Unified Development Ordinance Updates
Council approved amendments to the City of Norcross Unified Development Ordinance affecting supplemental regulations and CX (community mixed use) and BH (Buford Highway) zoning districts.
Key changes include:
- Clarifying regulatory authority by removing district-specific language that referenced the Comprehensive Plan as a development compliance standard, reinforcing that development standards and approvals are governed by adopted ordinances.
- Requiring a Special Use Permit for multifamily residential (removing multifamily as a use “by right”) to provide added oversight and help ensure compatibility with district character and surrounding context.
- Adding Supplemental Standards to multifamily and mixed-use development.
- Updating density bonus incentives to improve consistency in interpretation and administration and to establish explicit caps on total allowable density bonuses for residential-only and mixed-use development.
- Additional updates in other sections were approved to clean up and clarify ordinance language for easier understanding.
Council Appropriates Funding for City Financing of DDA Acquisition at 9 South Peachtree Street
Council approved and appropriated funding related to the City’s financing of the Norcross Downtown Development Authority acquisition of 9 South Peachtree Street. On January 5, 2026, Council previously approved financing for the purchase through an intergovernmental agreement, note, and security deed for up to $1.4 million.
On-Call Stormwater Relining and Repair Services Contract Awarded
Council approved a contract between the City and Southern Premier Contractors, Inc. for on-call stormwater pipe relining and repair services not to exceed $1.5 million for FY26 and future budgets approved by Council. Having an on-call contractor allows the City to continue with its successful stormwater program.
The City of Norcross Public Works Department issued a Request for Qualifications and evaluated proposals based on experience and qualifications, references, and cost, including a shortlist of frequently used task sections. Southern Premier Contractors, Inc. received the highest overall score and was recommended for award.
The contract term is one year, with options to renew up to three additional years, and work will be completed under the direction of the Public Works Department as projects are approved. The contract is funded through the City’s Stormwater Fund.
Sale Process Authorized for 993 East Glochester Place via Closed Bids
Council approved the sale of City-owned property at 993 East Glochester Place through a closed-bid process and authorized the Mayor to sign the necessary documents to consummate the sale. The City acquired the undeveloped residential lot after a tax lien execution by sheriff’s sale on December 10, 2020.
The property is not planned for inclusion within City public facilities.
In accordance with O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6, the City will proceed with private closed bids. If a successful bid is made, the Mayor will execute a limited warranty deed. A prerequisite of a responsive bid is that the purchaser assumes closing costs (including attorneys’ fees, recording fees, and related transaction costs).
Sidewalk Priorities Approved Along with Initial FY26
Council approved recommended sidewalk priorities and initial proposed projects based on a Citywide sidewalk mapping and GIS effort completed by Keck & Wood in November 2025. The mapping identifies existing sidewalks, gaps, and streets without sidewalks, including 21,670 linear feet of sidewalk gaps within the City (approximately 1,490 linear feet attributed to County and State jurisdiction).
The approved prioritization focuses first on high-need areas such as:
- Connecting existing sidewalk segments to create a more seamless network, particularly in medium-to high-traffic areas
- Streets with no sidewalks on either side where pedestrians may be forced into the roadway
- Sidewalk installation coordinated with road widening or other projects
- Areas near schools and parks (within a quarter-mile), and locations with high pedestrian volumes or missing crossings
Initial project includes:
- Ruth Street Phase 1 (FY26): stormwater/curb & gutter, sidewalk
Council Authorizes Talks with Gwinnett County on Holcomb Bridge Road Ownership Transfer
Council authorized the Mayor and City Manager to initiate discussions with Gwinnett County regarding potential transfer of ownership of Holcomb Bridge Road, from Peachtree Boulevard to Buford Highway, along with any County funds planned for maintenance and improvements such as resurfacing, sidewalks, and stormwater.
On a related note, earlier this month the Council was advised that Gwinnett County agreed to conduct a signal analysis at Old Town Park Drive and Holcomb Bridge Road.