News from Around the State: District Four

Broadband Ready Community

On April 12, 2022, Upson County was designated a “Broadband Ready Community” by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. By completing the online application form and adopting a Comprehensive Plan that includes a broadband services element, as well as, developing a Model Ordinance designed to aid in ensuring a streamlined permitting process, Upson County was proudly named “Broadband Ready.”

Gaining the “Broadband Ready” designation further demonstrated Upson County’s dedication to innovative and collaborative efforts in promoting the expansion of broadband accessibility for residents.  Upson County’s leaders are heavily invested in providing access to broadband and the opportunities for educational, professional, and recreational growth this access will provide.

Upson County joins four other communities in the region also designated “Broadband Ready,” including the City of Woodbury, the City of Hogansville, Carroll County, and Meriwether County. 

Historic Preservation

Dixie Cotton Mill

Three historic structure restoration projects, in the region, were recognized by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation for excellence in rehabilitation. These awards are given every year to showcase projects that make compatible use of a building through repair, alterations or additions while preserving features of the property that convey its historic value. For more than 40 years, the Trust has recognized preservation projects and individuals in the state who have made significant contributions to the field of historic preservation.

The 2022 awards include the Three Rivers communities of:

  • Butts County – Butts County Courthouse 
  • The City of Grantville – Grantville Passenger Depot
  • The City of LaGrange – Dixie Cotton Mills
Parks and Recreation

The City of LaGrange has embarked on a plan to develop an ADA accessible park called the Ridley Lake Project. The city received funds from the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program and will include approximately 1.3 miles of multi-use trails, boardwalks and bridges to wetland areas, ADA inclusive kayak/canoe launch, fishing piers, wildlife viewing areas, pavilions, amphitheater, accessible playgrounds, and a trailhead.

Livable Centers Initiative

The City of Grantville, in partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission has recently completed a downtown LCI (Livable Centers Initiative) study. This project will assist the city in the visualization of a vibrant and revitalized downtown. This was the City of Grantville’s first LCI project.

CDBGs

Two communities were awarded Community Development Block Grants in 2022.  The City of Thomaston was awarded $1,000,000 for Water and Sewer improvements along with the City of Griffin awarded $1,000,000 for Water and Sewer improvements.