Comprehensive Plan 10-Year Update
City of Brookhaven
Economic Strategy
Brookhaven was founded in 2012 is the largest city in DeKalb county, and is part of the Metro Atlanta region. Previous comprehensive plans have guided the growth and development for the past decade, including quality of life efforts and major land use decisions to spur economic growth. The city is now preparing for continued population growth while focusing on enhancing overall well-being. Priorities include community and connection between neighborhoods and population centers, workforce and missing middle housing, community identity-building and branding, arts and cultural offerings, public health, and transportation.
Fourth Economy supported Blue Cypress Consulting by leading the Housing and Economic Development components of the plan.
Our Approach
The Fourth Economy team conducted an in-depth analysis of community makeup through demographic data, homeownership and cost-burden assessment, and examined employment, entrepreneurship, and industry trends. We conducted interviews with key economic development and real estate leaders, business owners, and employers to understand economic development priorities. Additionally, we supported focus groups on affordable housing with housing experts, real estate development with local and regional developers, and community engagement sessions with residents.
The Results
Key strategies and recommendations from our analysis include the need for a new, guiding comprehensive economic development strategy, developed in close partnership with the business community and employers; advancing more live-work opportunities, especially around nodes of economic activity; preserving and expanding safe, affordable workforce housing; and enhancing the City’s support for entrepreneurs and small businesses to help combat commercial gentrification.
Brookhaven City Council unanimously approved the plan in October 2024, touting it as “user friendly,” and celebrating the city’s focus on housing diversification and equity.
Location
Brookhaven, GA