Suwanee Takes Playful Approach to Strategy

The vision of Suwanee's future looked something like a game show Thursday evening.

You want someone writing figures on a dry-erase board? Forget about it.

Come on down.

The first strategic vision open house hosted by city officials typically had a unique flavor. Done in conjunction with Interface Studios, the setup at a vacant store in Town Center near City Hall was designed to get resident input in a fun way.

For instance:

-- Visitors were directed to the store via chalk art on streets and sidewalks.

-- Once inside, visitors were given play money in various denominations and allowed to place the bills in piggy banks marked with categories such as parks, public safety and senior activities. Officials later will tally the "money" to show what categories residents value the most.

-- One wall exhibit allowed people to place a sticker near their current residences, then stickers near their primary destinations. An adjoining wall exhibit then allowed them to express that vision for 20 years hence.

-- Another exhibit allowed visitors to be photographed with a city-scene backdrop, holding a "sound bite" chalkboard in their hand. The chalkboard was to express a thought for Suwanee's future.

Yes, the city that added about 7,000 residents and five city parks in the past decade is keeping the fire burning.

Miles Williams, at age 57 a lifelong Suwanee resident, likes the change.

"I like the fact that Suwanee has developed," Williams said Thursday. "Before, there was a lot of greenspace, but it was not publicly owned."

The retired General Motors worker (at both the Lakewood and Doraville plants) remembered that Suwanee residents once had to drive to Doraville or Chamblee to shop.

"That's where all the stores and theaters were," he said. "Now they are here with us."

Former Suwanee Mayor Richard Trice was among the opening night visitors.

"What they are doing is gathering information, to see what they find out," Trice said.

Williams said, "They are keeping development at a steady pace. I think it'll be good. ... It gives us something to look forward to."

The turnout was about 125 people, according to Jessica Roth, assistant to City Manager Marty Allen. That was considered strong, although city officials have nothing to compare it to.

Residents will be able to check out the open house until July 28 at the following days/times:

Tuesdays/Wednesdays/Thursdays, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 4:30-7 p.m.; Saturdays, 9-11 a.m. The open house will be closed Sundays, Mondays, and Fridays.