Ackerman & Co. and Novare Group Partner on New Retail Development in Sugar Hill, Georgia

Ackerman & Co. and Novare Group have announced a partnership to develop a new retail project in Sugar Hill, Georgia, marking a significant addition to the city's expanding downtown area. The development, consisting of two buildings totaling 13,275 square feet, will be situated next to Novare Group's 306-unit Conclave Sugar Hill multifamily community on Hillcrest Drive.

Kelly Wilson, Senior Vice President of Ackerman Retail, will lead the leasing efforts for the project, which aims to attract a diverse mix of tenants including local and regional restaurants, fast-casual eateries, boutiques, and shops. The flexible space options, starting at 1,260 square feet, are designed to accommodate a variety of businesses and contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of Sugar Hill's downtown district.

Leo Wiener, President of Ackerman Retail, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, "This is an exciting opportunity for us to partner with Novare Group on this high-quality project adjacent to the City of Sugar Hill's master-planned downtown. The city has created a vibrant live, work, play district, and we're looking forward to adding a great mix of restaurants and retail to complement the city's downtown amenities."

The development is poised to benefit from and contribute to Sugar Hill's ongoing urban transformation. The city's master-planned downtown district already features attractions such as City Hall, The Bowl Amphitheater, the art-deco Eagle Theater, and the Sugar Hill Art Gallery, alongside existing restaurants, residences, and boutiques. The new retail project will further enhance this ecosystem, providing additional options for residents and visitors alike.

Jim Borders, President of Novare Group, highlighted the project's role in Sugar Hill's growth, saying, "Alongside the city's thriving downtown district, the retail and residences in our project will enhance Sugar Hill's growing appeal as a place to live and visit."

The development's integration with the city's infrastructure is a key aspect of its potential impact. The 11.5-mile Sugar Hill Greenway will be incorporated into the mixed-use site, and a pedestrian bridge spanning Highway 20 will connect the area to downtown, improving accessibility and encouraging foot traffic. Additionally, two acres adjoining the retail project will be dedicated to a public park, further enhancing the area's appeal and livability.

This collaboration between Ackerman & Co. and Novare Group represents a significant investment in Sugar Hill's future. By combining retail spaces with nearby residential developments and existing city amenities, the project aims to create a cohesive urban environment that supports local businesses, attracts visitors, and enhances the quality of life for residents.

The development also reflects broader trends in urban planning, emphasizing mixed-use spaces and walkable communities. As cities like Sugar Hill continue to evolve, projects that blend retail, residential, and public spaces are becoming increasingly important in creating sustainable, vibrant urban centers.

For Sugar Hill and the surrounding region, this development could serve as a catalyst for further economic growth and community engagement. By providing new spaces for businesses to thrive and for residents to shop, dine, and gather, the project has the potential to strengthen the local economy and foster a stronger sense of community identity.

As the project moves forward, its progress will likely be watched closely by urban planners, developers, and community leaders as a potential model for small-city development in the post-pandemic era, where creating diverse, accessible, and attractive urban spaces is more crucial than ever.