With the launch of “Jimmy,” Gateway85 is among the first CIDs in Georgia to implement Citibot’s AI-powered platform, and the first CID in Gwinnett County, strengthening communication, improving access and supporting the property owners and businesses that drive one of the county’s most active economic corridors.

Developed with Citibot, a leader in AI-powered tools for local government and community organizations, “Jimmy” is available 24/7 on the Gateway85 website and is designed to provide users with immediate answers or allow them to report issues and request services such as landscaping maintenance and graffiti removal in real time.

“Jimmy” communicates in more than 70 languages, reflecting the diversity of the Gateway85 district and reducing barriers to access. Users can quickly find information or submit requests without navigating multiple systems or waiting for business hours.

“Stakeholder engagement is a core pillar for Gateway85, and that starts with making sure our property and business owners can easily reach us and get what they need in a compressed timeframe,” said Robert Michener, executive director of Gateway85 CID.

Users can access “Jimmy” by visiting www.gateway85.com and clicking the chat icon on any page. The chatbot works on desktop and mobile devices and responds instantly. For more complex needs, users can request follow-up from a CID staff member within the chat. “Jimmy” also helps Gateway85 track common questions and service requests, allowing the CID to prioritize resources, respond more efficiently and update their communication channels to proactively address questions.

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About Gateway85 CID

Gateway85 Community Improvement District is one of the largest CIDs in Georgia and includes parts of Norcross, Peachtree Corners and unincorporated Gwinnett County. The CID is funded by commercial property owners within the 14-square-mile area, which spans the I-85 corridor in southwest Gwinnett County. Formed in 2006 as the Gwinnett Village CID, the Gateway85 Gwinnett CID includes more than 550 property owners that account for $1.7 billion in commercial property value. In coordination with regional partners, the CID has led on more than $110 million in improvements for the district since 2006. For more information, please visit the website, or connect via Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook.

Media Contact:

Carter Brown, on behalf of Gateway85 CID
communications 21
cbrown@c21pr.com
404.814.1330

The post Gateway85 CID Launches Innovative 24/7 Online Chatbot to Improve Response to Member and Community Needs appeared first on Gateway85.

It was a pleasure to join Partnership Gwinnett and Gateway85 Community Improvement District for this year’s Economic Outlook. With record attendance and the addition of a fireside chat featuring local leaders, the event continues to grow in both scale and impact.

During my presentation in March, I focused on several key forces shaping the national economy — including inflation, interest rates, the labor market, housing and manufacturing. Those themes remain central to my outlook, but as expected, some perspectives have already evolved.

If I were giving the presentation today, my expectations around interest rates would be different.

In early March, I anticipated approximately 100 basis points of rate cuts through the remainder of 2026, particularly as leadership at the Federal Reserve transitions. I no longer expect that to be the case. Inflation has proven more persistent than I anticipated — driven in part by global factors — and under those conditions, it becomes difficult for the Fed to justify cutting rates. At this point, I believe it is more likely we see no cuts, and I would not rule out the possibility of a rate hike before a cut.

I would also modestly revise my GDP outlook downward from where it stood in March. While the economy continues to grow, the pace of that growth may be slightly slower than previously expected.

Beyond those adjustments, much of my original outlook remains intact.

I continue to expect a recovery in manufacturing, supported by onshoring and domestic investment trends. Inflation is still likely to move higher, particularly in areas such as health care and energy. The labor market is expected to weaken, while consumer spending — which showed strength early in the year — may taper as 2026 progresses. Housing construction is also likely to remain slow, as inventory levels remain elevated and mortgage rates continue to move in an unfavorable direction.

These were all themes discussed during the Economic Outlook and remain key factors to watch in the months ahead.

One of the most valuable aspects of this year’s event was the addition of local perspectives through the fireside chat. While my role is to provide a national economic lens, those insights help ground the data in what businesses and communities are experiencing in real time. As always, an economic outlook is a point-in-time assessment. Conditions will continue to shift, and forecasts should be evaluated accordingly. I look forward to returning next year to assess how these projections compare to where the economy ultimately lands.

The post What’s Changed, and What Hasn’t, Since the 2026 Economic Outlook appeared first on Gateway85.

She joined Colliers more than eight years ago as an assistant property manager. What first attracted her to the role was its proximity to home. “When they told me the property was off Oakbrook Parkway, I couldn’t believe it. I lived just 15 minutes away,” she said. “Now, I get to help businesses in my own community succeed.”

Building relationships and community

As a self-described “people person,” Bellina enjoys being hands-on and connected with her tenants. “My favorite part of the job is getting out, walking the property and checking in with tenants to see how we can make their day-to-day easier. It’s all about relationships,” she said.

Partnering with Gateway85 CID

Over the years, Bellina has partnered closely with Gateway85 CID on multiple improvement projects, including the sidewalk expansion along Oakbrook Parkway — one of the CID’s key infrastructure initiatives. “At first, I was nervous about the construction,” she said. “Our ownership had just invested heavily in landscaping, and I was worried about how it would look. But Robert [Michener] and the CID team were great partners. They kept me updated, restored everything beautifully and even repaired irrigation. It turned out better than before.”

Bellina has also seen the impact of the CID’s beautification and safety efforts, from enhanced landscaping to security signage that deters unwanted activity. “Anything that helps tenants feel safer and makes the area look cared for is a win,” she said. “Curb appeal is huge. When a business brings clients to their space, they want it to look professional and welcoming. The landscaping, signage and street improvements Gateway85 has made really show that someone cares.”

Why businesses choose Norcross Corporate Park

For tenants in the Gateway85 district, location remains the biggest draw. With direct access to I-85, Jimmy Carter Boulevard and the bus line, Norcross Corporate Park offers convenience and visibility for companies and their employees. “Businesses choose this area because it’s easy for their employees to get to and from work, and the improvements happening along Jimmy Carter and throughout the district make it even more attractive,” she said.

Bellina credits Gateway85’s ongoing investment in the area with helping to attract and retain businesses. “The CID has really helped revive the area,” she said. “You can see the difference in how people view Norcross now.”

Looking ahead

Bellina also praised executive director Robert Michener for his leadership and vision. “I’m so proud of Robert and the direction he’s taking Gateway85,” she said. “He’s bringing great ideas and fresh energy to help our business community continue to thrive.” For Bellina, managing Norcross Corporate Park and collaborating with Gateway85 CID go hand in hand. “Their projects make a real difference — from sidewalks to safety to beautification,” she said. “When property owners, tenants and the CID work together, everyone benefits.”

The post Investing in People and Place: How Colliers International’s Dori Bellina Strengthens Gateway85’s Business District appeared first on Gateway85.

For nearly 100 years, Illing has helped businesses of all sizes get their products to customers efficiently and effectively. Their comprehensive services allow local companies to streamline operations, reduce costs and improve product presentation.

Solutions That Help Businesses Grow

Illing offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the needs of Gateway85 businesses, including:

• Custom packaging design to create branded packaging that stands out on the shelf and builds brand recognition.
• High-speed labeling and decoration with LabeILLING and shrink sleeve technologies for a professional, ready-for-market finish.
• A large inventory of containers, from bottles and jars to industrial pails and drums, supporting both retail and large-scale industrial operations.
• AI Smart Packaging solutions that provide real-time data on inventory and logistics to improve efficiency and reduce waste.

Whether you own a small business or manage a large manufacturing operation, Illing’s local presence helps your products move from concept to consumer faster and with higher quality.

Strengthening the Gateway85 Community

Illing’s location in Gateway85 brings benefits beyond their direct services. By operating within the district, they:

• Provide faster turnaround times and reduce transportation costs for nearby businesses.
• Support a diverse range of industries, from personal care and food production to industrial and commercial operations.
• Create jobs and contribute to the district’s economic vitality.
• Attract other businesses to the area, boosting demand for industrial and commercial space.

For property owners, companies like Illing showcase the value of being part of Gateway85. Their global reputation and innovative services help increase property values and draw new tenants to the area.

A Strong Future for Gateway85

Illing Packaging’s facility on Nancy Hanks Drive represents the type of forward-thinking, innovative business that makes Gateway85 a premier location for growth. Their services help local companies meet production demands, improve efficiency and expand their customer base while contributing to the overall success of the district. To learn more about Illing Packaging and how their services can support your business, visit illingcompany.com.

The post Illing Packaging: Delivering World-Class Packaging Solutions in Gateway85 appeared first on Gateway85.

With the board’s vote, Michener now transitions from interim to permanent leadership, continuing the work he began earlier this summer to guide Gateway85’s projects and partnerships. As executive director, he will oversee the CID’s strategic direction, manage its $4 million annual budget and lead initiatives focused on improving traffic flow, enhancing public safety, supporting redevelopment and strengthening economic competitiveness.

“Gateway85 CID and Gwinnett County have enjoyed a 20-year relationship, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished over that time,” said Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “I’m eager to work with Robert to advance an array of safety, transportation and redevelopment initiatives throughout Gateway85 CID that are critical to the future of Gwinnett County.”

Michener first joined Gateway85 nearly two decades ago as an administrative assistant and has steadily advanced through roles of increasing responsibility. Before he was named interim executive director, he served as director of operations, where he managed day-to-day project implementation and oversaw initiatives that improved transportation infrastructure, enhanced public safety and advanced beautification and redevelopment efforts across the district.

Over the years, he has worked closely with local governments, state agencies and community partners to deliver projects that benefit both business and property owners in the district’s 14 square miles. Gateway85 represents more than 550 property owners and $1.7 billion in commercial property value, making it one of the largest and most active CIDs in Georgia.

“Robert’s passion for Gateway85 CID and the success he has delivered over his 17 years of service with our CID made him the clear choice to lead us into the future,” said Shiv Aggarwal, chairman of the Gateway85 CID board of directors. “He has the experience and vision to continue delivering results that strengthen the district and support our property and business owners.”

Business leaders echoed that sentiment, noting the CID’s central role in Gwinnett’s economic competitiveness.

“Robert’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for both Gateway85 and Gwinnett County,” said Nick Masino, president and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. “His forward-thinking approach and commitment to collaboration will not only strengthen Gateway85 but also enhance our region’s broader economic vitality. I look forward to continuing our partnership as Gateway85 plays a key role in shaping Gwinnett’s future growth and competitiveness.”

Looking ahead, Michener said he is committed to continuing Gateway85’s legacy of investment and growth.

“I’m proud of what I have accomplished at Gateway85 throughout my career, including innovative crime reduction initiatives, world-class landscaping and more than 20 miles of new sidewalks,” said Robert Michener, executive director of Gateway85 CID. “I’m thrilled for the opportunity to lead Gateway85 into its next chapter as we embark on reimagining the Jimmy Carter Boulevard area to better support and attract business and improve the quality of life for the entire community.”

Gateway85 will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of investment and growth in southwest Gwinnett County.

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About Gateway85 CID

Gateway85 Community Improvement District is one of the largest CIDs in Georgia and includes parts of Norcross, Peachtree Corners and unincorporated Gwinnett County. The CID is funded by commercial property owners within the 14-square-mile area, which spans the I-85 corridor in southwest Gwinnett County. Formed in 2006 as the Gwinnett Village CID, the Gateway85 Gwinnett CID includes more than 550 property owners that account for $1.7 billion in commercial property value. In coordination with regional partners, the CID has led on more than $110 million in improvements for the district since 2006. For more information, please visit the website, or connect via Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook.

Media Contacts:

Carter Brown, on behalf of Gateway85 CID
communications 21
cbrown@c21pr.com
404.814.1330

-or- Sydney Garde, on behalf of Gateway85 CID
communications 21
sgarde@c21pr.com
404.814.1330

The post Gateway85 CID Board Names Robert Michener as Executive Director appeared first on Gateway85.

A Legacy of Inclusion and Impact

The global Special Olympics movement began in 1968, when Eunice Kennedy Shriver founded Special Olympics Inc. to create sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Two years later, in 1970, Special Olympics Georgia was formed, bringing that same vision to life in the Peach State. What started as a small group of dedicated athletes and coaches has grown into a statewide network supporting more than 26,000 athletes each year.

From swimming and basketball to gymnastics and tennis, Special Olympics Georgia offers training and competition in 26 Olympic-type sports, giving athletes of all abilities the chance to compete, develop new skills and form lifelong friendships.

How You or Your Business Can Get Involved

Special Olympics Georgia thrives because of the generous contributions of time, talent and resources from people and organizations across the state. There are many ways to support its mission:

• Volunteer: From coaching to event support, there’s a role for everyone — no sports experience required.
• Donate: Contributions help fund year-round training, competitions and health programs for athletes.
• Sponsor: Businesses can make a lasting impact through event sponsorships or corporate partnerships.
• Attend an event: Show your support in person and cheer on athletes as they compete and achieve their goals.

Whether you give your time, make a donation or simply spread the word, your involvement helps empower athletes to discover new strengths and abilities.

Learn more

Visit specialolympicsga.org to explore upcoming events, register as a volunteer or make a donation. And next time you’re in Norcross, know that one of the nation’s most inspiring organizations is working just around the corner — right here in Gateway85 CID.

The post Special Olympics Georgia: Empowering Athletes Right Here in Gateway85 appeared first on Gateway85.

Originally launched as a retail operation, Engelman’s quickly transitioned into wholesale production and today operates a 50,000-square-foot SQF-certified facility on Best Friend Road. The team combines old-world recipes with modern baking technology, producing everything from sandwich breads and dinner rolls to challah, hoagie buns and more than 20 variations of gluten-free products.

Engelman’s has become a go-to bakery partner for chefs and restaurants across the region, with its breads featured at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and in kitchens from Sweet Auburn Barbecue to Kirkyard Public House. Its signature products, such as the challah bun and potato roll, are praised for their taste, consistency and ability to hold up to bold flavors.

Located in one of the most logistically strategic corridors in the state, Engelman’s leverages Gateway85’s access to major interstates and distribution routes to efficiently serve foodservice partners throughout the Southeast. The bakery’s recent acquisitions of St. Armands Baking Company and H&F Bread Company have further expanded its footprint and strengthened its position as a premier wholesale bakery in the region.

As Engelman’s continues to grow, its commitment to quality, service and community remains unchanged. It is businesses like Engelman’s that make Gateway85 a dynamic district for industry and innovation — and a place where tradition rises daily.

The post Decades of Dough: Engelman’s Bakery Builds on 200 Years of Tradition appeared first on Gateway85.

Today, the CID board of directors named Robert Michener as the interim executive director. With 17 years of dedicated service to the CID, Michener brings significant knowledge, extensive project expertise and a deep commitment to the local community. Michener previously served as director of operations for the CID, and he has played a vital role in managing transportation improvements, public safety initiatives, beautification efforts and more.

Michener succeeds Emory Morsberger, a founding contributor and longtime executive director, who recently stepped down. Morsberger served as the CID’s first secretary and was instrumental in its early formation and transformation into one of Georgia’s largest and most active CIDs.

“Emory Morsberger helped move our organization forward to create one of the largest CIDs in the state,” said Shiv Aggarwal, chairman of the Gateway85 CID board of directors. “We wish him the best as he embarks on new ventures, and we welcome the fresh ideas and steady leadership that Robert Michener will in the interim bring to the table as the CID shapes its bright future.”

Under new leadership, Gateway85 will continue its mission to support economic development, improve mobility, accessibility, security and enhance quality of life across the district.

“As a longtime Gwinnett resident, I have seen firsthand how much this community has grown and evolved in the last two decades,” said Michener. “It’s an honor to step into this role and serve the CID during a time of transition and opportunity. The district has great momentum, and I’m excited to continue contributing to Gateway85’s next era of growth.”

The CID board officers will lead a search to evaluate permanent executive leadership, with updates to be shared in the coming months.

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About Gateway85 CID

Gateway85 Community Improvement District is one of the largest CIDs in Georgia and includes parts of Norcross, Peachtree Corners and unincorporated Gwinnett County. The CID is funded by commercial property owners within the 14-square-mile area, which spans the I-85 corridor in southwest Gwinnett County. Formed in 2006 as the Gwinnett Village CID, the Gateway85 Gwinnett CID includes more than 550 property owners that account for $1.7 billion in commercial property value. In coordination with regional partners, the CID has led on more than $110 million in improvements for the district since 2006. For more information, please visit the website, or connect via Instagram, LinkedIn or Facebook.

Media Contacts:

Carter Brown, on behalf of Gateway85 CID
communications 21
cbrown@c21pr.com
404.814.1330

-or-

Sydney Garde, on behalf of Gateway85 CID
communications 21
sgarde@c21pr.com
404.814.1330

The post Gateway85 CID Announces Leadership Changes and Executive Leadership Search appeared first on Gateway85.

The post Peach State Truck Centers: Driving Culture, Innovation and Growth in Gateway85 appeared first on Gateway85.

The Norcross and Doraville submarkets serve as key industrial hubs in northeast Atlanta, offering strategic infill locations with strong connectivity, proximity to the urban core and access to the affluent northern suburbs. Despite limited new development and aging inventory, both areas remain attractive to small and mid-sized tenants seeking last-mile and local distribution opportunities.

Location & Connectivity

Both submarkets benefit from exceptional access to vital infrastructure:

• Norcross: Proximity to I-85 and located between Atlanta’s dense core and its wealthy northern suburbs
• Doraville: Immediate access to I-85, I-285 and a Norfolk Southern rail line

This connectivity supports regional distribution while keeping transportation costs low, a key driver for tenants in these tight infill locations.

Tenant Profiles & Inventory Characteristics

Norcross

Norcross caters more to small and midsized users, with an average building size of 40,000 SF and very few properties exceeding 250,000 SF. Much of the submarket was built during a boom in the late 1980s and early 1990s, leaving the typical facility around 35 years old.

Doraville

Doraville’s inventory is characterized by larger facilities, but nearly 80% of its space was built before 1990. Only 1.9 million SF has been delivered over the past decade, while 1.3 million SF was demolished — reflecting land constraints and limited development opportunities.

Zoning restrictions and land limitations make new construction rare, with most tenants opting for smaller infill space close to customers and workforce.

Vacancy & Rent Trends

Vacancy in both markets has ticked up slightly due to recent move-outs and slower leasing activity, not an influx of new supply. Overall rates remain below the metro average and rent growth is modest but stable.

Key Takeaways

• Infill Strength: Both Doraville and Norcross are well-positioned for last-mile and regional distribution, thanks to superior access and proximity to metro Atlanta.
• Constrained Supply: Land and zoning constraints continue to limit new development, placing upward pressure on rents and reducing availability.
• Diverse Tenant Base: Doraville supports larger-scale tenants; Norcross is tailored to small and mid-sized users.
• Aging Inventory: Most space is decades old, though location continues to drive demand.

The post Gateway85 District Market Report, June 2025 appeared first on Gateway85.