Villa Rica Council Approves Downtown Streetscape Plan with 80% Federal Funding

The Villa Rica City Council convened on August 5, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the downtown streetscape project, a key initiative aimed at revitalizing the area. The meeting began with City Engineer Mark Teal outlining the project's funding structure, which includes an 80% federal grant and a 20% local match, primarily sourced from SPLOST funds.

Robert Renwick from Kekkenwood, along with his team, presented the concept layout for the streetscape improvements, focusing on Main Street and Temple Street. This initiative stems from a 2021 Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) study that emphasized enhancing walkability and creating a vibrant downtown atmosphere. Renwick highlighted community feedback from the study, noting that 97% of respondents prioritized expanding the walkable district, while 86% wanted a beautiful and safe public realm.

The proposed design features a realignment of Main Street to connect with Temple Street, creating a curbless street that promotes pedestrian accessibility and safety. Key elements include generous sidewalks, street trees, and a new civic space designed for community gatherings. The design aims to shift the downtown experience from car-centric to pedestrian-friendly, fostering economic vitality and public life.

Council members raised concerns about parking availability, particularly with the introduction of the Great Lawn, which could reduce existing parking spaces. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach that includes improving access to parking and ensuring safety measures for children near the proposed playground adjacent to the railroad tracks.

Additionally, discussions touched on the importance of addressing pedestrian access across the railroad tracks, which currently divides the downtown area. Council members expressed the need for improvements on both sides of the tracks to ensure a cohesive downtown experience and support local businesses.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of community engagement and the need for ongoing discussions about the project’s implementation. The next steps involve finalizing the concept layout and submitting it to the Georgia Department of Transportation for review, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2028. The council remains committed to creating a vibrant and accessible downtown that meets the needs of all residents and businesses.