Most of the money from the 2014 and 2017 SPLOST programs is going to hundreds of transportation projects like road widening, intersection upgrades, paving, bridges, and sidewalks. But many other positive things are happening as well.
In just the last few months, we opened a new morgue and medical examiner facility, broke ground for an expansion and relocation of Fire Station 15, cut the ribbon on the new Centerville Senior Center, and unveiled the historic Isaac Adair House in its new location next to the also-renovated and equally historic Lawrenceville Female Seminary
Construction has begun on an expansion to the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, which will include a new court building and parking deck. SPLOST-funded expansion will also be getting underway at the Infinite Energy Center where the Arena broke records in one July week by hosting six events, including five sold-out concerts.
Parks and Recreation opened new expansions at Rock Springs Park and McDaniel Farm Park plus a new gymnasium at George Pierce Park. The last SPLOST program also paid for many less visible renovations at existing facilities including new roofs, artificial turf fields, and upgraded aquatics systems.
Libraries are also benefitting from SPLOST with plans for new and improved branches at Duluth, Lawrenceville, Norcross, and Snellville. SPLOST funds have also paid for new fire trucks, ambulances, and police cars, with more fire trucks and ambulances to be funded from the current SPLOST.
Over the next six years, pennies collected here in Gwinnett will build a new Bay Creek police precinct and backup 911 Center, greenway projects, expansions at the Lenora Park Community Center, and a gym and a new senior wing at the Dacula Park Activity Building.
Since 2001, the county has shared SPLOST revenue with all 16 city governments in Gwinnett, resulting in new civic facilities and better roads, parking, and amenities across our 437 square miles.
Gwinnett voters have approved a succession of SPLOST proposals, beginning back in 1985. We’ve invested more than $3 billion in sales tax funds for these improvements, minimizing long-term debt and saving more than $1 billion in financing costs compared to issuing bonds.
As we look ahead to Gwinnett’s 200th birthday next year, it’s good to reflect on the steady progress we’re making and celebrate the tangible results of voters approving a penny sales tax on the many dollars spent here. With your help, we’re building a better future for Gwinnett.
Charlotte Nash is Chairman, Board of Commissioners, Gwinnett County.
