Intially developed in the 1960's and 70's when I-85 was extended to Suwanee, the Gateway is the city's oldest commercial area. Efforts to improve the Gateway are a portion of Suwanee's 2020 Vision strategic plan.
The 3.4-acre tract, located at 2955 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, was acquired for $1.25 million from the First Intercontinantal Bank.
Home to the former May Queen Hotel, a now run-down building that has stood empty for approximately a year, the property has become the site of continually increasing criminal activity.
Mayor Jimmy Burnette believes the purchase will bolster the area's long-term future. He added: "This purchase allows the City to eliminate a vacant, run-down building and invest, as have several private businesses and other public agencies, in the long-term success of the area. We're extremely optimistic about the future of the Suwanee Gateway."
The acquisition is the latest in the city's ongoing efforts to meet goals set forth in the 2020 Vision plan. Recent undertakings in improving the Gateway include the opening of a new police training facility, the extension of McGinnis Ferry Road, and the construction of 355 new apartment units.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/2/258798