons to acknowledge the
strategic relationship between the two cities.
“Athens-Clarke County and the City of Greater Geelong make for a
natural fit as partners,” said Herod. “Both have major universities,
both are known for their arts and cultural opportunities and events,
both have growing life sciences opportunities, and both
governments were even created by unifying communities in the
1990s. This Memorandum of Understanding is designed to
encourage bold ideas and vision to achieve its goals, so both
communities signed it with the understanding that this is designed to
be an active partnership.”
The relationship between the two cities initially grew from talks
between the University of Georgia and Deakin University, whose
campus is located in Geelong. In November 2013, a delegation from
Geelong traveled to Athens-Clarke County to meet with Mayor
Nancy Denson, District 10 Commissioner Mike Hamby, Athens-Clarke
County Unified Government staff, and the University of Georgia to
discuss commercial opportunities in bio science and other
partnership opportunities.
Geelong Deputy Mayor Bruce Harwood attended this meeting and
submitted the preliminary draft of the Memorandum of
Understanding to Athens-Clarke County for review upon his return to
Australia.
“We are enthusiastic about the many ways this strategic relationship
will benefit both of our communities as we explore ways to share
knowledge, ideas, and resources,” said Athens-Clarke County Mayor
Nancy Denson. “The economic development and research
opportunities are particularly exciting for both Athens-Clarke County
and Geelong.”
Among the goals set forth by both communities in the MoU are the
desire to run an informational exchange program, foster the pursuit
of opportunities for life science collaboration and economic
development, support increasing employment in the field of life
sciences, and develop close working relationships between the cities’
local governments.
“Although geographically opposite, Geelong and Athens have a lot of
similarities, not the least of which is a strong life sciences presence in
the worldwide marketplace,” said Athens-Clarke County Economic
Development Director Ryan Moore. “The Economic Development
Department is vigilant in seeking out and implementing relationships
that can enhance our global outreach efforts. This partnership is an
opportunity to showcase the international appeal of Athens-Clarke
County. The Geelong team has been great to work with, and we look
forward to a mutually beneficial long-term relationship.”
The MoU was approved by the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and
Commission at their February 4, 2014 meeting and is effective for
three years.
“We look forward to actively working with Athens-Clarke County for
the mutual benefit of both cities,” said Greater Geelong Mayor
Darryn Lyons.
The City of Greater Geelong is a city of 245,000 located near
Melbourne on the southeastern coast of Australia in the state of
Victoria on Port Phillip Bay. It is the home of the public Deakin
University and its student population of over 44,000. For more
information about Geelong, visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au.

11. 11 11
11Spring 2014
M
ost Americans know that R.E.M., the B-52’s,
Kim Basinger, Herschel Walker, and Hugh
Acheson began their fame in our legendary
city of Athens but very few know that
Evoshield, Zaxby’s, and even Jittery Joe’s did too. “We are quick to
praise music and the arts in Athens but it is time to celebrate and
recognize our businesses too. We have amazing startups and even
bigger businesses that will soon be iconic and are proud to be
Athens made. Athens has an incredible entrepreneurial spirit and
we need to broadcast that to the world,” says Jim Flannery,
Project Director for Four Athens, who helped develop and
implement the idea behind Athensmade.
The idea for Athensmade, which no one can really pinpoint its
origins but spurred from conversations between local business
owners, is simple; create a logo, put it on anything made in
Athens, publicize to the world what our great town can produce.
Whether it is a product, a service, or even a person, together all
these things help shape Athens into the eclectic community it is.
These individuals who have chosen to make Athens home have
created vibrant, innovative, and game-changing companies that
provide thousands of jobs for citizens, stimulate the local, regional,
and national economy, and provide the foundation of what makes
Athens flourish.
“There are some amazing companies that started right here in
Athens,” said Michael Ripps, co-owner of Jittery Joe’s and
Athensmade supporter. “Their stories need to be told.”
The goal of Athensmade is to get Athens entrepreneurs to rally
around their shared love of our city and our entrepreneurial
culture, help the city attract new entrepreneurs, and also build
community among existing businesses. Flannery hopes this
campaign will help to empower our citizens to export their own
product knowing that they have their community behind them for
support. “Failure is part of the process but we have a community
that will help you recognize those failures and help you learn from
them,” continues Flannery. Athensmade hopes to help others
recognize Athens as a great place to live, work, and play.
Athensmade is not the first grassroots branding campaign.
Boulder, Colorado developed “Colorado- Entrepreneurial by
Nature” in October of 2012. More than 300 companies have
joined their movement since its launch. They have experienced a
higher per capita and more high tech jobs. AthensMade.com lists
12 companies but that list is expected to grow significantly as word
spreads.
Joining this movement is easy. Head to Athensmade.com and
download the logo (it comes in a number of different colors and
sizes). Display it proudly on your company or personal website. If
you feel proud about living here, working here, to be Athensmade,
and support entrepreneurship please join the movement.
Are you ?
Can a logo help create jobs? Athensmade says YES!
The Economic Development Department signs MOU with the
Development Authority of Athens-Clarke County
The Department and the Authority inked a deal that will allow for more collaboration in attracting new development and supporting
existing industry. Per the agreement, the Department will provide Economic Development Services to the Authority that include
marketing and administration for the Authority. In exchange, the Authority will make funds available to the Department for Economic
Development purposes on an annual basis. The agreement was originally contemplated in the Ordinance which created the department.
"The agreement provides a mechanism by which the Department and the Authority can work more closely together and leverage each
organization's capabilities most effectively. Economic Development does not happen in a vacuum and this type of collaborative effort is
needed in order to ensure that Athens-Clarke County can maximize its effectiveness in attracting capital investment and creating jobs
within the community. The Authority is an asset to the Department's efforts, and we look forward to providing them service and working
together for the benefit of this community." said Ryan Moore.

12. 12 12
12 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT www.AthensBusiness.org 706-613-3233
International Dignitaries visit Athens
On March 20, 2014, 29 officials of the Atlanta Consular Corps
stopped in Athens as part of their 2014 International VIP Tour. The
Atlanta Consular Corps is an association of officials appointed by
foreign governments to represent their country in Georgia. Their
duties are to assist their nationals living and visiting the Southeast
and to promote economic, commercial, scientific, and cultural
relations between the country they represent and their host region.
The consular offices and/or trade representation from 70 nations
comprise the Atlanta Consular Corps. The International VIP Tour
exposes the guests to communities they may be unfamiliar with and
broadens their knowledge of what Georgia has to offer international
businesses.
The Athens-Clarke County Economic Development Department
coordinated with the University of Georgia to host this group’s visit.
Their first stop was to enjoy a sampling of coffee at Jittery Joe’s. Co-
owners, Michael Ripps and Bob Googe, welcomed the guests and
shared their personal stories of expanding this community coffee to
a nationally recognized brew. Master roaster, Charlie Mustard,
described the roasting process and allowed the group to experience
the olfactory journey the coffee beans venture through before their
final stop in your cup. The group participated in a taste test of three
different coffee blends. Votes were cast using a single coffee bean
per vote. The winning blend would become the Economic
Development Department’s new co-branded Jittery Joe’s Coffee
blend. The brew with the most beans was a blend of beans from
Columbia and Huehuetenango, Guatemala to be called Athena-
International Blend.
"It was wonderful to welcome the Consular Corps to Jittery Joe's,”
shares Ripps. “It was a great opportunity to show that Athens is a
terrific place to live and work. The fact that these ambassadors
participated in choosing the new EDD Athena blend was the
highlight, helping create another Athens product to share with
visitors from around the globe."
After a dinner hosted by UGA at the Special Collections Library which
included a welcome by Mayor Denson, remarks from UGA President
Morehead, Georgia Department of Economic Development
Commissioner Chris Carr, and Consul General Steve Brereton , the
group concluded their evening with the opportunity to experience
Athens’ infamous night life on the rooftop of the Georgia Theatre.
Famous locals including Georgia Theatre owner, Wilmont Greene;
artist and sculptor, Stan Mullins; ACC Commissioners, Mike Hamby,
Kathy Hoard, Jerry NeSmith, Jared Bailey, Kelly Girtz; ACC Assistant
Manager, Blaine Williams, shared their love for Athens and the
opportunities it presents.
“This has been a remarkable opportunity for Athens
to share its appeal to this distinguished group of
international leaders,” says Economic Development
Department Director, Ryan Moore. “Our
department is proud to have been part of the VIP
Tour and continues to position Athens as a world
class destination for Foreign Direct Investment.” To view more of the VIP Tour, join the
conversation on Twitter: #GAVIPTOUR
Jittery Joe’s co-owners, Bob Googe and Michael Ripps welcome our
guests to the Roaster.
Master Roaster, Charlie Mustard, shows the group the coffee roasting process.
The Atlanta Consular Corps had 28 different countries represented
during their 2014 VIP Tour.

13. 13 13
Coming Soon…
@Hull Road and Hwy 29
13
For leasing information, please contact:
Shannon Shuman Martin, Retail Leasing Advisors, LLC
www.retailleasingadvisors.net
Direct: (404) 312-4305
Coming Soon…
@Hull Road and Hwy 29
N
ortheast Athens is starting to see the beginnings
of their new Kroger Marketplace shopping
center, Trail Creek Village, as the ground has
been leveled and the land begins to take shape
for its new home. But the 123,000 sq ft state-of-the-art grocery
store is not the only new building, there will be 30,000 sq ft of
shop space available for lease, 5 outparcels, as well as a Kroger
Fuel station. The Landlord has signed leases with Great Clips and
Lee Nails and is negotiating with many tenants that are common
in grocery anchored shopping centers, such as restaurants and
retail service tenants including medical and office. The developer
is Barak Zukerman with Cideco Development, who has worked on
the project for two years. The development at Hull Road and U.S.
29 North is going to change the nature of that part of town.
For far too long northeast Athens has been underserved which is
in part why Kroger chose this site. With only a handful of fast
food restaurants, the students and staff of Athens Technical
College, workers at the nearby Athena Industrial Park, as well as
residents of Madison and Jackson County, have had to travel to
the Barnett Shoals Road area for diverse dining options as well as
grocery shopping. Shannon Martin, with Retail Leasing Advisors,
who is in charge of leasing the remaining property, shared that
the closest direct grocery competitor outside of Athens is 20
miles north. This development will not only bring its own tenants
but it will ignite a new growth for that area.
So what can we expect with this humungous state-of-the-art
Kroger Marketplace? “Quality household merchandise, décor,
clothing, kitchenware, small appliances and a greater selection of
items typically found in Kroger,” says Martin. There will also be
more organic options and a larger produce selection. The Kroger
Company website boasts that the Kroger Marketplace is “your
one-stop shopping destination”. It also lists the following
departments: Baby World, Bed & Bath, Deli & Bakery, Fresh
Flowers, Fred Meyer Jewelers®, Gourmet Cheese, Health &
Beauty, Home Fashion, Kitchen Place, Toys. “The amenities
offered by the Kroger Marketplace will provide residents with a
variety of new options and a convenient shopping experience,”
says Glynn Jenkins, director of communications and public
relations for Kroger’s Atlanta Division. “In addition to its
convenience, the store will employ 300 Kroger associates,
creating 200 new jobs in Athens, and we are proud to be a part
of this community.”
Kroger is not releasing an opening date but it is expected to be
late summer or early fall of this year.
Follow development and leasing
activity on twitter: #trailcreekathens
Spring 2014

14. 14 14
14
Featured Building
Ground Level
Space Available: 33,190
SF
Rental Rate: $12 /SF/Year
Space Type: Creative/Loft
Lease Type: NNN
Metro Level
Space Available: 10,122 SF
Rental Rate: $12 /SF/Year
Space Type: Creative/Loft
Lease Type: NNN
First Floor-Office
Space Available: 18,300 SF
Rental Rate: $19.50 /SF/Year
Space Type: Office Building
Min. Divisible: 3,000 SF
Lease Type: NNN
1st-Restaurant
Space Available: 5,500 SF
Rental Rate: $19.50 /SF/Year
Space Type: Restaurant
Lease Type: NNN
Second Floor
Space Available: 28,204 SF
Rental Rate: $19.50 /SF/Year
Space Type: Office Building
Lease Type: NNN
Press Place
Incredibly unique opportunity in downtown Athens with 33,000sf of space, most with 24
foot ceiling heights and street access to parking, pedestrians and bus service.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT www.AthensBusiness.org 706-613-3233

15. 15 15
15
292.587
acres
Featured Acreage
Athena Industrial Park: Christian Tract
Transportation
The property is located in the Athena Industrial Park which is
home to a variety of users manufacturing and distribution
users. The property consists of 292.587 gently rolling acres in
the Piedmont region of Northeast Georgia. The tract runs
along the two-lane paved access, Spring Valley Road, for
1,322.64 feet. A portion of the anterior boundary consists of
a segment of Buck Branch Creek. The 12.4 acre lake lies at
roughly the center of the property with a good portion of the
land’s timber running along northeastern banks of the lake.
Acreage Price: $17,200
Location Address: Spring Valley Road
Winterville, GA 30683
Lot Size: 292.587 acres
Will Subdivide?: Yes
Zoning: AR
Millage Rate: 13.70
Gas: Atlanta Gas Light (6 in)
Water: Athens-Clarke Water (12 in)
Sewer: Athens-Clarke Sewer (15 in)
Electricity: Customer choice
Fire Protection: Athens-Clarke County (ISO 2)
Nearest Interstate:
I-85
(25 miles)
Nearest Georgia Port:
Port of Savannah Garden City Terminal
(215 miles)
Nearest International Airport:
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International
(84 miles)
Rail Served Potential CSX mainline connection
Taxes & Incentives
Freeport Taxes: 100% EXEMPTION, CLASS 1 RAW MATERIALS, CLASS 2 GOODS IN PROCESS/FINISHED GOODS, CLASS 3 TRANS-SHIPMENT
GOODS, Tier 1: Job Tax Credits $4,000 per job, 5% Investment Tax Credit, & other Tax Incentives
CHRISTIAN TRACT
292.587
acres
Property Information
Utilities
Location in Athens Accessibility to Interstates
Spring 2014

16. 16 16
Check out our updated website!
CONTACT US: Ryan Moore Phone: 706-613-3233 Cell: 706-612-8448
Ryan.Moore@AthensClarkeCounty.com www.AthensBusiness.org
Updated
Property
Listings
New
Downloadable
Maps
Up to Date
Data
Current
Events and
News
www.AthensBusiness.org