What do you guys think of Columbus, GA. It is a city of 200,000 with 500,000 in the extended metro area. It is home to a few Fortune 500 companies such as AFLAC, TSYS, and Synovus. It is also home to Ft. Benning which is undergoing a 1 billion construction boom. Also, a new division is coming which will bring 31,000 new residents over the next few years. There is a definite construction boom going on in the city. Just wanted to get some feedback on this city.

I have many fond memories of Columbus growing up. I personally never lived there, but
two of my older siblings were born in St. Francis Hospital. My cousins lived on Sue Mack Drive.
I have nothing but good to say for the ctiy. And, like you, I do think it will continue to grow. Three Fortune 500 companies, and signifigant one's at that, is a boost to any city.

How about some pictures. I don't think I have ever really seen the city.

I second the request for pics. The AFLAC and Synovus link really separates Col form similarly sized Southern cities. There is certainly potential there.

I don't think too much of it. Its just a typical smaller southern city like Augusta, Macon or Tallahassee. They all have potential, the question is do their residents and city administration have the vision needed to take these places to the next level.

I would like to see some pictures too. I like the geography in that part of Georgia. If memory serves it isn't too far south of the "Pine Ridge Mountains"(?)--an usual looking geographic feature in otherwise piedmont-like terrain. Has the river cut any interesting bluffs in the areas around Columbus?

I think it is cool to see cities that are seldom discussed. Often times, the discussions around here get rather boring because the same four or five cities are recycled over and over again.

One minor correction--I don't think TSYS and Synovus are Fortune 500 companies. I believe AFLAC has been on it for a while--they are a pretty good company, as far as insurance companies go anyway :D

http://www.flycolumbusga.com/images/map_new_large.jpg

Don't take this the wrong way, but that looks like a lot of sprawl for such a small metro.

^All of that isn't considered metro Columbus. I drove from Jax to Memphis last year and went right through the heart of many of these counties. There's at least 20-30 miles of undeveloped land between Columbus & Opelika. Plus Stewart, Webster & Chattahoochee Counties are as rural as it gets.

Considering Columbus's estimated metro population is in the neighborhood of 290,000 people, I certainly hope it doesn't cover that many counties! Some rural areas would have a higher population density :laugh:

No, that is just a general map I found. But it is the TV coverage map from Columbus.

Ive been through Columbus (on 185) once but didnt get to see much of the city. Where is the Synovus headquarters in relation to Downtown? I can remember seeing AFLAC, which has a highrise to the north of Downtown...I think. Maybe about a mile outside of the DT area. Am I right on that? Kind of a 70's black glass building?

Ive been through Columbus (on 185) once but didnt get to see much of the city. Where is the Synovus headquarters in relation to Downtown? I can remember seeing AFLAC, which has a highrise to the north of Downtown...I think. Maybe about a mile outside of the DT area. Am I right on that? Kind of a 70's black glass building?

Synovus just built a new 6 story building along the Chattahoochie River downtown. It is a beautiful building. Yes, AFLAC is located on Wynnton Road about a mile north of downtown. The Wynnton district is a very old and wealthy area of the city.The reason they wanted to build it away from downtown was because they wanted to have the tallest building in the city. Another reason was that they wanted to overlook downtown. Their competition at the time was the Government Center downtown, which is 11 stories or so, but looks a lot taller. AFLAC is 20 stories. I wish they would have built it downtown because it would have made the skyline a lot better. Plus AFLAC just built a new 7 or 8 story building by the AFLAC tower. The 70's looking black glass building you are talking about is Carmike Cinemas HQ I believe. It is around 6 or 7 stories. There is another group of buildings on the north side of downtown, that is TSYS HQ. It is a cluster of 3 buildings that are 5 stories I believe. They were built about 7 years ago. I personally think TSYS should have built up, but they are still nice looking buildings.

I think that answered your question, let me know if you want some more information.

What is the status of returning the river to rapids in downtown?

The old dams that were built for the mills serve no purpose and can lead to poblems.

Aren't LaFayette and Meriwether counties part of the new Atlanta 28 county MSA?

DP

Yes, AFLAC is located on Wynnton Road about a mile north of downtown. The reason they wanted to build it away from downtown was because they wanted to have the tallest building in the city.

I don't quite understand that reasoning. They could have built downtown and still had the tallest building. If the government building was built to be taller, it wouldn't matter where in the city AFLAC built its building, it wouldn't be the tallest in the city regardless.


AFLAC is 20 stories. I wish they would have built it downtown because it would have made the skyline a lot better.

Yes it would have. I go to Columbus often and though it looks pretty clean and nice, it has an odd-looking downtown area; esp. for a city of nearly 200,000. There's no cluster of highrises or mid-rises that usually "defines" the central business district like most cities its size. The AFLAC building downtown would have done much to give Columbus a 'real' skyline.
But they have done a good job with streetscaping downtown and along its riverfront.

While I have never had th eopportunity to visit Columbus proper, I have been to the interesting area (topographically and historically) outside the town desribed below in the NYT. I apologize for the length, I took the liberty of editing out much of it.


Acres and Acres of Color
BY CHRISTINE S. COZZENS

POISED where the piedmont meets the coastal plains, the pine-forested mountains of west central Georgia, formed from resilient Hollis quartzite, are scored by dramatic ravines and streaked with pink and white dogwoods in the spring; nearby farmlands, once fleecy with cotton, now are host to the full range of botanical specimens from the southeastern United States and an ever-blooming palette. This swatch of land is sometimes called the Chattahoochee Trace after the river that wanders down from the state's northern mountains to form the border with Alabama. It embraces 200 miles of scenic country roads and some of Georgia's most carefully preserved landscape and history -- all because of a rare native plant called the plumleaf azalea and a hot springs that simmers at 88 degrees year round.
In the 1930's, Cason Callaway, a textile magnate from nearby La Grange, and his wife, Virginia, were exploring land they had purchased near Blue Springs at Pine Mountain, a steeply ridged formation that makes up the last spine of the Appalachian range. When the two discovered a brilliant reddish orange azalea, Virginia identified it as the prunifloria, or plumleaf, variety that grows only within a hundred-mile radius of the spot, and Callaway vowed to build a magnificent garden to reclaim the region's worn-out cotton fields and preserve its flora for the public to enjoy.

Today, Callaway Gardens covers more than 14,000 acres, including a 2,500-acre woodland garden; paths for walking, bicycling and driving around a complex of lakes; greenhouses that merge the indoor environment with the natural landscape outside, resort and recreational facilities; historical exhibits, and the country's largest free-flying butterfly conservatory. The nonprofit Ida Cason Callaway Foundation, headed by the Callaways' son, Howard H. Callaway, owns and manages the gardens, an adjacent U.S. natural landmark forest of 8,000 acres, and the for-profit resort and recreational properties. The foundation uses the proceeds from the resort and recreational properties to maintain the gardens and forests. More than a million visitors come to the gardens each year, so I avoid weekend visits at the busiest times -- azalea season and the Fantasy in Lights festival in December -- or take my bicycle to bypass the traffic.

A few years before the Callaways made their discovery, Franklin Delano Roosevelt had come to the region seeking a cure for his polio. Near the town of Warm Springs, on the northern slope of Pine Mountain, he built the vacation home soon known as the Little White House and helped design the state park that bears his name -- 10,000 acres of land between Warm Springs and Callaway Gardens. Roosevelt, architect of the New Deal, and Callaway, a fervent Republican, put politics second to their love for the Pine Mountain area and became friends, united in their efforts to cultivate and conserve its beauty.

Adjacent to the Day Center, Mr. Cason's Vegetable Garden, southern site of the PBS program "Victory Garden," is characterized by usefulness and artistry. Framed by neat hedges, the seven and a half acres of orderly flower and vegetable beds demonstrate seasonal gardening using the latest techniques; there are always gardeners to talk to, ideas being tested and seedlings for sale. A year-round herb garden masses fragrant banks of rosemary, oregano, mint and sage with seasonal flowers.

From Callaway Gardens, it is a 16-mile drive over Pine Mountain to the wild, dusky ravines where, in 1924, Roosevelt sought relief at the hot springs in nearby Bullochville, later renamed Warm Springs. He returned to Warm Springs often, staying at cottages near the pools, and in 1927 he arranged for the renovation of the hot springs facilities, eventually investing two-thirds of his fortune to establish the Roosevelt Warm Springs Foundation for the treatment of polio patients. By 1932, the year he became President, Roosevelt's six-room white frame cabin around the corner from the rehabilitation center had been completed.

Today, the Little White House, with its four slender columns and graceful portico, is preserved exactly as it was on April 12, 1945, when the fourth-term President died there while sitting for his portrait. The simplicity of this Presidential retreat, the only house Roosevelt built and furnished for himself, bespeaks its Depression Era origins.

Across from the house are the two guest cottages, where national and world leaders sometimes stayed. The complex also includes the old sentry house, a neighbor's cottage and the servant's quarters and garage housing the President's specially built, manually controlled Ford convertible.

Up the hill to the left of the Bump Gate, a wide gate Roosevelt designed to open and swing back into place when nudged by a car bumper, is the Georgia Mustian Wilkins cottage, which tells the story of the Warm Springs years and of Roosevelt's struggle with polio. The cottage is filled with documents, photographs and memorabilia, including the President's saddle and bridle, his leg braces and wheelchair. A film comprised of home movies taken at the cabin and the rehabilitation center includes rare footage of Roosevelt in a bathing suit wearing leg braces or in his wheelchair, showing that he comfortably revealed his disability to the friends, family and fellow polio survivors who surrounded him at Warm Springs.

All during the Warm Springs years he interested himself in reclamation projects including agricultural experimentation and extensive tree planting in the valleys surrounding Pine Mountain. It is said that except during wartime exigency, he never had a tree cut down if he could help it, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which manages the Little White House and the Pools and Springs Area, still respects his wishes.

The road between Warm Springs and Callaway Gardens, State Highway 190, cuts through Franklin Delano Roosevelt State Park, following the crest of the last ridge in the piedmont region and affording spectacular views of the lakes, forests and farmlands on both sides, especially at Dowdell's Knob, the rocky outcropping that was Roosevelt's favorite picnic spot, where the stone grill he and his guests used is still standing.

ROOSEVELT STATE PARK, one of Georgia's largest recreational facilities, offers a web of hiking trails, cabin and tent sites, horseback riding by the hour or day, and fishing in two manmade lakes. Built from local materials by the New Deal's Civilian Conservation Corps, the park's lodge, stone swimming pool and log cabins reflect the rustic style of the early conservation movement.

State Highway 190 leads down into the little town of Warm Springs, where the 19th- and early 20th-century storefronts, raised sidewalks and train depot have been restored to recall the Roosevelt era. And just outside town, the hot springs and pools that Roosevelt made famous, fallen into disrepair in the last 20 years as the institute moved away from hydrotherapy, were opened for public viewing last year.

Whether I begin my trip on the northeastern side of Pine Mountain, at the Little White House and Warm Springs, or at the southwestern end, I am often drawn in the opposite direction later that afternoon, as if the region's two moods -- the serenity of the forest and the riot of color and foliage in the garden -- made the day whole.

What is the status of returning the river to rapids in downtown?

The old dams that were built for the mills serve no purpose and can lead to poblems.

I believe they are going to start breaching the dams this year or early in 2006. Columbus is waiting for the Army Corp of Engineers to finish their feasiblity study. Phenix City across the river from Columbus is undergoing a 300 million downtown revitalization with new hotels and shopping along the river. They are anticipating a lot of people for the rapids. Here is an update that I found:

The power generation on the Eagle Phenix Dam will be stopped due to the purchase by Uptown Columbus. The same group is also retaining the option to purchase the dam immediately upstream, City Mills. This will allow the breaching after the feasiblity study is completed by the Army Corp of Engineers. Hopefully the talk of removal of City Mills Dam and Eagle Phenix Dam will stop being verbalized and be acted upon. The return of the Coweta Fall rapids to Columbus/ Phenix City would create a stretch of whitewater that would be an asset to the local fishermen, river enthusiasts and the entire southeast.

I agree too bystander. They had a great opportunity for TSYS to build a nice 20 or 25 story building, but they chose 3 or 4 large buildings that are only 5 stories or so. Hopefully something tall will pop up in the near future. There are plans to add to the Wyndham Hotel, and I heard there are talks about demolishing an old warehouse along the river. That would be a great site for a new highrise. The only thing I know that is going up now is Columbus State University's new 5 story dorm and parking deck for their new art campus along the river.

Still no pictures?

http://corp_overview

The new $70 million dollar National Infantry Museum has started construction. The blueprints for the new complex detail a 150,000-square-foot main building that will house eight 5,000-square-foot galleries, a cafe, themed cafeteria and gift shop centered around a grand rotunda. The new structure will provide climate-controlled, protective storage for undisplayed items. The museum is expected to attract 300,000+ visitors each year.

Am I correct that Columbus takes up a pretty good chunk of Muscogee County and that some of its city limits are empty for infrastructural purposes?

I haven't been to Columbus in about two years but I remeber I-185 being a pretty decent stretch of highway, and there are some decent neighborhoods flanking portions of it. Unfortunately, I don't remember seeing much of a skyline, but you wouldn't expect an overpowering skyline for a metro area of such size.

Columbus and Muscogee county have consolidated government, so all of Muscogee County is the City of Columbus. Except for the part of the county that is in Fort Benning. That is US government property and therefore not subject to municipal government control.

Well, I just came back from Columbus today! About me, I am from Bham moved to Montgomery junior year of high school and now I attend Auburn. So my roomie wanted a lotto ticket and we decided to check out Columbus. I haven't been there since I was like 6 for wedding. I really liked it, it has sort of the Montgomery appeal to it. But its denser. The downtown only had one tall building and other older buildings that are very well kept up in my opinion. We were at the mall and the cops were wondering why we wanted to know how to get to downtown, like what is down there? I wish I had taken pics, but I think its one of those cities that you have to go see to get a feel for it pictures wouldnt do it justice. But I wouldnt live there but I love to chill at the mall there and eat out. That's it.

^Why wouldn't you live there?

Well when I was younger and I visited the Alabama capitol I was like gee I wouldnt mind living there. A couple years later that statement came to haunt me when we actually moved there LOL. Its just really not that much to do, its a good place to take a oneday trip to, but not live there. A lot of my friends want to move to ATL, I'm from Bham which is smaller but not that much of difference. So I want to move to the West Coast a place very different in culture than Im used to. Columbus has a riverwalk, one building in downtown, and a military base which = Montgomery.

Well when I was younger and I visited the Alabama capitol I was like gee I wouldnt mind living there. A couple years later that statement came to haunt me when we actually moved there LOL. Its just really not that much to do, its a good place to take a oneday trip to, but not live there. A lot of my friends want to move to ATL, I'm from Bham which is smaller but not that much of difference. So I want to move to the West Coast a place very different in culture than Im used to. Columbus has a riverwalk, one building in downtown, and a military base which = Montgomery.

You must have missed the AFLAC building a little east of downtown. It's the tallest in the city.

I liked Columbus. One of my favorite parts is the random lonely tower. I think it was the Aflac one.

I liked Columbus. One of my favorite parts is the random lonely tower. I think it was the Aflac one.

Actually there are two. AFLAC is a little east of downtown and the Government Center is right downtown. AFLAC is tall and skinny and the Government center is tall and wide. When were you in Columbus?

Actually there are two. AFLAC is a little east of downtown and the Government Center is right downtown. AFLAC is tall and skinny and the Government center is tall and wide. When were you in Columbus?
In the summer I live in Georgia, a little south of Warner Robins. But, my sister's softball team got to go to the tournament in Alexander City, AL, so we figured we'd go see it since it was only like two hours away. So on the way there and on the way back we visited.

Im talking about the tall random tower to the east of downtown. Got any pics?:D I wish I would of taken some.

I think Columbus is the only city I can think of that has two time zones in its metro area. In fact, doesn't the Alabama/Georgia border go right through downtown on the Chatahoochee River?

That is true Nick, and the state line between Alabama and Georgia is a sticky subject. Probably one of the more problomatic in the country.

By creatiting lakes Alabama lost land to Georgia because of the way the state charter was writen.

I think Columbus is the only city I can think of that has two time zones in its metro area. In fact, doesn't the Alabama/Georgia border go right through downtown on the Chattahoochee River?

What about Chattanooga, Tenn? Isn't its metro partly in Alabama?

Alabama is too far from Chattanooga. All of the Metro counties are in TN and GA.

Alabama is too far from Chattanooga. All of the Metro counties are in TN and GA.

Thats what I thought.

Anybody know what is going on with the Eagle-Phenix Mills in downtown Columbus? I was driving through downtown and saw a portion of the building colapse. I drove by and saw a bunch of "demolition" signs... I haven't heard anything about renovating the old mills.

I think WC Bradley Co. bought the old mill and is planning to tear down part of it. They are opening up that area along the river. I am not sure what they have planned for the site. Hopefully, they will tear the whole thing down! It would be a great place for a new hotel, office building, condos, etc. This is just what I read a year ago or so. If anyone has any idea, please let me know.

Does anyone have any pics?

Originally from Columbus, living in Atlanta now. But still have family there, including brother who works for architectural firm. Also, have weekend cabin
in Pine Mt, next to state park, so get down that way often. Greatgrandfather was firechief for many years. Grandfather associated with AFLAC early on. So roots go back a ways.

Appears to me that city is breaking out of dormancy and moving from top of third-tier into lower second-tier with a bullet. Lots of activity. As noted, dams being removed and I understand that whitewater will be best in entire East -- better than North Carolina, New England etc. Old mill downtown (Eagle/Phenix) being renovated (partially removed) by Bradley/Turner (old Coke money -- coke founder -- Dr. Pemberton -- from there and his house now a museum) as condos/shops in a long-term development. College moving art/drama schools downtown (music school already there, along with great new symphony hall). Plans to turn abandoned RR track between main campus/downtown into trolley line/bikepath -- along which is rising a new townhouse development (replacing old low-income housing) and proposed refurbishment as condos of the old abandoned Johnson Mill on 12th Ave. New lofts in Johnston Mill along river, and Bibb Mill (once among largest textile mills in the world ay > 1,000,000 sf) being held for development (only upscale antique mall now open). Brother says that views from Bibb Mill of river are breath-taking and should make sought-after condos. Bibb City is old textile village that is being slowly renovated by local/Atlanta developers. When finished RiverWalk will run ~ 20 miles from Oliver Dam to Ft Benning, past new Civil War Naval Museum (fabulous facility -- check it out on line) and Infantry Museum which is soon to be built. Oxbow Meadows is a great eco/park run by College and has a "tree canopy" walkway that is way cool. Other projects in thw works but not announced. Advanced Micro Devices also almost built 1-billion chip plant there 2 years ago, but opted into consortium in Singapore instead -- yet hear that they are still interested in the area for possible future expansion. Also BRAC should help FT Benning as other bases close and move there -- it has alot of undeveloped land.
As noted, lack of tall buildings in town. Architecture gravitates toward low-rise, red brick, Victorian/Southern. Heard it compared to a small Memphis in character/looks. All in all, a typical river town but with a slightly more progressive feel (ALFAC, TSYS, Synovous) than some others. May get taller buildings in future, but all things considered, it will probably be a "vanity" building by one of the larger corporations than one built on spec with venture capital. Will pass along any news from my brother that I hear about new/proposed developments.

Originally from Columbus, living in Atlanta now. But still have family there, including brother who works for architectural firm. Also, have weekend cabin
in Pine Mt, next to state park, so get down that way often. Greatgrandfather was firechief for many years. Grandfather associated with AFLAC early on. So roots go back a ways.

Appears to me that city is breaking out of dormancy and moving from top of third-tier into lower second-tier with a bullet. Lots of activity. As noted, dams being removed and I understand that whitewater will be best in entire East -- better than North Carolina, New England etc. Old mill downtown (Eagle/Phenix) being renovated (partially removed) by Bradley/Turner (old Coke money -- coke founder -- Dr. Pemberton -- from there and his house now a museum) as condos/shops in a long-term development. College moving art/drama schools downtown (music school already there, along with great new symphony hall). Plans to turn abandoned RR track between main campus/downtown into trolley line/bikepath -- along which is rising a new townhouse development (replacing old low-income housing) and proposed refurbishment as condos of the old abandoned Johnson Mill on 12th Ave. New lofts in Johnston Mill along river, and Bibb Mill (once among largest textile mills in the world ay > 1,000,000 sf) being held for development (only upscale antique mall now open). Brother says that views from Bibb Mill of river are breath-taking and should make sought-after condos. Bibb City is old textile village that is being slowly renovated by local/Atlanta developers. When finished RiverWalk will run ~ 20 miles from Oliver Dam to Ft Benning, past new Civil War Naval Museum (fabulous facility -- check it out on line) and Infantry Museum which is soon to be built. Oxbow Meadows is a great eco/park run by College and has a "tree canopy" walkway that is way cool. Other projects in thw works but not announced. Advanced Micro Devices also almost built 1-billion chip plant there 2 years ago, but opted into consortium in Singapore instead -- yet hear that they are still interested in the area for possible future expansion. Also BRAC should help FT Benning as other bases close and move there -- it has alot of undeveloped land.
As noted, lack of tall buildings in town. Architecture gravitates toward low-rise, red brick, Victorian/Southern. Heard it compared to a small Memphis in character/looks. All in all, a typical river town but with a slightly more progressive feel (ALFAC, TSYS, Synovous) than some others. May get taller buildings in future, but all things considered, it will probably be a "vanity" building by one of the larger corporations than one built on spec with venture capital. Will pass along any news from my brother that I hear about new/proposed developments.

Do you know what W.C. Bradley plans to do with the Eagle Phenix mill downtown? I know they are tearing half of it down. I think this is great and would be a good place for a new highrise hotel, office, or condo development. You mentioned that they are going to renovate some of it, but I was just wondering what they were going to do with the land that they are clearing.

I have wondered which (if any) fall line city in GA would eventually take off and become a "second tier" city. Augusta always seemed the logical choice to me because of the population of the metro and the the medical college and other medical institutions. I now wonder if Columbus isn't better positioned with its corporate presence. It sounds like there is a fair amount going on downtown. Will need to check it out personally someday. As posted earlier, I am a fan of the region north and east of the city (pine mtn, little white house, callaway).

Savannah and soon-to-be-exburbs of ATL (Athens, Gainesville, and Rome, maybe even Dalton) have all seemed to be moving in the right direction, while the fall line cities have stagnated (in my opinion). It would be good for GA for at least one of them to take off.

athens moving? ha! gainesville and rome in the right direction? ha ha! dalton? ha ha ha!!

columbus seems cool to me. it's sort of a little college town with a few nice large corporations that, as someone else said, give it a little bit of a progressive feel.

athens moving? ha! gainesville and rome in the right direction? ha ha! dalton? ha ha ha!!

columbus seems cool to me. it's sort of a little college town with a few nice large corporations that, as someone else said, give it a little bit of a progressive feel.

I don't think I would call Columbus a small college town. It has 1/2 million in the extended metro area. Columbus State University has seen a growth surge over the last 5 or 6 years. It has had a 47% growth rate in the last 5 years. The current population of the university is around 7,500. I have heard projections that by 2015 it will have around 13,000 students. The new campus downtown is unbelievable with two new 5 story dorms for over 500 new students. Also, the new The Cunningham Center will house the Columbus Regional Technology Center, designed to nurture startup technology-based companies. With about $2 million from CSU’s Investment in People capital campaign and a $500,000 grant from OneGeorgia Authority, the project is expected to incubate eight entrepreneurial companies creating up to 720 new jobs in the next 10 years. The project represents a collaboration of both private and public organizations including CSU, the Valley Partnership Joint Development Authority, OneGeorgia Authority, University System of Georgia, Columbus Consolidated Government, Georgia Institute of Technology, Columbus Water Works, Development Authority of Columbus and the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce. There is a lot going on with this extremely fast growing university.

athens moving? ha! gainesville and rome in the right direction? ha ha! dalton? ha ha ha!!

I'm not sure I get your point. You should elaborate more.

I'm simply pointing out that the cities above (or at least their respective counties) have all grown significantly, and arguably independently, in the past 10 to 20 years, with Gainesville-Hall growing tremendously and with a degree of affluence. Personally, I think Athens is one of the more interesting towns in the South. Major corporations or industries? Dalton area has at least a couple in its midst -Shaw (albeit a subsidiary of Berkshire?) and Mohawk (a fortune 500). I don't know that much about Rome admittedly, although Berry College looks pretty. Are you suggesting the growth of these cities is harmful? If so, that is a potentially interesting point. Otherwise....?

pardon my sarcasm - athens is awesome, and i agree with you about it being interesting; i just don't see it booming much, which i think to be a good thing.

i've been interested in csu for awhile now, as well as in ga's other 3rd tier cities. (augusta, savannah, etc) i wasn't knocking csu - it's just got a relatively small university population compared to major universities... uga's total student population is over 30k and there are still dinky towns like carrollton (uni of west ga) which has a student population over 10k. i'm glad csu has sprouted so much lately and will be happy to watch it grow. (and columbus grow around it)

dalton... shaw industries, inc.

As I understand it plans for Eagle/phenix Mill are to make it into a mixed use facility.
The "newer" portions will be demolished, leaving the original late 1800's building only.
So, no highrise anticipated. The site will be near the take-out point of new whitewater run (Dillingham Bridge) --
Plans now are for shops, restaurants, bars, plazas overlooking river and possibly condos /lofts on upper levels.
By the way, the old Bibb Mill mentioned in earlier post is near white water put-in point (new bridge on Allen Freeway). The 2-3 miles along white-water course between there and Dillingham Bridge should be prime realty for development (as the Johnston Mill Lofts signifies). So I think Columbus will develop a linear "downtown" with new resdidential/commerial moving north from traditional downtown toward Bibb City. Any new
highrises will most likely be there rather than traditional downtown which probably will be kept low-rise and "quaint" with entertainment the main focus (whitewater, Springer Opera, symphony, art galleries, etc)
Of course Phenix City has fabulous plans to develop its own river front.
I think Columbus considers Augusta its strongest competitor at present -- among Georgia cities at any rate. However, I hear that Ft Gordon may not be treated kindly by BRAC and the politica/business community there may be less united than in Columbus. At any rate, if things work out, Columbus may well move to head of 2d tier in Georgia -- tho Savannah may be hard to catch based on its charisma/charm rather than fundamentals.
Yes, CSU has become a real asset. As noted > 7000 students. Plans are to make it into one of the top 2d choice schools for in-state students (like Ga. Southern in Statesboro) and grow accordingly. The new tech incubation center should help development. Also Columbus Tech is quite large and has a great rep.
It is instrumental in development of the new Botanical Gardens, tied in with its Landscaping Design Program. Personally I think that Columbus is waiting for a spark -- like a new AMD
plant -- to start a cascade effect and tech boom. Infrastructure is in place like new Tech Park (where AMD was going to build). But prying prospects away from traditional tech centers (like Huntsville, Research Triangle) aint going to be easy. The thing that I see separating Columbus from the rest of the pack is its lifestyle -- whitewater, Providence Canyon, Callawy Gardens, FDR's Little White House, Andersonville, Pine Mt., Civil War naval Museum -- and the growth potential of Ft Benning (new troops/families and Infantry Museum) and certainly its closeness to Atlanta. At 90 minutes by car, Hartsfield is closer to Columbus than most of the N. Atlanta suburbs.

Checkout

wcbradleyrealestate.com

for pix/story about Eagle/Phenix Mill and new Synovous Center

Columbus certainly is a surprising little city. I hope the management plays their cards right and at least keeps some kind of vision going. People need a vision--something spectacular to shoot for, or no progress will occur. Western Georgia needs something like this. I believe that Georgia has been hurt by the obsessive focus on Atlanta and that a smaller city like Columbus, if grown correctly, may very well lure more would-be Atlantans seeking a more intimate and less overwhelming quality of life. Keep the updates coming, I find it fascinating.

What are some things that Columbus needs to have or improve on in order to be more competitive with cities like Birmingham, Greenville, Knoxville, Jacksonville, and Raleigh. Basically, what are some things you would like to see Columbus have in order to move up in importance in the Southeast. I just want to get some opinions from people from other cities.

Columbus has got to try and get a pro sports team again after losing the Cottonmouths to Sarasota

Columbus has got to try and get a pro sports team again after losing the Cottonmouths to Sarasota

They still have the Cottonmouths. The team moved to another league. I went to a game about 2 weeks ago. I think they moved to the SPHL which has Winston-Salem, Knoxville, Asheville, Jacksonville, and a few other cities.

Things Columbus needs (in no particular order)

1. Extend I-185 south to I-10 (new alternate route to Fla = more traffic/commerce/notariety for area) by making Hwy 27 interstate from Chattanooga to Tallahassee
2. New interstate connection to Montgomery and B'ham = access to Atlantic and points west. Make Fallline Freeway interstate and extend it to points west
3. A break, as in new splashy announcement of tech facility ala AMD
4. Much more aggressive PR in general and especially of new expanded convention center
5. Coordination of promotion efforts with surrounding attractions, as tourism is a vast untapped resource. Ashville capitalizes on its scenery/location, whereas Columbus needs to capitalize on its (Pine Mt, Providence Canyon, whitewater, new proposed marina) as well as being centrally located for numerous historical attactions (Little White House, Naval Museum, Infantry Museum). Crying need for new hotels
6. Promote proximity to Atlanta, touting Columbus as a viable business alternative with all (or most) of the benefits without the hassles
7. Promote Harris County as possible bedroom community for Atlanta as well as Columbus (thought of doing that myself, communting from Pine Mt).
8. High-speed rail connection to Hartsfield (up I-185/85 median) with stops in Pine Mt, LaGrange, Newnan, S. Fulton County)
9. Decentralization of state government with some departments moving out of Atlanta into other venues (as recent move of Archieves to Clayton County). Columbus might be good location for Insurance Dept, considering AFLAC, or department regulating banking considering Synovus

My experience is that Columbus seems to suffer neddelessly from an inferiority complex. It needs to crow, ala Atlanta, which was built on bluster as much as fact. I am surprised at how few people know about Columbus. Most who have heard of it and not been there in the past 10 years or so think of it as an isolated mill/military stagnant backwater. While it seems to be moving away from dependence on mill/ military, it is still some what isolated transportation/reputation-wise. It does not have the colonial charm of Savannah, but it has the capacity to become the 19th century/Victorian counterpart if it has the will to promote itself as such. Come to Georgia and see the 20/21-century (Atlanta), the 19-century (Columbus) and the 18-century

I didn't know anything about Columbus before ATLman posted these threads. And to be honest, I wasn't totally aware Georgia had a place called Columbus before this. :D Therefore, my input as an outsider can't be too specific, but I will comment on what I can.

gah, I definitely agree with your idea regarding freeway access. Columbus looks like it is a bit isolated, and I believe someone here or on another forum spoke of how it was really isolated before I-185 was built. This kind of enhancement is a no-brainer

I also agree that the place needs some publicity as well as a more diverse job market--definitely more white collar type jobs over a variety of disciplines. Perhaps it could house some satellite offices for companies in Atlanta? This would really help get some more people in the area, and as I said before (and you also hit on), could be touted as a more life-size place to live than Atlanta, with fewer headaches and greater convenience.

Columbus is really close to "Pine Ridge", correct? It is a very cool looking geographic feature on a topo map. Combine that with the river and Columbus has a lot of natural treasures to capitalize upon.

These things require quite a bit of infrastructure and therefore a LOT of money. I suspect that these things will happen in some form, but it may take decades of build up before we'll really see it all come together in a cohesive package. I would just hate to see this area become Atlanta's "bitch", you know? Columbus strikes me as a good pencil sketching, waiting to be painted. You don't want it painted by someone who sucks!

Being a train buff, I love your train idea and I believe it would help Columbus seem more accessible to tourists or future business travellers, however I couldn't begin to imagine the cost of such a project. You never know, in the distant future it may become a reality.

Frack -- Thanx for comments. Glad we are in so much agreement :)
Actually, the geographic feature is called Pine Mountain. Probably a misnomer, as is only ~ 1000 ft at highest. But that is what passes for a "mountain" there at the fall line. It is the first high ground north of the fallline/coastal plain.
It is a pretty interesting place, as I think it was once a spur of the Appalachians but became isolated during the last Ice Age. (There is that "isolation" concept again) At any rate it has trees/animal life which is more like Smokies than would be expected this far south. My weekend place is there and I am a member of a hiking group which hikes/works trails on mountain in FDR Park twice a month. I have turkeys, deer, rabbits, raccoons, armadillos, coyotes, wildcats, beavers, snakes, turtles and (I suspect) a bear on my place. Quite a change from the urban jungle! The area is just becoming discovered by Atlantans and "half-backers" (those folks who moved to Florida and now want a place to live/vacation that is not so flat/hot but also not all the way back North). It has FDR Park (largest in Ga) and Callaway Gardens, as well as Little White House/Warm Springs
In truth nature was pretty kind to the Columbus area so I do think that that is something it should capitalize on more than it has. Providence Canyon/Westville, for example, are fabulous places but off-the-beaten track, get almost no publicity and
are overlooked even by natives. If you ever get to the area drop by my place for drinks and a chat!

The Pine Mountain and Callaway Gardens area north of Columbus is a great place for a vacation. Callaway has done a lot in the last few years to bring in more tourists. They completed a new convention hall and are in the plans of adding another hotel. They also broke ground a year ago on a residential development on the Callaway property. I went hiking a few months ago on Pine Mountain. This is truly a beautiful place with unbelievable views. Warm Springs which is only a few miles away has a great museum of FDR. If you are in Warm Springs try the Bulloch House restaurant, it is great place to eat.

Hey Atlman 1 -- why not join my hiking group for a Saturday hike? Saturday March 18 is next scheduled event. Check out our website

pinemountaintrail.org.

Same invite to you regarding drinks at my place!

Isn't Columbus, GA one of those Georgia cities that grew in population b/c it merged with the surrounding county?

Isn't Columbus, GA one of those Georgia cities that grew in population b/c it merged with the surrounding county?

Yes, Columbus did merge with its county. The county and city consolidated in 1971. The county is very small in square miles at 216 sq. miles. The city is building up very fast and is running out of developable land. Harris County to the north has seen significant growth in the last 10 years. Also, Lee County, Alabama, which borders Columbus, has seen a lot of suburban development from people moving outside of the city. I say within the next 20 to 30 years, Columbus and Atlanta will be completely connected. Also, Ft. Benning is adding a new brigade that is going to bring between 15,000 to 18,000 new residents to the city.

Anymore ideas on what Columbus needs in order to become more competitive in the Southeast?

Urban renewal can't hurt if done in small amounts.

Columbus really does have the potential to be a BOOM city. Yes, it is relatively small. But it was the birthplace of Coca Cola, and it has Aflac, Synovus, which are major Fortune 500 companies.

Aflac is the only Fortune 500 company headquartered in Columbus. Synovus and TSYS are respectable corporations but they are not in the list.

gah and I pretty much agree on most points--the basics for making Columbus a more attractive place to live and work. Use Atlanta as an advantage--tap off of that energy. Don't just let Atlanta eventually leak out into the Columbus area. Attract satellite campuses, improve travel infrastructure, embrace an intelligent growth policy from the get-go... don't do "more of the same", people are tired of that.

Columbus's major employers don't really employ a huge number of people. Therefore I would assume that they are not the big draw. Columbus does have its share of blue-collar or narrow-skill jobs, but the existing white-collar jobs appear to lean towards health insurance and financial processing. Given the existing infrastructure for those industries, I would think that Columbus should attact more pertinent employers and naturally expand what they have. <-- Build from that.

It also has a very excellent airport as well that can expand. My general practioner lives in Harris County and commutes to the extreme northside of Atlanta four days a week. But has a 125 acre plantation home in Pine Mountain that is stunning, and also a minimal condo in an old complex in Atlanta, but loves living near Columbus.

Believe me it is an up and coming city.

It also has a very excellent airport as well that can expand. My general practioner lives in Harris County and commutes to the extreme northside of Atlanta four days a week. But has a 125 acre plantation home in Pine Mountain that is stunning, and also a minimal condo in an old complex in Atlanta, but loves living near Columbus.

Believe me it is an up and coming city.

Columbus is definitely moving in the right direction. With the new Muscogee Technology Park, Columbus will continue to bring in high-tech industry. Techsphere Systems International is building its new HQ in the park which will create over 1,000 new jobs in the next 4 years. Also, Heckler & Koch is building a big operation in the park creating 500 new jobs. This new park is only in the beginning stages and will be unbelievable when fully built out. Downtown is also seeing a lot of new development along the river with Columbus State University and new lofts. You are right SkyscraperBuilder, Columbus is really becoming an up and coming city.

Here is some new information on the DT redevelopment of a mill that will turned into condos, retail, and restaurants. This is from the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer. It is a long article but sounds really interesting.

Development to bring residences, restaurants, retail and office space to historic site

A historic Columbus mill site dating back to the mid-1800s is on the verge of dramatic change.

The old Eagle & Phenix Mill that sits on the east bank of Chattahoochee River in downtown Columbus will be converted to residences, restaurants and office space. The project is projected to cost more than $50 million and take up to 10 years to complete.

The mill and 16 acres of prime riverfront real estate was purchased from the bankrupt Pillowtex Corp. for $5.8 million by the W.C. Bradley Co. more than a year ago.

Now, the Columbus company, with its partner Columbus-based Flournoy Development Co., is moving forward with plans to tear out non-historic chunks of the mill. That work began earlier this month.

That demolition -- which will leave six historic mill structures standing -- will open up a world of possibilities for reuse of the city's oldest industrial site.

"We hope at the end of the day it is a community within itself," W.C. Bradley Real Estate Division President Mat Swift said.

It is another significant investment step being made along the river.

Consider the recent riverfront expenditures:

• $100 million TSYS campus that opened in September 1999.

• $40 million Columbus State University performing and visual arts campus that is under construction and renovation at the base of Dillingham Street Bridge.

• $30 million expansion of the Columbus Convention & Trade Center that was complete last year.

• $22 million Synovus Centre, a five-story office building opened last year between 11th and 12th streets.

The more than $242 million in reinvestment -- counting plans for the Eagle & Phenix -- has happened along a one-mile stretch of urban riverbank.

The plans

Plans for the mill were developed over the last 18 months after visits to similar mill restoration projects in Savannah, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Tenn., and Greenville, S.C.

The Eagle & Phenix property includes multiple buildings with river views and river access.

There are three main mill buildings that will be used for residential purposes. Current plans -- which could and probably will change over the 10-year course of the project -- call for condominiums that will be sold to buyers in two buildings and rental apartments in the third building.

Developers expect between 50 and 60 condominiums, which could range in price from $125,000 to nearly $500,000 per unit.

"We looked at a lot of old mills and old mill buildings," Swift said. "The one thing that we found is there is a trend toward people owning their own units."

Tom Flournoy, president of Flournoy Development Co., said the condominiums will diversify the downtown residential population.

"Part of the reason for doing condominiums is to bring a different element -- a permanent resident," Flournoy said.

And those residents will have a major say in what their home looks like. The plans call for residents to be able to purchase certain square footage, then go in and design the interior -- room sizes and locations. The company is currently arranging focus groups with prospective buyers to discuss the possibilities.

In addition to the condominiums, there is a plan to turn Mill No. 3, the building closest to 12th Street, into an apartment building with up to 100 units. The ground floor space in that building will be marketed as the site of a grocery store.

There are four possible sites for restaurants along the backside of the mill buildings, facing the river. Plans also call for the Chattahoochee Riverwalk to run along the backside of the project. It will create a mixture of public and private access to the property.

Lisa Collins, president of Uptown Columbus Inc., has seen the plans for the mill site and said it will be a "shot in the arm" for continued downtown redevelopment. She expects the project will drive more people back to the central business district.

"The restaurants they are planning will give more people the opportunity to be able to enjoy those views of the river," Collins said.

Historic significance

Before the old mill property was purchased, W.C. Bradley officials began consulting with historical preservationist at Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Ray Luce, director of the department's Historical Preservation Division, has made two visits to the Eagle & Phenix Mill.

"We wanted them on board early," Swift said.

There are a couple of reasons for that.

• The mill, along with other riverfront mills from Bibb City to the Trade Center, are part of the National Historic Landmark. There are only 200 such landmarks in the state.

• The Historical Preservation Division holds the key to federal historic tax credits, which will make the project financially feasible. The project could qualify for millions in income tax breaks if approved.

Luce said the site holds major historical significance.

"You can see the layers of history on that site," Luce said. "It is a terribly important location. It is important to Columbus, it is important to Georgia, it is important to the South and it is important to the United States."

Luce said he is impressed with the plans to preserve and reuse the historically significant structures.

"The thing that is important is they are not trying to do it as a museum," Luce said. "They are going to reuse it, but they are also going to do something that retains the authenticity."

Developers will peel away more than 700,000 square feet of space. Most of that was built in the last 50 years and does not carry historic significance. What it will leave is a historic footprint from the early 1900s as the textile mill was expanding and flourishing.

When demolition is complete later this year, six historic mill structures dating back to the 1860s will be left standing between 13th and 12th streets.

"It will be similar to the 1910 look of the mill," Swift said.

Virginia Peebles, the outgoing executive director of the Historic Columbus Foundation, said the developers have been innovative in their approach to the project.

"They are doing what we have been preaching -- adaptive reuse," Peebles said.

In the 1990s, a riverfront mill was demolished to make way for the TSYS campus. That drew the ire of the state's Historical Preservation Division, though they could do nothing to stop it.

Peebles said by bringing the state officials into the conversation early, some of the problems of the past can be avoided.

"I just think Mat is trying to do the right thing," she said. "Perhaps everybody in Columbus has learned from past experiences."

The partnership

This is not the first time W.C. Bradley and Flournoy Development have formed a partnership for downtown redevelopment. Three years ago, they reworked three 11th Street buildings for 46 loft apartments and restaurant space.

"They did a great job on 11th Street," Swift said of Flournoy Construction Co.

The partnership works for several reasons.

The W.C. Bradley Real Estate Division has developed a number of large projects, including Maple Ridge golf community, Bradley Park and Brookstone Centre, a North Columbus office park. Flournoy Development Co. is one of the nation's largest apartment builders and property managers. The company, which owns its construction company, operates in more than 120 communities across the country.

The partnership between the two homegrown companies makes sense, Flournoy said.

Flournoy Construction Co. will do the construction work, while Flournoy Development Co. has experience in apartment leasing and management. The W.C. Bradley Co. brings riverfront development experience, real estate sales experience and commercial leasing experience to the deal.

"It makes for a good team," Flournoy said.

In addition to working on the redevelopment of the old mill properties, the two companies will also have the opportunity to build new buildings north of the 13th Street bridge. All of the mill buildings, none of which are historic, will be torn down, creating more than a block of wide-open riverfront property.

"It is a blank piece of paper," Flournoy said. "Do we put nice condominiums? Do you back it up with another office like the Synovus Centre? The only reason this is a 10-year program is because you have that blank piece of paper up there."

Swift cautions that plans will change as the project progresses.

"When we started development on Maple Ridge, I had an image in my mind of what it was going to be," Swift said. "Ten years later, it is totally different."

He said look at it this way:

"What we have is a concept of taking the mill back to a look of the early 1900s," he said. "But that is what it is, a concept."

Forgive the size, still can't figure how to do thumbnails . . .

Broadway Street
http://www.rivinus.com/2004/images/RS_CRW_5736_RJ.jpg

Singer Opera House
http://www.rivinus.com/2004/images/RS_CRW_5739_RJ.jpg

Golden Park
http://www.ballparkreviews.com/columbga/columb.jpg

Rivercenter
http://www.catweasel.info/Pictures/Columbus-Georgia/DSCN0658.JPG

Civic Center
http://p.vtourist.com/14941-Civic_Center-Columbus.jpg

Courthouse
http://p.vtourist.com/14946-Warnings_or_Dangers-Columbus.jpg

Museum
http://p.vtourist.com/791119-Columbus_Museum-Columbus.jpg

Mattsal -- outstanding! Thanks for sharing. Keep em coming!
I am envious, and wish I had the talent for taking great shots.

1. Picture of building on Broadway is of Rankin Art Center (notice the sign under iron balcony). An old 1870's hotel with a courtyard and now
beautifully restored inside to Victorian elegance. Used for art/dance/etc classes and as dorm for college students. Most of Broadway on both sides has wonderful old buildings that have been or could be restored to this level. Broadway is being relandscaped block by block, and hopefully the as yet unrestored buildings will be returned to former glory.

2. Springer Opera House has been redone and is awesome. It is small but a real jewel. Also I recommend the bar -- though not sure whether it is open only for performances. Dont miss a chance to catch a play there.

3. In my opiniion, Rivercenter is much more impressive on inside than out. All the venues are terrific and I especially like the organ hall. When that thing gets cranked up it is heavenly

4. I think the "Civic Center" is, instead, the campus of TSYS. The Civic Center is further down river, past Golden Park and near the new Civil War Naval Museum. The TYSY campus is on the site of an old mill, and a beautiful old antebellum estate called the Mott House which has been restored on the outside but not inside.

5. The museum is pretty impressive. The permanent collection is extensive and I have seen some very interesting travelling shows there as well. Also the grounds-- though not extensive -- are well maintained and quite nice for strolling. The whole Wynnton area is charming and includes antebellum mansions and bungalows, including the childhood home of Carson McCullars (Heart is A Lonely Hunter, etc) which is now a house museum and workshop for visiting literary figures.

One of my favorite buidlings which is in sore need of restoration is the Empire building at 1st Ave and 12th St. It would make a wonderful condo. Any one who has a shot of it should post it. I also like the small building in 11th St between Ist and Bradway that houses the Tavern restaurant. the detain on that building is incredible! I hear that, in addition to recently announced Eagle & Phenix project previously noted here, an Atlanta developer has bought the old Jordan Mills on 12th Ave and Talbotton Rd with plans to make it into apartment complex designed for residents 55+ yrs, ie, empty nesters. It is an interesting building -- all brick and lots of windows, as is common in Columbus -- and should make for a beautiful complex when done. What is interesting is that this development is directly across from the old Peabody Apts, which have been razed and a new townhouse mixed use development is giong up there. These developments are only a few blocks from the Medical Center and growing concentration of medical offices, which probably explains the 55+ target group. That Medical Center area abuts the East Highland/Waverly Terrace are which I think is probably giong to become the newest urban pioneer area for residential restoration/redevelopment.

Finally, the annual Riverfest Festival is scheduled for the third weekend in April, and April 23 plans include a great evening outdoor concert on teh banks of teh river along teh Riverwalk and fireworks. Assuming teh weather is nice, anyone who can should come, as I think you would have a great time!

You don't seriously think I took all of those pictures, do you? :dunno:

Um . . . thanks anyways. I've never even been to Columbus.

Here is an interesting article from the AJC about Ft. Benning's population boom and what it means to Columbus.

'A business blessing'

By RON MARTZ
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 04/10/05

Columbus — From his office on the east side of I-185, Rob Doll can't quite see the future of this city, but he knows where it is.

The future is just a few miles away, at the southern end of the interstate highway at Fort Benning, one of the Army's key training facilities and the economic engine that drives the region.

Across the country, many communities are breaking out in a cold sweat over the prospect that their bases may show up on the Pentagon's chopping block in little more than six weeks.

But this post, which calls itself "Home of the Infantry" is about to grow. And as Fort Benning grows, so too will Columbus, Phenix City, Ala., and other nearby communities in west-central Georgia and eastern Alabama.

"It's a blessing, a business blessing," said Doll, owner of Rob Doll Nissan and an Army veteran of Vietnam.

Over the next 18 months, 5,400 additional soldiers will be permanently based here.

The majority, about 3,500, will be from the 5th Brigade of the 25th Infantry Division.

The others will be added to a variety of units, including about 900 more trainers. That will push the base's military population to more than 40,000.

The population of Columbus-Phenix City, including the new soldiers and their families, is expected to jump by more than 15,000, said Mayo "Biff" Hadden III, senior vice president of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce.

"It's a great economic shot in the arm," said Hadden.

But with that economic boom will come crowded schools — especially in Muscogee County — a housing pinch, increased traffic and a strain on child care services.

Those anticipated problems could get even worse if Fort Benning adds military personnel from other installations in Europe and throughout the United States as a result of this year's round of Pentagon-mandated base closings. The list of recommended closures will be made public on May 16.

Hadden is spearheading the region's efforts to prepare for the growth and head off potential problems through a coalition of community leaders known as the Fort Benning Futures Partnership.

The cooperation here has been cited by one national organization as a model for other communities where military bases might grow.

"What they have done is create a pretty useful model for other communities dealing with expansion," said Tim Ford, executive director of the Association of Defense Communities, which works with military communities on base closures and expansion.

Influx in Savannah, too

Fort Stewart, home of the 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized), near Savannah, is facing similar growth problems, though not of the same magnitude as Fort Benning's.

Billy Edwards, the city manager for Hinesville, said the division grew from 18,000 to 22,000 soldiers between spring and summer last year as it added a fourth combat brigade. By the time the unit left for Iraq in January, it had 24,000 soldiers.

Many of the soldiers did not bring their families, Edwards said.

But when the unit returns from Iraq early next year, the families are expected to move, increasing the population of Hinesville and surrounding communities and counties by at least 8,000.

That means more housing, more schools and more child care, just like Columbus. A joint land-use study is being conducted, and housing surveys are under way that are expected to present several scenarios for planners to consider to handle the growth.

"We're guardedly optimistic we'll see growth as opposed to diminution," Edwards said. "But you have to be prepared, and we're planning our infrastructure to handle that growth."

At Fort Benning, deputy garrison commander Chuck Walls said he would welcome even more growth.

"We're standing up with our arms open saying we've got space. We've got 184,000 acres here, and you'll never get that kind of acreage again," said Walls.

Fort Benning has become the single source of training for the Army's infantry. Last year, about 15,000 infantry soldiers trained at the post. This year that number will jump to 25,000, said Walls. Over the next three years, a total of 23,000 additional infantry trainees will be added to the Army to meet demands in Iraq and Afghanistan.

All will come through Fort Benning. And while the trainees have little impact on the local economy, those needed to train them do.

The trainers are usually senior enlisted, many of them married with children.

Walls said no new housing will be added to the 4,000 units already on-base, which means most of the new soldiers will have to find places to live off-post.

"We now [build] about 450 spec homes a year. We've got to get that to over 1,000 spec homes a year for the next two years," said the chamber of commerce's Hadden.

In addition, Hadden said, it is estimated that 1,600 more apartment units will be needed to accommodate the new troops and their families.

One of the keys to the construction is managing it in a way that it does not encroach on the base or its missions, said Hadden.

A joint land-use study is now in the works that will provide recommendations for long-term growth around the base, he added.

The additional recruits and the new brigade will be housed on-base in modular facilities. The brigade will eventually get about $400 million worth of permanent structures, but that will be over a 10-year period.

School crunch on way

Local schools will feel a crunch for the next few years as the new students hit town with their soldier parents. But until the houses and apartments are built, the school systems will not know where new schools will be needed, so temporary classrooms are being planned.

Officials here say Muscogee County is likely to be hit hardest by the influx of new students.

Robin Pennock, deputy superintendent for the Muscogee County School District, said her system could receive as many as 3,800 of the 4,700 new students. That would be more than 10 percent growth in 18 months.

"We are very excited and positive about this, but we do face some challenges," said Pennock.

Among those challenges are not knowing where the children will live or what grades they will be in. And that means school officials do not know how many more teachers in any particular grade will be needed.

Pennock said a rough estimate of the cost for additional teachers, portable classrooms, textbooks and other school supplies "could be well in excess of $25 million," about $15 million of which would come from state funds.

"We know we can handle the housing, and we are comfortable we can handle the education piece, although it will take us about three years to bring it fully online. If we do this right, we come out the winner and soldiers come out the winner," said Hadden.

The new brigade originally was scheduled to get to Fort Benning this September. Instead, it will now be next September.

The extra time, said Hadden, will enable area officials to more carefully plan for a complex situation that will have a major social and economic impact on the region.

Anyone have a prediction of which military bases in GA will be affected by BRAC?

I've heard about Columbus. It's coming up in the ranks. In my paper back in Tallahassee, it gives a little information on Columbus' job market. It also states how a lot of big corporations have migrated there, gives statistical info on the metro area as a whole.

Don't know much about Columbus, GA...never been there....I know this much, though... http://www.cnn.com/2005/EDUCATION/05/06/call.suspension.ap/index.html

Here are some great pictures of some of the highrises and new developments around Columbus. I am still figuring out how to post stuff. I am using imageshack.com to post pictures. If anyone could tell me how to post pictures without having to click on the links it would be greatly appreciated.

1) AFLAC Worldwide HQ (20 floors)
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=corpoverviewhq8ox.jpg

2) Amos Cancer Center
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=cancer20center20exterior7uh.jpg

3) Columbus State University's new downtown campus (enrollment 7,500)
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=csuuptown47ca.jpg

4) Columbus State University's new downtown campus
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=csuuptown23lo.jpg

5) New building at Columbus State University's main campus
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=cunninghamcenterlarge5fn.jpg

6) Government Center building downtown (14 floors)
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=governmentcentersmall7gc.jpg

7) Convention Center expansion
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=renovationpic37qj.jpg

8) New Synovus HQ building along the Columbus riverwalk
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=synovus4bw.jpg

9) TSYS HQ in downtown
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=tsys3hb.jpg

10) Columbus Civic Center aerial
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=civiccenter9ih.jpg

11) Shot of Synovus and soon to be converted mill into condos, retail, lofts
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=downtown0fx.jpg

12) New Columbus Library in midtown
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=library5vp.jpg

13) Columbus Regional Medical Center near dowtown
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=medicalcenter23ey.jpg

14) New RiverCenter for the Performing Arts downtown
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=rivercenter2qs.jpg

15) Inside the RiverCenter
http://img1.echo.cx/my.php?image=rivercenter23tr.jpg

Hope you enjoyed it! Some of the pictures are kind of small. Ill work on making them better. If you would like me to post more please tell me!

Columbus will now add an additional 25,000 news residents to the metro area over the next 2 years because of Ft. Benning's expansion. This is a lot more than the expected 10,000-15,000. Columbus is truly exploding with economic growth.

If you want Columbus/Phenix City to grow and succeed, you tell your City leaders, State representatives, and local business leaders, you want to see more transportation connections to your city, including more Interstate construction....

If you want Columbus/Phenix City to grow and succeed, you tell your City leaders, State representatives, and local business leaders, you want to see more transportation connections to your city, including more Interstate construction....

I don't live there anymore, but I do go down to work in the city often. I agree that Columbus does need better transportation connections. A new interstate has been proposed called I-14. I am sure that it will get built. This new highway would benefit Columbus a lot.

I don't live there anymore, but I do go down to work in the city often. I agree that Columbus does need better transportation connections. A new interstate has been proposed called I-14. I am sure that it will get built. This new highway would benefit Columbus a lot.

Any idea about timeframe/route? Could I-14 take the form of upgrading
FallLine Freeway to Interstate specs? That, to me, seems like the expediant thing to do. Then, a short connection from Columbus west to tie into I 85 South and you're done. Likewise, US 27 south from Chattanooga could be similarly upgraded to interstate specs to tie into I-185, and then US 27 south from Columbus upgraded to tie into I 10 in Fla.

If these two projects were done, then Columbus would have interstate connections to Atlantic (new I-14 to Macon, then existing I-16 to Savannah), Gulf (new US 27 South), to midwest (new US 27 North),to Atlanta (existing I-185), and Montgomery and points west (I-14 to existing I-85).

Though this may seem ambitious, it would be a quick and relatively cheap way to achieve a pretty significant impact. No need to acquire (much) additional rights-of-way, relieves Atlanta from some of the FLA-bound traffic coming from midwest, enhances west GA/east ALA for development, etc. I think that Columbus should use BRAC to leverage state/feds into up grades of roads. After all, national defense was justification for the interstate system.

Any idea about timeframe/route? Could I-14 take the form of upgrading
FallLine Freeway to Interstate specs? That, to me, seems like the expediant thing to do. Then, a short connection from Columbus west to tie into I 85 South and you're done. Likewise, US 27 south from Chattanooga could be similarly upgraded to interstate specs to tie into I-185, and then US 27 south from Columbus upgraded to tie into I 10 in Fla.

If these two projects were done, then Columbus would have interstate connections to Atlantic (new I-14 to Macon, then existing I-16 to Savannah), Gulf (new US 27 South), to midwest (new US 27 North),to Atlanta (existing I-185), and Montgomery and points west (I-14 to existing I-85).

Though this may seem ambitious, it would be a quick and relatively cheap way to achieve a pretty significant impact. No need to acquire (much) additional rights-of-way, relieves Atlanta from some of the FLA-bound traffic coming from midwest, enhances west GA/east ALA for development, etc. I think that Columbus should use BRAC to leverage state/feds into up grades of roads. After all, national defense was justification for the interstate system.

I haven't heard of a timeframe for I-14. The plan is to use the FallLine Freeway that is already completed. I-14 is really being pushed by Senators, especially the Senator from Mississippi. It will be built, but I just don't know when. Since it's my hometown, I try to keep up with all of the development, but I haven't heard anything new. A guy I work with that lives in Columbus said there has been a lot of talk about the new interstate. He said there have been talks of expanding I-185 down to I-10 also. I-14 will be constructed, hopefully sooner than later. US 27 is being widened from north Columbus up into Harris County. That road is traveled a lot and has become a direct route to the northern suburbs in Harris County.

Thanx for info. Familiar with 27 in Harris County, as I use it to get into town when I am at my weekend place in Pine Mt. I understand that eventually will be
widened past Cataula but not all the way to Hamilton. Not really begun yet -- only some new passing lanes (which help). When completed should help my property value -- not that I am selling. :) Unfortunately 27 has become a nitemare
once you get into town with all the development around Columbus Crossing.
That is why using existing I185 as basis for new connection between Chattanooga and FLA panhandle makes sense.
To my mind a North-South connection would be more valuable than I14. Could become a new alternative route to FLA over I75 and bring lots of Yankee traffic and $$ thru town :) I14 would probably help Augusta and Macon more than Columbus -- tho I do see the benefit of connecting Columbus to Savannah and the Atlantic.

Checked on GDOT web site. FallLine Fwy almost complete from Columbus-Macon. Macon-Augusta less so. Of course there is the big problem of routing thru Macon (Ocmulgee Mound site)
Also 4-laning of US 27 is proceeding apace. Seems that Chattanooga-LaGrange (where it connects to I-185 South) is almost completed. Columbus south to FLA less so. But seems that all (or most) portions are in some stage of work.

Not sure exactly when either project will be completed. Hopefully the Ga. delegation will push for interstate status for US 27 and join with other delegations (SC, ALA, MS) on turning FallLine Fwy into I-14.
On my "wish list" is a new hwy (interstate if possible) from Columbus to B'ham (via Lake Martin area) . That woud be entirely in the hands of AL , but considering how rapidly the Lee County (Auburn-Opelika) area is growing, it makes sense to connect the two areas. Not sure if anyone has proposed it.
One thing that pretty much amazes me is that "the powers that be" in Columbus seem (on the suface at any rate) to be relatively unconcerned about the lack of transportation infrastruction in the area. I realize that the other things like downtown development/river restoration/Inantry museum etc are important. But unless folks can get to those amenties easily, they can become white elephants.

Checked on GDOT web site. FallLine Fwy almost complete from Columbus-Macon. Macon-Augusta less so. Of course there is the big problem of routing thru Macon (Ocmulgee Mound site)
Also 4-laning of US 27 is proceeding apace. Seems that Chattanooga-LaGrange (where it connects to I-185 South) is almost completed. Columbus south to FLA less so. But seems that all (or most) portions are in some stage of work.

Not sure exactly when either project will be completed. Hopefully the GA delegation will push for interstate status for US 27 and join with other delegations (SC, ALA, MS) on turning FallLine Fwy into I-14.
On my "wish list" is a new hwy (interstate if possible) from Columbus to B'ham (via Lake Martin area) . That woud be entirely in the hands of ALA , but considering how rapidly the Lee County (Auburn-Opelika) area is growing, it makes sense to connect the two areas. Not sure if anyone has proposed it.
One thing that pretty much amazes me is that "the powers that be" in Columbus seem (on the suface at any rate) to be relatively unconcerned about the lack of transportation infrastruction in the area. I realize that the other things like downtown development/river restoration/Infantry museum etc are important. But unless folks can get to those amenties easily, they can become white elephants.

On my "wish list" is a new hwy (interstate if possible) from Columbus to B'ham (via Lake Martin area) . That woud be entirely in the hands of AL , but considering how rapidly the Lee County (Auburn-Opelika) area is growing, it makes sense to connect the two areas.
Don't keep your hopes up on this project. If it took AL 20 years to widen this same stretch of highway (US 280), it would take the state much, much longer to upgrade it to interstate access. Most of AL's interstate money for the next decade is going into I-22, Bham's Northern Beltline and Hsv's Southern Bypass, and I doubt that it will ever be a "top priority" project.
That I-14 looks pretty interesting. From the pictures that I have seen in the newspaper, it looks like it will use about the same route as AL's proposed I-85 extension from Montgomery to Cuba, a small town on the AL/MS border. But that other route that they are proposing (I-3?) is ridiculous. Instead of starting it from Savannah, they should start it in Atlanta, using one of the existing interstates (575, 985) and extending it to Knoxville. But the project would be very expensive due to all the mountains the highway would have to go through.

Checked on GDOT web site. FallLine Fwy almost complete from Columbus-Macon. Macon-Augusta less so. Of course there is the big problem of routing thru Macon (Ocmulgee Mound site)
Also 4-laning of US 27 is proceeding apace. Seems that Chattanooga-LaGrange (where it connects to I-185 South) is almost completed. Columbus south to FLA less so. But seems that all (or most) portions are in some stage of work.

Not sure exactly when either project will be completed. Hopefully the GA delegation will push for interstate status for US 27 and join with other delegations (SC, ALA, MS) on turning FallLine Fwy into I-14.
On my "wish list" is a new hwy (interstate if possible) from Columbus to B'ham (via Lake Martin area) . That woud be entirely in the hands of ALA , but considering how rapidly the Lee County (Auburn-Opelika) area is growing, it makes sense to connect the two areas. Not sure if anyone has proposed it.
One thing that pretty much amazes me is that "the powers that be" in Columbus seem (on the suface at any rate) to be relatively unconcerned about the lack of transportation infrastruction in the area. I realize that the other things like downtown development/river restoration/Infantry museum etc are important. But unless folks can get to those amenties easily, they can become white elephants.

Thanks for the new information. The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer reported a few months back that Columbus is about to undergo a massive transportation overhaul with new roads and widening's. It is over 1/2 billion in construction. The idea of making U.S. 280 from Columbus (through Auburn/Opelika) to Birmingham would be great. The chance of it happening anytime soon is doubtful. You are right about Auburn/Opelika exploding with growth. Both Columbus and Auburn/Opelika feed off of each other which is a good thing. U.S. 27 construction and the proposed I-14 should be Columbus's top priority for the coming years.

Extending I-10 north to Columbus should be a priority in the next decade. It would reduce the traffic going on 75 to Atlanta.

As long as we are dreaming, how about interstate status for Corridor Z (4-lane
which runs from Columbus to Bruswick)? Brunswick is up-and-coming port, and
connecting Columbus to I-95 south of Savannah would give ready access to Jax.
Routing traffic from S Atlantic ports (Savannah, Brunswick, Jax, and evenCharleston) thru Columbus to points west and mid-west would make alot of sense, not to metion relieving a lot of commercial traffic in Atlanta area. Right now, an awful lot of unnecessary commercial-vacation traffic is funnelled thru Atlanta, which a west GA interstate (ie, US 27) and cross-GA interstates (I-14/I-16 and Corridor Z) could alleviate.
Hopefully, as Auburn/Opelika grows, ALA will consider seriously connecting to B'ham. Seems that growth is really taking off there -- as Lee County recently "stole" a prospect from Columbus (a German dialysis concern I think it was) and I see that several new projects have been announced.
BTW, any thoughts about how soon Lee County will become part of the Columbus SMSA? Southern Lee County (Smiths) is booming and really a suburb of Columbus/PC. Also, when new folks arrive via BRAC, those who move to Lee will be working in Muscogee/Chattahoochee. Maybe then the migration flows wil be enough to warrant inclusion of Lee or a consolidated Columbus/Auburn/Opelika SMSA. The inclusion of an extra 125-150k Lee County folks (plus BRAC influx) would put Columbus nipping at Augusta's heels population-wise (BTW, Aiken County in SC seems no more connected to Augusta than Lee is to Columbus, tho I guess that the migration flows there support its inclusion)
Seems that FLA would support west GA interstate, as would have the potential for getting folks thru GA to the beaches faster (by avoiding Atlanta) and also open up Panhandle for some of the development that is now concentrated aaround Tampa on the Gulf and Miami on the Atlantic.

As long as we are dreaming, how about interstate status for Corridor Z (4-lane
which runs from Columbus to Bruswick)? Brunswick is up-and-coming port, and
connecting Columbus to I-95 south of Savannah would give ready access to Jax.
Routing traffic from S Atlantic ports (Savannah, Brunswick, Jax, and evenCharleston) thru Columbus to points west and mid-west would make alot of sense, not to metion relieving a lot of commercial traffic in Atlanta area. Right now, an awful lot of unnecessary commercial-vacation traffic is funnelled thru Atlanta, which a west GA interstate (ie, US 27) and cross-GA interstates (I-14/I-16 and Corridor Z) could alleviate.
Hopefully, as Auburn/Opelika grows, ALA will consider seriously connecting to B'ham. Seems that growth is really taking off there -- as Lee County recently "stole" a prospect from Columbus (a German dialysis concern I think it was) and I see that several new projects have been announced.
BTW, any thoughts about how soon Lee County will become part of the Columbus SMSA? Southern Lee County (Smiths) is booming and really a suburb of Columbus/PC. Also, when new folks arrive via BRAC, those who move to Lee will be working in Muscogee/Chattahoochee. Maybe then the migration flows wil be enough to warrant inclusion of Lee or a consolidated Columbus/Auburn/Opelika SMSA. The inclusion of an extra 125-150k Lee County folks (plus BRAC influx) would put Columbus nipping at Augusta's heels population-wise (BTW, Aiken County in SC seems no more connected to Augusta than Lee is to Columbus, tho I guess that the migration flows there support its inclusion)
Seems that FLA would support west GA interstate, as would have the potential for getting folks thru GA to the beaches faster (by avoiding Atlanta) and also open up Panhandle for some of the development that is now concentrated aaround Tampa on the Gulf and Miami on the Atlantic.

I think that Lee Co. will be connected to Columbus's MSA soon. Many people are moving to the Smiths Station area. Smith Station has a population around 26,000. It is right across the river from Columbus. Many people who live there work in Columbus. People of this region consider Columbus/Auburn/Opelika as one area. It just doesn't show in Columbus's MSA because Auburn/Opelika has its own MSA. Once Lee Co. becomes part of Columbus's MSA and with all the new troops (I heard up to 25,000 new residents over the next 2 years), Columbus will easily take over Augusta in population. Also, if the proposed interstates become a reality, it is no telling how big Columbus will be in 30 years.

Looks like return of white water in downtown is coming closer. Federal
funding on tap. Construction (actually, DEconstruction of two dams) may begin as soon as next year. 2.3 mile stretch right thru town, past the new Eagle/Phenix development and new CSU 30 million dollar
theater/art gallery presently under construction. Also, two new 5-story dorms and
parking deck started downtown to house CSU students attending classes at the new theater/art school.
Am wondering what effect the Supreme Court ruling yesterday regarding use of eminent domain for private development might have on Columbus and similarly situated cities looking toward reviotalization. Cant help but think that the ruling will push along redevelopment and could be especially helpful in ramping up the proposed revitailzation of the riverfront on the ALA side.

Also, where is everyone? Let's get this thread moving again! :)

I disagree about Aiken not being that connected to Augusta. While it is not 100% continously built up on the main highway, (whatever that Highway name is...) It is pretty much continously built up on some of the backroads. Remember there are like 4 small towns in-between Augusta and Aiken, (which is only like 15 miles). You go from one of those little towns right into the next and then to the next before you get to Aiken. After Bobby Jones Expressway is finished in North Augusta, that area will start booming.
Also alot of Aikenites dont like to be considered a part of the Augusta area as it has its own unique history and beauty and lots of unnecceary snobbery.
Also....From what I hear Fort Gordon is planning on adding lots of new troops too. BUT, Augusta really doesnt need Fort Gordon to keep people moving in. There are tons of people moving there from other industries, I think the MSA already has 515,000.

The point is NOT that Aiken and Augusta are not connected. It is that Columbus and Auburn/Opelika appear to be no LESS connected. Thus, if Aiken is counted in Augusta''s SMSA, then seems that Lee County should be included in Columbus'. The inclusion of 125K from Lee County would push Columbus' SMSA population to over 400K. Which would not top Augusta, but would put Columbus pretty close behind and clearly establish Columbus SMSA as the third largest in GA -- with a bullet. :) (All alllusions to FT Benning intentional)
Ft Gordon does not appear to listed in official BRAC report -- which is good news as does not signify major loss of manpower. However, the downside is that it also signifies no major gain in manpower either. Benning gets total of 9839 NEW military jobs (not counting dependents) and projected increase in civilian jobs as byproduct of increased military presence.
Third lLARGEST increase of any base (think that Bliss and Hood in Texas are scheduled for slightly larger increases) Also, Benning will probably grow soon as troops are rotated out of Europe and back home.
Back to Lee County -- granted the 25-30 miles between Columbus and Auburn?opelika is not as built up as between Augusta and Aiken. BUT, there is currently no interstate from Columbus to A/O, unlike A/A. AND Smith's Station (in S. LEE County) is growing rapidly. The space between Columus and A/O is becoming more and more developed. Therefore, at some point (sooner rather than later) I think there will be a merger of Columbus and A/O for SMSA purposes. Likewise, Harris County (north of Columbus) is not as populated as Columbia County (North west of Augusta). Currrent population is approching 30K. However, Harris too is growing rapidly and that should continue as it becomes a bedroom community fro Columbus (and maybe for Atlanta as well)
Also, Augusta seems cursed with corrupt politicians (Walker, etc). The politicians in Columbus see (though thta could be an illusion) above-board and cooperate with the business community. Cannot help but think that the stability of the political scene will be a benefit to Columbus in its development.

Gah, do you think any major commercial developments will pop up in Harris County. Columbus is running out of land for development fast. The only other alternative would be to go north (Harris Co.) or east (Talbot Co.). What about commercial development along I-185? Since Columbus has to move north and Atlanta is moving south, I would think more commercial development will spring up along I-185.

The area from Columbus to Atlanta is destined for huge comercial development.

Good question. I am unaware of anything planned for I185 corridor at present. Think that St. Francis Hospital has assembled property at one of the intersections for a major future development, but believe that it is in Muscogee, not Harris. Also suspect (but dont know for sure) that WC Bradley and/or Flournoy have major holdings at most, if not all, of the intersections with I185 in N. Muscogee and S. Harris.
What I do know for sure about Harris County is that they want commercial development but are very very picky. Wont settle for just any old thing. Hence, I suspect that will stay focused on residential for foreseeable future and, sooner or later, the tipping point will be reached and we will then see some major commercial developments atleast at the close-in I185 Harris intersections (ie, Mulberry Grove, Hamilton).
As for Talbot, the word I get is that plans are to treat damn near the whole county as a potential commercial/industrial park. Lots of (cheap, flat) land, and very few people. Thus, the recent extension of water lines into Talbot.
Therefore, the way I see the Columbus area developing is this:
Harris will continue residential for foreseeable future with up-scale commercial in the cards at some point. That is especially true as Atlanta's growth turns southward, and Harris becomes southernmost Atlanta suburb and Columbus' northern most. (Remember that I own property there, so I may not be an impartial observer).
Talbot willl get the blue-collar, industrial, manufacturing commercial growth and the lower-end residential developments. Ga 85 will be 4-laned from Ellersie to Manchester/Talbotton and become connection between those outlying areas and Columbus.
Chattahoochee will stay, if not become more, military-oriented (both residentialy and commercially).
Marion will remain rural with possible military overtones and some light industrial
Muscogee/Russell will continue to urbanize with primary focus along river (both sides), escalating once whitewater becomes a reality. Tourism/education/whitecollar/restaurants/hotels/bars will predominant as linear development flows north from traditional downtown to Bibb City (which is currently gentrifying) where northern anchor will be huge Bibb Mill development (which I can see as condos/shops) at point where whitewater begins. Both commercial/residential development on Columbus side, with Russell side being mostly residential.
Lee County will be a hybrid with residential predominant on southside (Smiths) and commercial/industrial in the north(A/O)
It is an interesting patchwork with each county essentially being "zoned" for different uses. What do you think? Comments? Interested in what you and others think.

The area from Columbus to Atlanta is destined for huge comercial development.
Would be very interested in hearing why you think that. Also, I guess you mean the I85/I185 corridor - the western route (Atlanta'Newnan/Lagrange/Columbus)? I could also see a more easterly route developing (maybe secondarily) from Fayetteville/Senoia/Manchester/Columbus.
Meriwether County (Manchester) is already in Atlanta SMA, so that Columbus SMA and Atlanta SMA already touch at that eastern point.

gah, you are right about the politicians in Augusta...very corrupt...it is a shame. More Power to Columbus if it does gain Lee Co. I am all for growth in Georgia cities...

Good question. I am unaware of anything planned for I185 corridor at present. Think that St. Francis Hospital has assembled property at one of the intersections for a major future development, but believe that it is in Muscogee, not Harris. Also suspect (but dont know for sure) that WC Bradley and/or Flournoy have major holdings at most, if not all, of the intersections with I185 in N. Muscogee and S. Harris.
What I do know for sure about Harris County is that they want commercial development but are very very picky. Wont settle for just any old thing. Hence, I suspect that will stay focused on residential for foreseeable future and, sooner or later, the tipping point will be reached and we will then see some major commercial developments atleast at the close-in I185 Harris intersections (ie, Mulberry Grove, Hamilton).
As for Talbot, the word I get is that plans are to treat damn near the whole county as a potential commercial/industrial park. Lots of (cheap, flat) land, and very few people. Thus, the recent extension of water lines into Talbot.
Therefore, the way I see the Columbus area developing is this:
Harris will continue residential for foreseeable future with up-scale commercial in the cards at some point. That is especially true as Atlanta's growth turns southward, and Harris becomes southernmost Atlanta suburb and Columbus' northern most. (Remember that I own property there, so I may not be an impartial observer).
Talbot willl get the blue-collar, industrial, manufacturing commercial growth and the lower-end residential developments. Ga 85 will be 4-laned from Ellersie to Manchester/Talbotton and become connection between those outlying areas and Columbus.
Chattahoochee will stay, if not become more, military-oriented (both residentialy and commercially).
Marion will remain rural with possible military overtones and some light industrial
Muscogee/Russell will continue to urbanize with primary focus along river (both sides), escalating once whitewater becomes a reality. Tourism/education/whitecollar/restaurants/hotels/bars will predominant as linear development flows north from traditional downtown to Bibb City (which is currently gentrifying) where northern anchor will be huge Bibb Mill development (which I can see as condos/shops) at point where whitewater begins. Both commercial/residential development on Columbus side, with Russell side being mostly residential.
Lee County will be a hybrid with residential predominant on southside (Smiths) and commercial/industrial in the north(A/O)
It is an interesting patchwork with each county essentially being "zoned" for different uses. What do you think? Comments? Interested in what you and others think.

I agree with everything you said. Hopefully St. Francis will build a new hospital on that land. Since all of the growth is headed that way, I think it would be a great place for a new hospital. There is already some type of large doctors office being built in that area. Maybe it's the beginning of the development? Harris Co. does seem to be very picky when it comes to commercial development. Before 9/11, a $1 billion dollar golf community was going to be built off of I-185 on 1,000 acres. It wasn't built because the economy went down due to the attacks. Also, the World's Children Center had planned to build a huge community in the same area. Unfortunately, the residents of that area voted it down. I personally think it would have been a great investment for Harris Co. Hopefully, Harris Co. will open up and allow major developments like this. The county needs the tax revenue to continue to fund the construction of new schools because of the population explosion. I see Harris Co. becoming the Gwinnett Co. for Columbus, IF they (planning commission, etc.) open up their arms to commercial development, not just residential. They need to replace the current council members with pro-growth members. Once that happens, the Columbus metro region will explode with more economic development as well as population. Columbus will become an even more important economic powerhouse in the Southeast. Columbus's proximity to Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Airport is the key!

Also, I thought this was interesting and great for Columbus. According to ACBJ (American City Business Journals), Columbus was voted as one of the top cities for personal income growth between 2000-2003.

Fastest growth: from http://atlanta.bizjournals.com/edit_special/17.html

New Orleans
Shreveport, La.
Columbus, Ga.
Montgomery, Ala.
Fayetteville, N.C.
El Paso, Texas
Charleston, W.Va.
South Bend, Ind.
Anchorage
McAllen, Texas

ALTMAN 1 -- I may be suffering from NIMBY, but I actually LIKE the fact that Harris County is picky about development and skewed towards residential over commercial. Golfing community would be more of the same (Callaway) and Children's Center would be okay and give good press, BUT not exactly a financial windfall for county (mostly tax exempt) and would be disruptive of residential charater of that part of the county with established homes/farms. So that property (which is on 316 I think) could probably be put to "better" use (not meant as a slam on children!) I agree that Harris needs more commercial/industrial development. But not helter skelter Gwinnett County develpment. Granted taxes need to be inhanced BUT considering that the MINIMUM lot size in Harris is now set a 2 acres future residential development will be more upscale and, hence, revenue producing. So consistency, congruity mandats that any commercial/industrial sholud likewise be more upscale (Harris was one of the places AMD identified for chip plant, with new Muscogee Tech Park the other). So, I see Harris becoming the "gated community" for Columbus -- with Peachtree City, rather than Gwinnett, being the model. The Gwinnett analogy may be more apt in connection with Chattahoochee and/or Talbot. The thought of a Jimmy Carter Blvd in Harris appalls me!
Not sure whether St Francis plans on hospital or merely medical park with assisted living community. At any rate, "demographics is destiny," so that area of northern Muscogee/southern Harris is going to get more schools AND medical service facilities.
Would not be surprised that a new cemetery is on the drawing boards! (Actually I think I heard that one WAS being planned!)

The Rail-toTrail project is on track (no pun intended) and scheduled to begin construction by mid-2006. It will connect DT to CSU campus and then Cooper Creek (tennis center). Eventually will extend into suburbs near Flat Rock Park. What makes this somewhat unique is that DT terminus will be old 14th St bridge which willl be converted into pedestrian mall connecting Phenix City with Columbus with TSYS campus to immediate north and the new Eagle-Phenix Mill condo project to the imnmediate south. New pedestrian bridge will have outdoor cafes overlooking river
and have great views of new whitewater project (also scheduled to begin next year).
At that point, visitor will have option to
1. go north on Riverwalk past TYSYS all the way to whitewater put-in
near old Bibb Mill (which has new antique mall)
2. go south on Riverwalk (on either PC or Columbus side) past whitewater take-out at Dillingham, Port Columbus Civil War Museum on Victory , Oxbow Meadows Center on S. Lumpkin (where new marina may be built) and all the way to new $70 million Infantry Museum
3. Take new trail past medical centers, new townhouse development where old Peabody Aptts were razed to CSU and Cooper Creek

Just another part of the effort to improve the quality of life. We may be behind some other cities, but we are in there trying!

The Rail-toTrail project is on track (no pun intended) and scheduled to begin construction by mid-2006. It will connect DT to CSU campus and then Cooper Creek (tennis center). Eventually will extend into suburbs near Flat Rock Park. What makes this somewhat unique is that DT terminus will be old 14th St bridge which willl be converted into pedestrian mall connecting Phenix City with Columbus with TSYS campus to immediate north and the new Eagle-Phenix Mill condo project to the imnmediate south. New pedestrian bridge will have outdoor cafes overlooking river
and have great views of new whitewater project (also scheduled to begin next year).
At that point, visitor will have option to
1. go north on Riverwalk past TYSYS all the way to whitewater put-in
near old Bibb Mill (which has new antique mall)
2. go south on Riverwalk (on either PC or Columbus side) past whitewater take-out at Dillingham, Port Columbus Civil War Museum on Victory , Oxbow Meadows Center on S. Lumpkin (where new marina may be built) and all the way to new $70 million Infantry Museum
3. Take new trail past medical centers, new townhouse development where old Peabody Aptts were razed to CSU and Cooper Creek

Just another part of the effort to improve the quality of life. We may be behind some other cities, but we are in there trying!

The rail-to-trails project will be nice. I am glad to see it finally get off of the ground. I believe Columbus is way ahead of the other cities in its size range (Savannah, Augusta, and Macon). Columbus has great leaders. They are doing an excellent job building this city. You talk to anyone from around GA and they would say they envy the progress Columbus has made over the last 10 years. No other city IMO has seen the tremendous growth that Columbus has experienced. Everyday it seems like something new is coming to the city!

Atlanta developer receives $500,000 grant, now awaits low-income and historic tax credits for an apartment complex for seniors. The developer of the $13 million project plans 101 two-bedroom units. The complex will include amenities such as a fitness center, a media center, sitting areas and craft rooms. The developer's preliminary plans call for demolishing about 70,000 square feet of the 200,000-square-foot mill. The plant's signature smokestack and water tower will be retained. A portion of the structure that is to be razed stands in the right-of-way of the future widening of Talbotton Road. Residents should be occupying the facility by fall 2007.

hey Atlman1, what is the status on the dams comming out of the river?

I need to make sure I get the "before" photos I want to go with the "after" photos I will take for an article I am going to write.

hey Atlman1, what is the status on the dams comming out of the river?

I need to make sure I get the "before" photos I want to go with the "after" photos I will take for an article I am going to write.


Wont horn-in on your inquiry to Atlman, but if you are interested in seeing some views of project (with some projections of how river will look after dams are breached) go to

www.phenixcityriverfront.org

then hit "Previous Presentations" and then "Presentation # 1 - 2003 Whitewater Foundation."

thanks gah

hey Atlman1, what is the status on the dams comming out of the river?

I need to make sure I get the "before" photos I want to go with the "after" photos I will take for an article I am going to write.

Sorry for taking so long to respond. I am not sure when exactly they plan to begin the transformation. The website Gah gave you will hopefully give you all of the details. All I have heard is sometime in 2006. Sorry I can't be more specific.

Here are some other metro Columbus developments:

1) The Wyndham Hotel downtown has been purchased by Marriott. Marriott will be a great addition to downtown.

2) More good news for Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain. A $20 million dollar 5 story 150-room hotel and spa will be built beside the Southern Pines Conference Center by September 2006. Also, 611 new homes are planned inside Callaway Gardens as well as other new facilities

The Columbus Wyndham Hotel that is located downtown has been purchased by Marriott Hotels. The 177-room 6-story hotel has been converted over to the Marriott name. This is really great for downtown and the new convention center. There have been talks of expanding the Columbus Marriott. Hopefully, this will bring in more new hotels along the riverwalk area downtown.

I like what they're doing downtown...in five years it should be really really good. The Cannon Brewpub rules.

Check out http://www.columbusmuseum.com/home.html This museum is FREE! (donations welcomed). It's one of my favourite museums I've ever been to. For its size it has one of the most satisfying collections. I almost like it better than the High.

With the additional growth Columbus will experience with the expansion of Ft Benning , some 25000 plus new residents, do you think this could put Columbus as Georgia 2nd largest city? Just how does this city compare in economics and size to Macon, Savannah and Augusta?

Yes, Marriott is a coup for downtown. But, the problem for expansion and/or new hotels as I see it is the "chicken or the egg" dilemma. No new hotels without bigger conventions, but no bigger conventions without new hotels. The expanded Ironswork Center is beautiful and should attract some regional conventions. What I suspect is that there will be some new smaller boutique hotels opening (The Empire Building at 12th and Ist comes to mind) as whitewater, new Infantry museum and convention business expands. Then a bigger national hotel (maybe a tall one, ATLMAN!) in PC at Dillingham Bridge area (across from Ironworks). Another possibility is the block on the river between the new bridge and TSYS campus. Heard that block is open for some sort of hotel/condo/retail development by WC Bradley, as part of their Eagle/Phenix Mill project. Hiwever, WC Bradley is pretty conservative, so I dont expect anything spectacular anytime soon. I suspect that the 5-year time table is about right, with 10 being probably more likely unless something extraordinary happens (like AMD deciding to go forward with their $2-3 billion chip plant that was proposed for Columbus but ended up in Singapore). BTW, glad to know there is a fellow lover of Cannon Brew Pub. One of my fav places. Also the museum is great (my brother was an architect for it). Unfortunately the DT museum branch in Rankin Center closed due to poor attendence. The Port Columbus Civil War Naval Museum is outstanding. And I hear the new Infantry Museum will blow your socks off. But it is 2-3 years from opening.
Columbus and Augusta are pretty much tied for 2d pace in most categories. Lee County AL is not included in Columbus MSMA, hereas Aiken SC is in Augusta's. That will probably change soon, as new soldiers move to Lee and work in Muscogee or Chattahoochee. The %'s will then be such as to warrant including Lee County or, at least a Columbus/Auburn/Opelika combined SMA of ~ 500k. T taht poit, Columbus and Augusta will be pretty even. As for future, I have said before the edge has to go to Columbus at present because its politicians are much better (or atleast perceived to be less corrupt) and it has more potential (at least at present) in form of expanded FT Benning, new interstates, West Ga Freeway, whitewater, and DT resurgence, as well as AFLAC and Synovus. At any rate, I see Columbus and Augusta vying for second place behind Atlanta for a long while, with Savannah not far behind and Macon probably bringing up the rear. Valdosta will probably surpass Albany as the "capital of S. Ga" and be close to 2d tier at some point soon.

Its really great Columbus is getting the attention it is on this site and it should. I am a fan of the Cannon Brew pub as well. The brew is a little strong, but it is a good atmosphere. The ironworks center is a beautiful place and Columbus should continue to invest in that place. Would have been really nice if TSYS would have built straight up instead of sprawled out its campus. That would have created a decent highrise downtown of probably atleast 20 stories high. Still very nice building. I also think they need to invest in making South Columbus a more attractive place to live and work. I think Columbus is at a critical point in time for a city its size, and they have the opportunity to control its destiny befrore this ressurgence in growth. They should look strongly at smart growth plans and the near future even now the suburbs are sharing alot of growth especially Harris county. Harris county is beautiful with warm springs pine mountain and Callaway gardens to name a few. The terrain their is beautiful, they should try preserve some of these natural resources while they can.

unless I am mistaken TSYS has a ggod deal of avaialble property left on campus for expansion. Isnt City Mills included in their campus. Plus the area north is a logical place for expansion with the riverwalk and views of the new white water couse. I would not be surprised if at some point TSYS built a highrise in that location. I am on record as saying that a new linear DT will develop uo to Bibb Mills development and tyhe logical southern anchor is TSYS. I hope they do it soon. Frankly I am disappointed in the buildings there now -- not only low rise but also uninspired architecture. But the site is magnificent. Already expounded on Harris County and I am sure that it wont be losing its beauty to sprawl anytime soon. BTW, come up to FDR for hike evry month. Check out pine mountain trail association web site . Think our next hike is in 3 weeks on Sat Sept 24 @ 10 am.

I would love to hike the trail, maybe next time when I come home Ill check it out, right now I live in California, but I miss home in Columbus. Should see alot of changes when I come home, its been two years since Ive been there last. Theres such a strong since of community there and slower pace of life and friendly people. California is cool too in its own ways. Much of alot of growth there is taking place in the back yard of where I grew up pretty much, Cols park crossing area, whitesville rd. I grew up near Weems Rd and Moon rd area.

I would love to hike the trail, maybe next time when I come home Ill check it out, right now I live in California, but I miss home in Columbus. Should see alot of changes when I come home, its been two years since Ive been there last. Theres such a strong since of community there and slower pace of life and friendly people. California is cool too in its own ways. Much of alot of growth there is taking place in the back yard of where I grew up pretty much, Cols park crossing area, whitesville rd. I grew up near Weems Rd and Moon rd area.

When are you coming back? There have been a lot of changes in the last 2 years. The Columbus Park area is on fire with new developments. The area is undergoing a new phase that will bring in more hotels, restaurants, and retail. You probably won't even recognize that area when you get back. It seems like Columbus has taken off like a rocket in the last 5 years. There are so many things under construction or proposed.

I remember as a kid playing in the woods where highway 80 runs and where Cols park crossing is. We moved to Springlake, Ginger Creek area neighborhood by Weems Rd and Moon Rd in '77 and I tell you this was the furthermost outreach of Columbus beyond this was just pure country and now its some of the hottest development in town. I remember when I went to Shaw high School in the the late 80's earrly 90's what it was like and now there are houses all over that area. My dad says restaurausts are poppin up like crazy. I cant wait to see for my self!!!

Right now were planning on going home in April. Everytime I go home my dad rides me all over town and shows me everything that is new Im going to have to have me a Dingelwood hot dog when I get down there!!! My dad said he met a soldier and his wife at a restauraunt out at Cols Park crossing area and they said the area is beautiful. If leadership and gov't play there cards right and make the right investments Cols can evolve into something big!!!

I remember as a kid playing in the woods where highway 80 runs and where Cols park crossing is. We moved to Springlake, Ginger Creek area neighborhood by Weems Rd and Moon Rd in '77 and I tell you this was the furthermost outreach of Columbus beyond this was just pure country and now its some of the hottest development in town. I remember when I went to Shaw high School in the the late 80's earrly 90's what it was like and now there are houses all over that area. My dad says restaurausts are poppin up like crazy. I cant wait to see for my self!!!

I know I will get !$#%^$%^&% for this but, at the risk of being the skunk at the garden party, I am not all that impressed about the development @ Columbus X-ing. First of all, it is sprawl at its worst, and fast becoming another Macon Rd or, God forbid, Jimmy Carter Blvd. It is already a traffic nitemare (by Columbus, not Atlanta, standards). Hwy 27 is not planned to be fully expandedfor EIGHT more years. The developer is Atlanta-based, so has no interest other than maxing out $$$. The design is blah and, for the most part, it is based on programmed obsolesence (geared toward cars) and, like Macon Rd, will flourish as a commercial center for a while and then be replaced rather than retain its appeal. All in all, seems that it is an example of the false but prevalent notion that bigger = better. I think a MUCH better idea would be to emulate the Mall of Georgia. Yes, the amenities are nice (restaurants, shops) but it could and should have been done in a Much more tasteful and classy way -- rather than a long strip center which requires that you drive from store to store -- especially in the summer and in the rain at any time. One thing I fear is that Columbus has been isolated and a backwater for so long that it grabs at any development without thinking of the consequences or long-term quality of life. One of the benefits of being a backwater is that Columbus has missed alot of the tackiness that permeates other places in the South (like Gwinnett) and has an ambiance that, if not identical to that of the late and lamented New Orleans, is still somewhat distinctive to rivertowns. Hence, the downtown area which is undergoing a revival, not necessarily a total rebuilding (compare Atlanta). (If you have not guessed, I am a member of the Historic Columbus Society, which I hope that readers of this thread will consider joining or, at least, checking out our web page). I kind of like the new city slogan -- "What progress has preserved." I just hope that, in the rush to make up for lost time, Columbus does not fall into the "development at any cost" mentality that other towns have bought into. Also, a problem is the inferiority complex that Southern cities sometimes feel (example is Atlanta which MUST compare itself to NYC rather than rely on its own style). That explains the recent controversy in which the library board vote to pay a NY artist 250 k for a sculpture to stand in front of the new building (on Macon Rd where the mall USED to be!) -- when there are local artists who would love the commission and a new art center is being developed at CSU. I am not advocating a return to insularity, but think that we need to question whether the opposite extreme is the answer. I love the new shops, restaurants, theaters, etc. My concern is how they are coming on line. I am currently in "exile" here in Atlanta, but hope to return to the Columbus area at some point soon (146 weeks and 1 day, but who's counting?) . When I do, I hope that I will be coming back to a city with some distinction and not a smaller version of the New York of the South!
Comments? I am prepared for brickbats, as well as bouquets!

Heres a great website about the history of the area. You may have already seen it. Heres the post anyway.
http://www.metrocolumbus.info/History-Genealogy/index.htm

check this out as well: http://www.angelfire.com/weird2/georgia/page9.html
Have you ever heard about this Spanish conquest story?

Thanx -- was not aware of either site. Interesting stuff. As for Spanish, I believe that there was an old spanish fort dating from 1500's at the site of present-day Ft Mitchell Al -- about 20 miles south of town (where Catholic retreat is at present). Was called Ft Colon (spanish for Columbus) Tus, would not be surprised if relics were found further upstream in the area of present day town. There was some talk about excavating Ft Colon but dont know what became of it. The new National Cemetery may be on that property. Think can read more about it in Columbus On the Chattahoochee by Worsley (?) circa 1949.

I sure would like to know what became of that discovery and if its a true story (spanish explorers). It really has my attention.There a lot of interesting history in the Cols area.

I know I will get !$#%^$%^&% for this but, at the risk of being the skunk at the garden party, I am not all that impressed about the development @ Columbus X-ing. First of all, it is sprawl at its worst, and fast becoming another Macon Rd or, God forbid, Jimmy Carter Blvd. It is already a traffic nitemare (by Columbus, not Atlanta, standards). Hwy 27 is not planned to be fully expandedfor EIGHT more years. The developer is Atlanta-based, so has no interest other than maxing out $$$. The design is blah and, for the most part, it is based on programmed obsolesence (geared toward cars) and, like Macon Rd, will flourish as a commercial center for a while and then be replaced rather than retain its appeal. All in all, seems that it is an example of the false but prevalent notion that bigger = better. I think a MUCH better idea would be to emulate the Mall of Georgia. Yes, the amenities are nice (restaurants, shops) but it could and should have been done in a Much more tasteful and classy way -- rather than a long strip center which requires that you drive from store to store -- especially in the summer and in the rain at any time. One thing I fear is that Columbus has been isolated and a backwater for so long that it grabs at any development without thinking of the consequences or long-term quality of life. One of the benefits of being a backwater is that Columbus has missed alot of the tackiness that permeates other places in the South (like Gwinnett) and has an ambiance that, if not identical to that of the late and lamented New Orleans, is still somewhat distinctive to rivertowns. Hence, the downtown area which is undergoing a revival, not necessarily a total rebuilding (compare Atlanta). (If you have not guessed, I am a member of the Historic Columbus Society, which I hope that readers of this thread will consider joining or, at least, checking out our web page). I kind of like the new city slogan -- "What progress has preserved." I just hope that, in the rush to make up for lost time, Columbus does not fall into the "development at any cost" mentality that other towns have bought into. Also, a problem is the inferiority complex that Southern cities sometimes feel (example is Atlanta which MUST compare itself to NYC rather than rely on its own style). That explains the recent controversy in which the library board vote to pay a NY artist 250 k for a sculpture to stand in front of the new building (on Macon Rd where the mall USED to be!) -- when there are local artists who would love the commission and a new art center is being developed at CSU. I am not advocating a return to insularity, but think that we need to question whether the opposite extreme is the answer. I love the new shops, restaurants, theaters, etc. My concern is how they are coming on line. I am currently in "exile" here in Atlanta, but hope to return to the Columbus area at some point soon (146 weeks and 1 day, but who's counting?) . When I do, I hope that I will be coming back to a city with some distinction and not a smaller version of the New York of the South!
Comments? I am prepared for brickbats, as well as bouquets!

Columbus Park Crossing's is sprawl. It is a nice development though. You are right though when it comes to the difficulty of getting from one store to the next, you might have to walk a mile! The area is growing extremely fast which is a good thing. I will say that I wished it looked more the The Avenue right up the road in Peachtree City or Destin Commons in Destin, FL. Columbus Park is just too big to walk compared to those other developments. Hopefully, the land across Whittesley Road will be developed like The Avenue or Destin Commons. There is so much more land to develop out there. The place will be huge once it is fully built out. As for Columbus Park being replaced one day, I just don't see that happening. Columbus is growing too fast for something like that to happen. I don't see a slowdown ever in Columbus when it comes to development. Personally, I would like to see another indoor mall built somewhere, maybe Harris County if they would open up to commercial development! Columbus should continue to invest in DT. I would love to see some high-rise condos and hotels pop up along the river. Columbus needs to let go of the past and welcome the future with new, glassy buildings DT instead of keeping old buildings and renovating them. Columbus should have a much larger skyline than it presently has, especially for a city of 200,000 and a metro region of 500,000. Columbus has much better buildings than other 2nd tier GA cities, but we could be a lot bigger!

ATLMAN -- Thanx for your input. We are almost totally on the same wavelength. Noone (and I mean NOONE) is more stoked than I that Columbus is starting to stir and move ahead. My only concern is with the quality of the development that is going on, certainly not its size and scope. My "problem" with Columbus X-ing is that it is sprawl and not "classy" (for want of a better term). As you point out, there were "better" design alternatives than a gigantic strip mall. It is precisely because Columbus is growing that I think it will become obsolete and "replaced" sooner or later. As town "moves" further out, so will commercial development. Just like Columbus Square "fell" to demographic changes, I suspect that Columbus X-ing will eventually lose its appeal. That would NOT be the case if it were based on a more traditional town center concept which tied-in residential/commercial development with pedestrian-oriented atmostphere -- rather than auto-centered strip mall. Even if Whittlesly Rd does get some tonier delevopment, who would want to walk across the traffic to get to Columbus X-ing? As it stands, even those in the neighborhood have to drive to reach their destination.
I also agree about need for tall, modern buildings. I just question whether they are appropriate in current DT. Certainly there are buildings which could and should be razed and replaced by mid- and high-rises (For example, the tacky former Davison Building, now Raymond Rowe's at 12 and Broad). Also, there is open, available land DT which could support a high-rise (the block on the river between the new bridge and TSYS campus, for example). However, I dont think (and hope that it will ever happen) that we should lose any of the salvageable older classic buildings for the sake of "progress." For example, I would not condone tearing down the Springer to build the Rivercenter. I dont think that most people realize (present company excepted) exactly how beautiful some of those old buildings are, since many of them have had their original facades "masked" by later attempts at "modernization." Those old building are perfect for shops, restaurants, bars, etc. I am old enough to remember some gorgeous old buidlings which were demolished for tacky modern replacements (an example is the "modern" apartment buidlings which were built in historic district on lots formerly occupied by elegant homes). The "best" (and I realize that this is totally subjective) place for high-rises (other than the occasional in-fill noted previously) would be up-river from TSYS and/or along 4th Ave. In truth, I love the idea of taking the railyard and turning it into a brand, spanking new commercial DT with highrises, etc, abutting the more traditional DT with its shops, churches, galleries, restaurants, etc. In my mind, Columbus is (and should remain) more like a small version of Memphis rather than a small version of Atlanta -- accentuating its rivertown ambiance and not replacing it with glitz. BTW, I am very glad to have company in the "Go Columbus!" camp -- was very lonely for a while! Thanx for keeping us posted on the goings on there. I will try to return the favor whenever possible.

Has anyone else heard rumors that Kia might be considering Columbus/Lee County/La Grange as site for new car assembly plant?

Before reading this forum I did not even know there was a Columbus in GA.

The Cols Park Crossing area is sprawling like mad. Cols needs more than just damn restauraunts and car dealerships.

Before reading this forum I did not even know there was a Columbus in GA.
That is hard to believe! Ever heard of AFLAC, TSYS, Synovus, Carmike Cinemas, Char-Broil, Toms Foods, or a little fort call FORT BENNING???

I was just refering to the Cols Park crossing area. Sorry, I very well know Colimbus has these major companies and has strenghts people arent familiar with. Is there any plans for some hotels etc around that area?

That is hard to believe! Ever heard of AFLAC, TSYS, Synovus, Carmike Cinemas, Char-Broil, Toms Foods, or a little fort call FORT BENNING???

Actually I have only heard of AFLAC, that's the insurance company with the duck right, and Char-Broil, I am assuming this is a brand of coal. Never heard of the others.

Actually I have only heard of AFLAC, that's the insurance company with the duck right, and Char-Broil, I am assuming this is a brand of coal. Never heard of the others.
Yea, AFLAC is the insurance giant with the crazy duck commercials. Char-broil makes outdoor grills. Carmike Cinemas is the third largest movie theater chain in the U.S., with 490 theaters in 36 states. TSYS is the world's largest credit card processing company with operations in Canada, Mexico, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Synovus is a multi-billion dollar diversified financial services holding company. Synovus has been named one of “The 100 Best Companies To Work For” in America by FORTUNE magazine. Synovus was also named on FORTUNE magazine’s annual listing of “America’s Most Admired Companies” for the second straight year. Synovus ranked No. 3 in the Consumer Credit category for 2005 after being ranked No. 5 in 2004.

Anyone know what the Midtown revitalization is all about? Looks like they have some big plans for that area.

I was just refering to the Cols Park crossing area. Sorry, I very well know Colimbus has these major companies and has strenghts people arent familiar with. Is there any plans for some hotels etc around that area?
Yes, there are plans for a hotel at the far end of the development. It will be near the Moon Rd. intersection. A bank and a retail center (60,000 sq. ft) is going in that area.

Great!! I think Columbus could do real well in the convention business if they expand their hotel rooms. The Iron works is a beautifiul and historic place downtown and its next to the river. As far as I know they are expanding it. I think they should work with and welcome Ft Benning in using their facility as well. Im sure they could book alot of events there since it is such a huge post. I know similar size cities are trying to better there facilities so this would be of key impotance to Columbus. Theres alot of growth out there around the Moon rd (where I used to live). I hope there will be some careeful planning in the near future.

actually Iron Works addition is completed. Can send you URL with pix. It is magnificant. Yes, lots of Ft Benning events there. Also plans to seek Presidential Debate there in 2008. Just missed out to Miami in 2004 (Hmm, I wonder why?) Should hear about new hotel(s) soon. Expect a large, national name for
area -- probably near Dillingham in PC. Also could expand new Mariot (old Hilton). Sorry, but I am afraid Moon Rd is a "lost cause" -- IMHO. Sprawl not unlike what you see in California. Nothing distinctive and certainly not Columbus-style. However, it is nice having the amenities even if they are on the tacky side!

actually Iron Works addition is completed. Can send you URL with pix. It is magnificant. Yes, lots of Ft Benning events there. Also plans to seek Presidential Debate there in 2008. Just missed out to Miami in 2004 (Hmm, I wonder why?) Should hear about new hotel(s) soon. Expect a large, national name for
area -- probably near Dillingham in PC. Also could expand new Mariot (old Hilton). Sorry, but I am afraid Moon Rd is a "lost cause" -- IMHO. Sprawl not unlike what you see in California. Nothing distinctive and certainly not Columbus-style. However, it is nice having the amenities even if they are on the tacky side!

What kind of hotel might go in on the Phenix City side? Columbus needs another large hotel DT!

I live in the bay area and its pretty dense and centralized, esp. San Francisco. I can honestly say the bay area is huge and its cities are dense and alot of things are close by. For the amount of people in the bay area it is pretty well confined to the cities for its size , except for San Jose .Now Atlanta is one sprawled out place. Bay area neighborhoods have houses with smaller lots of land (yards) and alot of multi stories. It tends to make more use out of the land. Atlanta is quickly changing that sprawl image so is California. High density development, better use of mass transit, condos etc. Lets hope Columbus can do the same. There supposed to be widning Moon Rd. My parents moved right after that mall opened and all that growth came in. Yea send me a picture of the Iron Works. I had my prom there, very nice!!! California Dreamin with Georgia on My Mind!!!!

SF is definitely more compact than LA -- and classier. AS I have said before, the Atlanta developer has seemingly decided to follow the LA-Atlanta model for Columbus Xing.

For Trade Center info try

www.columbusga.org/Tradecenter/

New hotel probably in PC @ Dillingham bridge because it is closest available space to TradeCenter -- just a short jaunt across bridge. Plus from PC side have great views of Columbus riverfront. No other space nearby in DT (other than possible expansion of Marriott). You can check out plans for PC river development (including proposed hotel @ Dillingham) as complement to Columbus' at

www.phenixcityriverfront.org/

The closest DT area to TradeCenter that might have been used as hotel is now being converted into new CSU Art/Drama campus. Also another site for potential hotel on Front/Broadway is presently being developed as two 5-story dorms/parking deck for the new campus. As mentioned before, up river from Trade Center is open space (between new bridge and TSYS) owned by WC Bradley. However, it is several blocks away and I have heard that it is being eyed for commercial/condo.\( tho nothing announced). Would be nice to hear that that space is used for highrise combination commercial/residential /hotel. As I have said before, I think that there will probably be a number of boutique hotels DT at some point (in adddition to new PC hotel and expanded Marriott) but most likely only after new facilities/amenities (Whitewater, Infantry museum, etc) come on line and convention business picks up.

Heres a good example of what I mean about SF and Bay area from a good website I found. Its an incredible feeling being in a city like this. Over 750K people living in less than 48 square miles with a beautiful setting!!! By the way thanks for the Iron works website.


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Here is a rundown on some of the new projects under construction or proposed. Most are under construction.

1) Restaurants (Applebees, Red Robin, TGI Friday's, 6 FireHouse Subs, Starbucks,
Locos Deli and Pub, Back Yard Burger's, etc.)

2) 4 Wal-mart Supercenters and another Sam's (yuck, how many do we need!)

3) BMW and Acura of Columbus moving to a new facility in North Columbus

4) Gold's Gym (another one)

5) North Highland Church is building a 2,600 seat auditorium

6) National Infantry Museum on Fort Benning (expected to attract 300,000 people
(per year.)

7) Housing market is booming. Population growth over the next 2-3 years is expected to be around 31,000 new residents because of Fort Bennings expansion.

8) Multiple strip centers popping up on every corner

9) new Columbus library (retail, residential space will surround the new building)

10) Riverwalk extension through a condo development in the old Eagle and Phenix
mill downtown.

11) Columbus State University's $50 million dollar downtown campus addition with
two 5 story dorm buildings and a 500+ 5 story parking deck. Also, another 500+
5-story parking deck is being built on main campus. Soccer complex is now finished.

12) $1 billion+ in new construction on Fort Benning

13) Brookstone School is undergoing a $27 million dollar expansion (looks like
a college campus!)

14) 9 new elementary schools, 3 new middle, and 1 new high school are soon to be under construction.

15) 60,000 sq ft. retail center with a bank, Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Shop, Big 10 Tires, and hotel near the Columbus Park area.

16) New construction of a Bank of America, North GA Bank, TCI building, and Colonial Bank.

17) Numerous apartments under construction around the city.

18) 100,000 sq. ft. Muscogee County School District office building

19) redevelopment of Airport Thruway with new exterior on strip centers

20) A $20 million dollar 5 story 150-room hotel and spa will be built beside the Southern Pines Conference Center by September 2006. Also, 611 new homes are planned inside Callaway Gardens as well as other new facilities.

Can anyone think of anything else? I am sure there is more that I am not aware of!

Red Robin is good!! We have it here in Cali. 3 new Wal Mart Super centers !!!! The new library should be nice its supposed to be big.

I am very excited about the growth that is coming to Columbus. I want very much to see the former Bibb City area grow into a nice place to live and shop with small retail store. There is much potential to that area, I understand that plans are on the way to make the old Bibb Mill into condo and shopping.

Yor going to see real real estate around that area and along the river up to Green Island Hills skyrocket. Now is the time for investers to get in NOW!!!!

Yor going to see real real estate around that area and along the river up to Green Island Hills skyrocket. Now is the time for investers to get in NOW!!!!


Bibb City already started to gentrify. But slow going. Local developer had/has financial difficulty. Some Atlanta interests starting to sniff around (that may be good news, maybe not) Bibb Mill is long term project. Only new antique mall open. MIll itself used only for storage. However, it is a fabulous site -- wonderful views of river. Could be a premier location for retail/condo (and not tacky like some recent development) I predict that when whitewater comes on line, things will really start to move -- as Bibb City will be the put-in site. Perfect location for bars/restaurants and residential.
You are right -- all property between river and 2d Ave north from TSYS will be hot in future (Johnston Mill Lofts, which is @ halfway between DT and Bibb City -- may be too early, as I hear it is struggling) . Thinking of buying/investing there myself. Huge new state park going in along river north of Green Island, so only river front available in future will be north of TSYS to Oliver Dam (and in Alabama, which has great unrealized potential).

They say even Phenix City should get into the river front development, with possible condos, but that may well be a while from now. Its still in the early part once the first condo development is in place hopefully it will be a success. I really dont see why Columbus shouldn't really take off like any other southern city, well actually it is. Right now is a good time to take that step. Bringing part of Cols State downtown was a good idea. Bringing people downtown and stirring around , letting these kids down there with big dreams and good ideas and bring their interest of Columbus down there is good. Alot of graduates leave Cols maybe they can see that there talents are needed here. I think Columbus should have better recognition and promotion that Coca Cola IS the birthplace here. They should have a better museum or something, its hardly even thought of and associated with Columbus.

I am very excited about the growth that is coming to Columbus. I want very much to see the former Bibb City area grow into a nice place to live and shop with small retail store. There is much potential to that area, I understand that plans are on the way to make the old Bibb Mill into condo and shopping.
Glad to see another Columbus promoter! Keep on sharing your information and thoughts on this great city!

Here is something from WRBL News on the growth of Fort Benning and its impact of the school districts.

As Fort Benning continues to bring growth to the valley area, the need for new schools and for more school funding continues to grow. Local school districts are scrambling to prepare. "We do not have state funds at this time, or local funds", Jennifer Allen with Muscogee County School District's Students Services says.

Eight school districts in Georgia and Alabama have collaborated to come up with a proposal to get federal funding. Those districts include Muscogee, Harris, Talbot, Marion, Chattahoochee, Lee, Russell and Phenix City.

"We're looking at about 30,000 new citizens, soldiers, family, and children over the next 4-6 years", Myles Caggins, Muscogee County school's Chief of Operations and Facilities says the systems have laid out their needs in the proposal. Those needs total over 3 hundred million dollars for the valley area. The districts are asking the Department of Defense and the Department of Education to help with funding. "We are hoping that everyone recognizes how important it is for them to make it available to us".

Muscogee County school officials have identified places of interests to build new schools: the old Baker Middle/High school lot; St. Mary's Road area, the Rigdon Road site, the Macon/Flat Rock area, the Dawson campus, and Daniels area among others. The system is looking at building six elementary schools, three middle schools, and one high school. The building will take place in districts where the most growth is happening and new housing is popping up. Those districts are 2,3,4, and 11.

Muscogee County school officials tell News 3 they would like to begin designing and engineering efforts by the beginning of 2006 in order to be ready for the influx of students by 2008.

Columbus has lost part of it history. The 100 years old Jordan Mill on Monday was totally destroyed. I believe the old mill was due to become lofts. This is a great impact on the city and the city history. There are still others old mill that is being look at for possible lofts and condos to help house the many new citizens that are expected to come in the very near future.

Here is an article on Fort Bennings new housing from the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer.

Post's housing plan ready to go

Already talk of expansion, since Fort Benning didn't then know about new armor school

With groundbreaking set for February on a historic $630 million project to modernize housing areas at Fort Benning, there's already talk of a possible Phase II to the plan.

That's because when the Army chose Clark Pinnacle Family Communities to finance, construct, renovate and manage approximately 4,200 family homes at Fort Benning and the Ranger training facility in Dahlonega, Ga., the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission decision to transfer the Army's Armor School to Fort Benning was a year away.

"The numbers may have to be adjusted," said Phil Cowley, project director for Clark Pinnacle, a joint venture between Clark Realty of Bethesda, Md., and the Seattle-based Pinnacle.

But for now, until the Army launches a housing marketing analysis as troops arrive at Fort Benning over the next few years, the Community Development and Management Plan -- a part of the Army's Residential Communities Initiative -- is ready for activation.

"The Army's program to privatize housing is going to work out great for the soldiers and their families," said Jim Wiggins, the post's RCI chief. "We look at it as 'one stop shopping.' "

By that he means housing residents will be dealing with a single landlord, much like anyone living in nearby apartment complexes.

"Need help with your plumbing? Call Clark Pinnacle." Wiggins said. "They'll have representatives actually working at each of the housing areas."

The Army, Wiggins said, is committed to improving family housing as a means of sustaining the quality of life for approximately 15,500 soldiers and family members.

And Clark Pinnacle, which will now receive the soldiers' Basic Allowance for Housing each month as a form of rent, is committed to carrying out the Army's desires.

Terms of the deal

Official approval of the project came last month from Congress.

Approximately $400 million in private sector debt and equity has been raised and will be spent during the 8-to-10-year initial development phase of the project, said Cowley, a West Pointer and former member of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

"This is no short-term deal," he said. "It's a 50-year partnership."

The Army's investment is about $57 million. The building and renovation process will be spread out over 10 years; the Clark Pinnacle team will manage that housing for the remaining 40 years of the deal. The project is valued at about $2.3 billion over the life of the contract.

Blueprints provided by Cowley, vice president for construction Chris Hirst and investor manager Lon Sperry depict planned communities along the lines of the Florida panhandle town of Seaside.

Neighborhoods will include such amenities as village centers, pools, basketball courts, tennis courts, play fields, picnic shelters and nature/fitness trails.

"We're competing with off-post neighborhoods," said Cowley. "What we're building is not the same old military housing complexes you're used to seeing."

Architect Torti Gallas and Partners of Silver Spring, Md., designed the Benning homes in Mission, Colonial Vernacular, and Arts and Crafts styles. All new homes, which will average about 1,900 square feet, will be EnergyStar- compliant.

"We'd like to have no two homes on the same street be the same color," said Cowley, "just like an old-styled neighborhood. We also plan on having sidewalks on both sides of the street."

Each house or duplex will have two-car garages and two off-street parking spaces.

And that's just the outside of each structure.

Extensive surveys were taken on post last spring.

Focus groups of post housing residents were asked what they would like to see in their new homes.

How about each home being wired for state-of-the-art phone, cable and Internet service?

Done.

What about a facility in the garage to wash the clay and mud off boots?

Done.

What about fenced-in patios?

Done.

"What our soldiers want and need might be entirely different from what a soldier at Fort Belvoir might need," Wiggins said. "Our soldiers spend a lot of time in the field. They don't have muddy boots at Belvoir."

The McGraw Manor-McBride area on post will be the first to feel the wrecking ball.

What is now 952 housing units will be 600 single family homes after construction is complete. What about the historically significant homes on Main Post, one of which once served as home to Dwight Eisenhower?

No wrecking ball for them.

"There are 493 such homes," Cowley said. "And a majority of them have already been updated. We've identified some lacking modern conveniences. For example, we'll be adding a second bathroom to some. But since they are historic homes, there are certain things we can and cannot do to them."

There will be 27 phases of building all told, all of them in areas now occupied by post housing subdivisions.

Clark Pinnacle expects to work closely with local subcontractors and suppliers once the project kicks off in February.

In addition to this project, Clark Pinnacle is financing, developing, building and operating military housing at the Presidio of Monterey and Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey Bay, Calif.; Fort Irwin, Moffett Field and Camp Parks in California; and Fort Belvoir, Va.

AFLAC today announced a $100 miilion expansion which will result in 2000 new jobs.
Plan is to double size in the next few years. No plans for new tower. But
if all goes as planned, I think that a new signature tower is in the cards at some point.

AFLAC today announced a $100 miilion expansion which will result in 2000 new jobs.
Plan is to double size in the next few years. No plans for new tower. But
if all goes as planned, I think that a new signature tower is in the cards at some point.
Isn't this awesome! Great news for this growing city! I think a new tower might be in the works too down the road. Hopefully, if they do build a new tower, they will build it downtown instead of midtown at their current campus.

Presently if there is any hope for a signature tower(s) downtown, TSYS and AFLAC are Columbus's best shot. What a statement and impression that would make on cities like Augusta, Montgomery, Macon, Savannah etc and with the growth thats going on down there it really could testify Columbus as being Georgia's "second city" and major sunbelt city. If I'm not mistaken this growth at AFLAC can be attributed alot with the growth at Ft Benning. I believe thats how AFLAC really got started up with its close ties with the installation.

Here is the economic impact of AFLAC's expansion from the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. This is the largest expansion project going in GA at the moment.

Permanent Employment


Direct Jobs 2,000


Indirect Jobs 1,861

Total 3,861

2005 Current Payroll $100,000,000

Population Increase 4,040

Family Units 2,040

School Enrollment 1,220

New Retail Establishments 140

Additional Retail Sales $44,053,411

Property Taxes $1,640,000

Appreciate the info. I am always interested in things goiong on back home. Maybe theyll consider bldg a new tower downtown, well see.

AFLAC and Ft Benning are going to bring 34K people into the area.

300 new jobs! Road America will open office in Columbus with 300 new positions. Obviously, no new highrise as the result. But is further evidence that the Columbus area is in an economic "sweet spot" -- with Ft. Benning, AFLAC and new announcements of job growth. A high-rise development or two cannot be that far behind.

Anyone interested in pix of new Drama/Art campus of CSU being developed on river in DT can go to

www.colstate.edu/uptown

Also included are pix of two new mid-rise (5-story) loft apartments and parking garage.
Lofts seem pretty luxurious for college housing!

AFLAC is adding 100 new jobs to Columbus in addition to the 2,000 new jobs that were announced one month ago. Columbus is really taking off! This city is growing so fast.

SpRAWLUMBUS GEORGIA

SpRAWLUMBUS GEORGIA


Am inclined to agree -- partially. Columbus X-ing and new Walmart Supercenters are certainly examples of late 20th century garish sprawl, arriving in Columbus just as the concept they epitomize is being rejected and replaced by other cities. It would be nice if Columbus was at the forefront, rather than the laggard, in urban ideas. However, there is some hope. The new Midtown project is ambitious and I have high hopes for its success (not to mention a personal interest). Also the new condo development in the Eagle & Phenix Mill shows great promise (word is that the developer will be releasing info on this project soon, as in specific word on construction timetable and elevations, etc). The renewal of the 13th St area into a "village" is great (Loco's is a fun place that I can recommend on personal knowledge) and the tired old shopping center across the street (Lewis Jones market, etc) is now slated for comparable redevelopment. So all is not lost. Columbus probably doesnt have any more sprawl than most other cities its size. However, it is unfortunate that it is choosing to add to its sprawl at the very time that most other cities have seen the light and are moving away from the big-box concept.

Columbus is still at a size to where it can control its desiny. Its really at a critical crossroads right now.Everythin right now is at the pushing point to go in the suburbs of neighboring counties. NOW is the time for infill development, live work and play communities a continued resurgence to downtown. Hopefully are suburbs don't fall to the big box development. We need leaders who believe in smarth growth not sprawl growth!!!

Columbus is still at a size to where it can control its desiny. Its really at a critical crossroads right now.Everythin right now is at the pushing point to go in the suburbs of neighboring counties. NOW is the time for infill development, live work and play communities a continued resurgence to downtown. Hopefully are suburbs don't fall to the big box development. We need leaders who believe in smarth growth not sprawl growth!!!

Very true -- however, it could be worse. Augusta (and other places) has to deal with the same problem + ethically-challenged leaders. The problem in Columbus (insofar as I know) is leaders who are simply unused to growth/development issues. Hopefully that will change over time with education and experience. In the meantime, we have to contend with leaders who still subscribe to the idea that "bigger is better," because there was so little growth for such a long stretch. That said, I really am convinced that the committment to DT and mid-town is real and will (with bumps along teh way) lead to a better community in the future.

Don't take this the wrong way, but that looks like a lot of sprawl for such a small metro.

Ditto!
Columbus is nice in some areas but most of it is old and filled with crumby pawn shops. Don't get me wrong--i think Columbus is alrite but ATlman is sorta stretching the greatness of Columbus. I like the train depot Burger King near the mall and also the new basketball and hockey arena. Columbus Cottonmouths. Ahh they beat the Macon trax :bash:

Ditto!
Columbus is nice in some areas but most of it is old and filled with crumby pawn shops. Don't get me wrong--i think Columbus is alrite but ATlman is sorta stretching the greatness of Columbus. I like the train depot Burger King near the mall and also the new basketball and hockey arena. Columbus Cottonmouths. Ahh they beat the Macon trax :bash:

Whoa there! "Most" of Columbus is "old and filed with crumby [sic] pawn shops"! Hyperbole works both ways, and the truth is that Columbus has sprawl, older sections, crummy pawn shops and is also "nice in some areas." But too is Macon, Augusta and "most" other cities. It aint Heaven, but the point is that it is moving in the right direction. I am sure that Maconites would like some of the amenitites Columbus has already and has planned -- just as Columbusites are no doubt envious of some those things that Macon has (interstate connections, Hay House, Ocmugee Mounds, Train Station, etc) which make it unique. We all have a love-hate relationship with our hometowns, and sometimes tend to accentuate the positive and eliminate (or at least deemphasize) the negative. I actually think Macon is "alright" as well. But I am glad that I live (or soon will) in Columbus and would be surprised if you did not feel the same about Macon. http://skyscrapercity.com/newreply.php#
Smiliehttp://skyscrapercity.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&p=6883325#
Smilie

Ditto!
Columbus is nice in some areas but most of it is old and filled with crumby pawn shops. Don't get me wrong--i think Columbus is alrite but ATlman is sorta stretching the greatness of Columbus. I like the train depot Burger King near the mall and also the new basketball and hockey arena. Columbus Cottonmouths. Ahh they beat the Macon trax :bash:
You have to be kidding right? What do you mean Columbus is old? About the pawn shops, I have no clue what you are talking about. Every city has them including Macon, Georgia. Columbus is a beautiful city that has seen tremendous growth in the last 10 years. It will continue to see more growth as Fort Benning expands and as Columbus's major corporations grow. This city has so much going for it right now. You should drive over here and take a look at how fast this metro is growing. Also, I am not stretching Columbus's greatness. I write about what is happening in the city and what is proposed.

You have to be kidding right? What do you mean Columbus is old? About the pawn shops, I have no clue what you are talking about. Every city has them including Macon, Georgia. Columbus is a beautiful city that has seen tremendous growth in the last 10 years. It will continue to see more growth as Fort Benning expands and as Columbus's major corporations grow. This city has so much going for it right now. You should drive over here and take a look at how fast this metro is growing. Also, I am not stretching Columbus's greatness. I write about what is happening in the city and what is proposed.

im sorry :) I guess i havent noticed how FAST it was growing. It seems like everyone on skyscrapercity loves columbus and think macon is some shi**y town which it isnt. Macon is really growing fast too. Geico is expanding in the city and already has 1500 workers. Also we have a Bass Pro Shop and Distribution Center, Academy Sports Store and Kohls Dept. Store and Dist. Center. They all recently opened. Also there are plans for a Hilton or Marriot Hotel next to to the Macon Coliseum and Conv. Center whic will be 5 or more stories and be really nice. Also Wild Adventures is thinking about building a big water park in Macon. Macon is home to many famous people even Cher lived here for a year. i respect Columbus . I guess Columbus and Macon are rival towns. I went to Columbus and there seems like there is not too much there. Only Manchester Expressway Road has all the retail. Macon has 4 retail sections. The downtown is way bigger here too and we have more museums and tourists. Have you heard of Warner Robins? That place 8 miles south of Macon is extremely growing. It is spurred by Robins Air Force Base, good school, and good quality of life. Macon and WR has subdivisions going up like crazy too. Perry just south of Macon is another emerging town. It's downtown has had so many new business.
If you don't mind since I checked out your thread please read mine out of respect and maybe post something. Thank you my good rival :)
also gah-- are you from or live in Columbus??

Macon4ever -- very "southern gentlemanly" reply. You are right about rival towns -- Columbus, Macon, Augusta and Savannah (and, to a lesser extent, Albany, Valdosta, Dalton, Rome, Athens) are all part of an extended squabbling family fighting over the right to sit at the "big folks" table. Dont believe anyone dislikes Macon -- just that proponents of other towns concentrate on their own communities. It's not that Columbus is so much greater, but that it has some pretty strong adherents (hats off to ATLman!) and we arent shy about touting the Fountain City! I, for one, welcome you as a counterpart for Macon. Actually, I have been reading your threads (and those for other cities) but you are right about needing to post there as well as read. I am a Georgian, as well as a Columbusite, so I am delighted when another community (even a rival!) scores a goal! I suspect that you have not gotten a comprehensive view of Columbus -- Victory Drive and Manchester Xpressway will NOT give you a balanced view anymore than Riverside Drive and Eisenhower Xpressway arerepresentative of Macon as a whole. If you think retail is limited to Manchester Xpressway, you obviously have not seen Columbus Xcrossing or Bradly Park. You are very right tho that, at present, Macon does have some things which Columbus cannot match (and vice versa, I might add). But as I believe I have said before, my mantra is that Columbus has a lot of potential and seems to be trying to close the gap -- new interstates (to take some of those tourists away from 75 and Macon!), new hotel(s), whitewater, new Infantry museum, redeveloping DT. Come over sometime and take a look. I would ask you to stop by, but I havent closed on my new house yet (built in 1901 and near the park in mid-town which is also regentrifying). Assuming that it does close, will be working in Atlanta, with weekends in Columbus, until mid- 2008 -- when I return to hometown (4th generation) for good! Again -- thanx for the comments and hope to see you posting here often and to return the favor!

GAH

Thank you. ill try and visit as soon as I can to see all of your booming economy. I have to admit with Phenix City-- Columbus is pretty big. Phenix City has a lot of stuff and I've seen new businesses there. Auburn and opelika are really big and nice towns. The last time I passed through that area was 8 months ago on thje way to montgomery and biloxi mississippi and New orleans. talk to you later.

They are building a new infantry museum??? Ive been to the old. Also I love the new naval museum. it is neat. WTVM is your news rite?

They are building a new infantry museum??? Ive been to the old. Also I love the new naval museum. it is neat. WTVM is your news rite?
WTVM, WRBL, and FOX 54. Yes, the new museum is going to be huge. It costs around $75 million. Fort Benning is also building a national armor museum as well because the Armor School is moving here from Fort Knox, Kentucky.

WTVM, WRBL, and FOX 54. Yes, the new museum is going to be huge. It costs around $75 million. Fort Benning is also building a national armor museum as well because the Armor School is moving here from Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Wow!! :eek2: 75 million!

Anyone have any info on the rumor that Kia is considering Columbus-area for new assemly plant (2000 jobs)? I originally heard that Muscogee Tech Park was a possibility. Now hearing that West Point-area is in the running. West Point is in extreme north Harris County/ south Troup County. Site is easily accessible from Columbus (I-185) and Lee County ALA (I-85). Tho some distance from Columbus, it would be a boom for the entire area and further encourage northern move of retail/residential development. In fact, city of West Point and Columbus CofC have been partnered for sometime. So if this happens (and it is certainly NOT a done deal) would be coup for Columbus officials. Hear that final decision between West Georgia (either Columbus or West Pt), Chattanooga and West MS (Columbus, Meridian, etc) could come in a few weeks! Tho this one is being played pretty close to the vest, if anyone has any more info, please share!

Wow!! :eek2: 75 million!


You can check out plans at


http://www.nationalinfantryfoundation.org

It's going to be pretty spectacular. Looks like the new Armor Museum will be starting from scratch, as the Patton Museum will remain in Ft Knox even tho the Armor School is moving to Benning.

You are right about the Civil War Naval Museum -- it is unique and continues to add to its collection (great new addition of flags and plans to built a working model of union vessel)

Anyone have any info on the rumor that Kia is considering Columbus-area for new assemly plant (2000 jobs)? I originally heard that Muscogee Tech Park was a possibility. Now hearing that West Point-area is in the running. West Point is in extreme north Harris County/ south Troup County. Site is easily accessible from Columbus (I-185) and Lee County ALA (I-85). Tho some distance from Columbus, it would be a boom for the entire area and further encourage northern move of retail/residential development. In fact, city of West Point and Columbus CofC have been partnered for sometime. So if this happens (and it is certainly NOT a done deal) would be coup for Columbus officials. Hear that final decision between West Georgia (either Columbus or West Pt), Chattanooga and West MS (Columbus, Meridian, etc) could come in a few weeks! Tho this one is being played pretty close to the vest, if anyone has any more info, please share!
A recent Automotive News article revealed the finalists for the Kia plant: Chattanooga, Huntsville, Aiken, SC, and Hopkinsville, KY. There was no mention of Columbus, but I have heard that there is a "supersite" in Lee County ready for a new auto plant.
Automotive News article: Kia May Build Bigger US Plant, 12/26/05 (http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051226/FREE/51222045&SearchID=73232068166168)

A recent Automotive News article revealed the finalists for the Kia plant: Chattanooga, Huntsville, Aiken, SC, and Hopkinsville, KY. There was no mention of Columbus, but I have heard that there is a "supersite" in Lee County ready for a new auto plant.
Automotive News article: Kia May Build Bigger US Plant, 12/26/05 (http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051226/FREE/51222045&SearchID=73232068166168)


Thanx for info. Missed that article. Seems that info I received is not as "secret" as I thought! Article in Business section of today's AJC has essentially the same points as were given to me on the QT! Hope that this publicity doesnt screw up what could be a real economic coup for the Columbus area!

Send this plant to Macon! lol

Thanx for info. Missed that article. Seems that info I received is not as "secret" as I thought! Article in Business section of today's AJC has essentially the same points as were given to me on the QT! Hope that this publicity doesnt screw up what could be a real economic coup for the Columbus area!
West Point would be a great site for Kia. It is close to Montgomery, Columbus, and Atlanta. It seems to be a much better location than the other cities mentioned in the AJC article. I hope the Columbus/LaGrange area can pull this off.

Not to be rude:This will be coming to Forsyth,Ga 10 minutes north of Macon. There have been rumors about this for a long time and now it is true. Source-13wmaz.com

The State of Georgia plans to bring 436 jobs and restore a historic Central Georgia college campus.

The State Department of Corrections is moving from Atlanta to Forsyth.

Corrections Commissioner James Donald says 60% of his employees will move or commute to Forsyth. The remaining jobs will go to Central Georgians.

The old Tift College campus will be the departments' new home.

Governor Sonny Perdue is asking the state legislature to approve $7.5 million for the project.

Corrections Commissioner James Donald hopes to start construction in one year.

The department will relocate in Forsyth in three years.

The Department of Corrections has five prisons in Atlanta but 35 in Central Georgia. One state prison is in Forsyth.

Donald says prisoners from the Burrus Corrections Training Center in Forsyth will help restore the college.

Donald says the Georgia Public Safety Training Center is another reason the governor decided on Forsyth as a new location. The training center will also benefit. The Central Corrections Department will train it's own people which will free up space at the training center.

That is certainly good news for Macon/Forsyth. I have long thought that decentralization of state agencies would benefit both Atlanta (lessen congestion) and the outlying areas. Agencies could be placed in areas which make the most sense. Insurance, banking (Columbus), health (Augusta), transportation (Macon), trade (Savannah), higher education (Athens), agriculture (Albany or Valdosta), natural resources (Gainsville). The only agencies which really should remain in Atlanta are those which must be centralized at the Capitol -- tax, judiciary, executive.
Hopefully this will be the start of a decentralization trend.

What are the chances of Kia locating up the road in West Point?

What are the chances of Kia locating up the road in West Point?


My understanding is that Chattanooga is still the front runner (why totally escapes me, other than larger labor pool). However, West Point is running a close second for a number of reasons -- Tennessee may not want to dilute its relationship with Nissan and Saturn; Alabama is in favor of West Point if Decatur is off the table; Georgia is "hungry" for a win after losing Pooler, Ford and GM; etc. So the sense I get is that odds are less than 50% -- but rising. Guess we should know something in a few weeks. Pass along any word that may be floating around.

New $ 75M Infantry Museum still on schedule for anticipated Nov 2007 opening.
Will include a 5-story IMAX theater and fabulous exhibits. Located on
site which will include parade grounds and restored WWII military camp (barracks, etc). Will be adjacent to proposed Armor Museum and existing Riverwalk. Projected to draw 300 k visitors.

Here is a great article from the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer about Fort Bennings $3 billion dollar expansion in Columbus. Check it out!Fort Bennings Growth in Columbus (http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/13947396.htm)

I love Columbus since we have a house there lol :) Its a great place to get away from the city but some of the city follows you Columbus isnt exaclty that safest city in the world but you get to love this place

I love Columbus since we have a house there lol :) Its a great place to get away from the city but some of the city follows you Columbus isnt exaclty that safest city in the world but you get to love this place
Are you from Columbus? What section of the city do you live in?

kia coming! West point (~ 30 miles from Columbus via interstate) -- Total 5000 new jobs projected ~ $50000 per year!

Here are some KIA tidbits from today's Columbus Ledger-Enquirer

Site is less than 40 minutes from DT Columbus. (and right over line from Harris County -- which will undoubedly see growth in its northern sector comparable to that experienced in the south sector closest to town). Though located partially in Troup County, WP is "tied" to Columbus economically as member of the Valley Partnership (led by Columbus CoC0

Proximity to Columbus was "appealing" to KIA

KIA visited Columbus Dec 6 and were wined and dined there by Mayor and other big fish. Mayor and CofC instrumental in the process

Columbus expects 100's of new jobs from Tier 1 and 2 suppliers -- good timing for new Muscogee Tech Park (foreign zone industrial park) which is coming on line with new highway links to interstate system)

Congratulations to the I-185 corridor. As a Mobilian, I am so envious of Columbus' staggering economic potential. :)

Columbus metro region is going crazy with growth!!! Here are the articles from the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer about Kia.

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/14084157.htm (2,893 new jobs)

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/14084701.htm (Kia Facts)

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/14084510.htm (Growth in the the region)

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/14084512.htm (Kia is finally here)

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/14084904.htm (Deal in Dollars)

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/14084513.htm (Kia Picks West Point)

Unfortunately, I think it's going to be a L-O-N-G wait to get any connection between I-185 and the Florida panhandle. If someone could convince a private company to assist and build as a toll-road, it would have a better chance of being built in my lifetime :-) It only makes sense to build a limited access freeway due to the number of folks from the inland areas including Atlanta that venture to the coast in the warmer months and to facilitate evacuations when hurricanes threathen the coast (of course tolls should be waived in that event). If you wait on the states to do it, it'll be forever. Look at how long it has taken just to get US 431 4-laned! It would also make alot of sense to build an I-875 or some other number that would spur off of I-75 through Rome, tie into I-185 (which would change to I-875), then continure along GA-520/corridor-Z (which would have to be rebuild to make it a freeway). through Albany and tying back into I-75 at Tifton. If you get more industrious, you might also extend an interstate from Albany through Tallahasse to Tampa giving Florida an Interstate on the East, Center, and West of the peninsula.

I-14 would and NOT simply reuse the path of the Fall Line 'Freeway'. It's not a freeway, it's jut a 4 lane road with at grade crossings. It would have to be totally rebuilt with bridges and overpasses and access roads to meet Interstate standards. Note also that it will be competing with Alabama's efforts to extend I-85 from Montgomery to Meridian. I-14 is not planned to follow that path. Instead it would go south from Montgomery to Natchez, MS and dead end. The current plan is to bring it into Columbus from the south via US 27 and up I-185 to US80/GA22 instead of using the entire US80/GA 22 route of which part is already built to Interstate standards (JR Allen Parkway). Though GA screwed up ending the limited access at Manchester Expressway and allowing develpment right ont he highway...if one is ever to rebuild the road to interstate standards, nwo it will cost more to buy all the rights of way.

If they could combine the I-14 effort anf the I-85 extension, that would give an I-20 bypass around Atlanta benefiting Augusta, Macon, Columbus, and Montgomery.

Kind of like building the former Outer Perimeter proposal a few more miles out :-) Maybe that would relieve some Atlanta traffic :-)

Isn't it a wonder why Atlanta traffic is so bad? Just look at the map, just about anyone travelling through Georgia has to go through Atlanta. If you build these alternate route, it might alleviate some of that.

It would be interesting if Alabama could be convinced to extend the soone to be completed I-22 to Columbus via Auburn-Opelika. Corridor Z was originally mean to follow that route from kansas city via memphis through Columbus to Brunswick. I-22 as an interstae will stretch from Memphis to Birmingham.

As far as the Columbus skyline. It is very odd that AFLAC built THREE miles EAST of downtown (it's not a mile north). That was back in the 70's (I think it was 1974 when it was completed). The Government Center was completed in 1972 I belive. The AFLAC tower is 18 stories not 20 (I used to work there. Top floor on the Elevator is 19 and there is no 13th floor). I agree TSYS should have gone up instead of out. However, it costs alot more money to go up than out and until the price of the land justifies it, companies will spread out. Synovus should have also gone more than 6 stories. But alot of that also has to do with the demand for class A office space. Usually when an office tower is built, the namesake tennant is not the only one in the building. You have law offices, etc. If it costs to much you won't lease it out. So if you build a 35 story office tower, maybe 10 would be fore the namesake and the rest leased out to others.

Other reasons I have heard why there aren't more tal buildings in Columbus are 1) the soil will not support buildings over a certain height (I kind of doubt that reason though) 2) Eventhough commercial flights are infrequent into columbus metro airport, downtown is in the flight path and the FAA has to approve any structure above a certain height. Not sure of the validity of those reason. I believe more it's the price of land and the demand for office space that limits the skyline.

You also have to take into account if you do build a highrise or 2 into downtown, you also have to incorporate parking garages. The folks that go to work there will clog the roads coming into work and we'll really start to have traffic jams. While not anythign comparable to Atlanta, the downtown exit frequently does back up in the mornings and you still have 3.5 miles to go to get there. (An extension of JR Allen should be routed through downtown and tie into the Oglethorpe Bridge - could be routed over to Veterans Parkway which could more easily be upgraded to freeway? - just a thought - would still be costly. Did you know that Veterans/Manchester Expressway was originally to be a limited access link from downtown Columbus to Atlanta? The Rosehill residents at the time in the 50's objected and it was built as the at-grade road we are stuck with today. :-) )

The proposed trolley/trail from downtown via the Talbotton/WarmSprings rail line is an interesting proposal. If they get the tolely running that would connect the Peachtree Mall/Columbus State main campus area downtown with a rail link. If they could figure out a way for it to tie into the rail line going near Columbus Park then we could really have a jump on rail transit before it gets too expensive to build.

I think it would have been alot better for the city had the Columbus Park Development occured downtown instead of out on the north side of town. We are gradually moving the larger retail centers further and further up I-185 (remember when it was known as the Lindsay Creek Bypass and the speed limit in the city was 70 during the day and 65 at night and it ended at Airport thruway? :-) ). We've got to get national retailers along with the local/regioanl retailers in the mix downtown as well as some big name restaurants (what happened to the Alabama group's restaurant and the Spaghetti factory). How different would it be had Carmike 15 built downtown vs. out at Columbus Park? Is there enough of a base that they could build a megaplex downtown to attract the people then the restaurants and shops would follow? Maybe after a few of the condo developments and lofts get going and the 24/7 population base is down there. If they get the whitewater course going having that downtown might be a draw to keep some folks here for more than jsut a ride down the river.


I've said my 2 cents and then some :-)