Neighbors, businesses excited about proposed Forsyth Co. arena project

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A proposed development that includes a $1 billion arena is generating enthusiasm for people who live and work in south Forsyth County.

As Channel 2 Action News first reported Monday, a mixed-use project is planned for a 100-acre site just off Georgia 400 near Union Hill Road.

The Gathering at South Forsyth would include an 18,000-seat arena, hotels, shops, homes, and restaurants.

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There’s also the potential of a National Hockey League franchise coming to the arena.

“Well, I think it’s great,” Terry Cowan, who lives in the nearby Holly Brooke subdivision told Channel 2′s Bryan Mims. “The growth is coming whether I like it or not.”

He’s already seen abundant growth during the 23 years he’s lived in the neighborhood.

A few years ago, a mixed-use development called Halcyon opened not far from the site that would host The Gathering.

“You’ve always got increased traffic,” neighbor Phillip Matthews said.

He considers that the only drawback, but major road improvements are planned that would accommodate the project.

“It will be a great thing. Property values will increase. I just see a lot of positive in it,” Matthews said.

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He also sees a positive in a possible pro hockey team playing in the arena.

“I love hockey, bring it on,” Matthews said. “It would be a great date night for the wife and I.”

At My Friends Place restaurant on McFarland Road, owner Jeffrey Morera said the proposed arena can only boost his business.

“I think if there’s more people walking around, more people checking out the area, then yes, most people will go there (to the arena),” Morera said. “But we’ll get some people who’ll come around here to these small areas and check it out as well.”

Tim Bryant lives across the road from the property and calls the project “awesome.”

He said whether or not the arena lures a hockey franchise, the development would thrive.

“You know, I think this area will support it,” Bryant said.

The Gathering at South Forsyth is expected to cost more than $2 billion and take three to four years to complete once it breaks ground.

The next step for the project is to be introduced at a Forsyth County Commission work session on April 25 at 2 p.m.

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