The College Square
Redevelopment Project

Re-Defining Downtown Through Catalytic Public Space

College Square is the most recognizable and visited area of downtown where thousands of visitors form their first impressions of our community. Making College Square as vibrant as newly renovated Clayton Street will foster new economic activity, jobs and cultural experiences.

The College Square project will transform College Square into a people-focused public open space that supports the vitality of downtown. The new design prioritizes the pedestrian experience, enhances the connection between major destinations, and supports the flourishing entertainment district for residents, businesses, and tourists.

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Project Goals

Based on its mission to improve quality of life and economic vitality in downtown Athens, the Board of Directors for the Athens Downtown Development Authority (ADDA) established three fundamental goals to guide the development and implementation of urban design, streetscape and open space improvements in downtown Athens.

  • Improve connectivity: Enhance connectivity for all modes of transportation to create linkages between downtown businesses, open space and neighborhoods.

  • Enhance character and identity: Enhance the unique character of the downtown area by implementing a streetscape plan that is both reflective of community values and increases the attractiveness of downtown to visitors.

  • Promote street life: Make improvements to downtown Athens' public spaces that raises the quality of pedestrian experience, and affords a variety of places for both passage and lingering, increase social interaction, and foster community pride.

Meet the Team

Meet the individuals working tirelessly to shape our community and push the boundaries of what it can become.

Athens Downtown Development Authority

David Lynn

Director of Planning and Outreach

Linda Ford

Director of Business Services

Athens-Clarke County

Athens Capital Projects Director

Josh Hawkins

Diana Jackson, PE

SPLOST Project Manager

SPG Planners + Engineers

Ed Lane, PE

Principal

Joseph Bates

Studio Lead
Senior Urban Planner +
Project Designer

Wes Ryals

Adolfo Martinez

Project Designer