The lively downtown of Ball Ground, showcasing its unique shops and eateries.
Ball Ground, a picturesque town in North Georgia, has seen a remarkable transformation from its railroad origins to an economic hotspot. With a population increase and new businesses, including unique eateries and breweries, the town is attracting both residents and visitors. Recent developments, including infrastructure improvements and mixed-use projects, signal a bright future for this vibrant community, which has managed to maintain its historical charm while embracing growth.
Tucked away in North Georgia, about 50 miles north of Atlanta, lies the charming town of Ball Ground. Once just a humble railroad town, Ball Ground has been riding a wave of revitalization that has transformed it into a delightful destination for residents and visitors alike. With homes now frequently selling for over $1 million, you know something exciting is happening here!
Downtown Ball Ground is buzzing with life, as several new businesses have sprung up recently. You can grab a craft beer at the Rock Solid Brewery, shop for unique items at a high-end home decor store, or savor delicious offerings from a variety of restaurants. One standout is a 1948 former Atlanta Transit Authority trolleybus that has found new life as a quirky burger restaurant. It’s a fun reminder of the past while serving up good eats for the present!
The population of Ball Ground has practically tripled over the past two decades, skyrocketing from just 886 residents in 2000 to an impressive 3,039 by 2023, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. This dramatic growth is indicative of the town’s rising appeal, especially when contrasted with nearby Woodstock, which boasts a population of over 38,000. And it doesn’t look like this surge is going to slow down anytime soon.
Plans are already underway for a mixed-use development in downtown Ball Ground that promises to bring even more amenities to the area. Mayor Rick Roberts, who has been serving the town since 1988 (with just a short break), emphasizes the importance of embracing this growth. And it’s certainly not all rainbows and sunshine; this evolving town has weathered its fair share of challenges along the way.
Once named for the stickball games played by the Cherokee Indians, Ball Ground’s history is rich and colorful. In its heyday, the town thrived as a vital hub for the marble industry, especially during the late 19th century. However, the Great Depression brought significant decline, hampering both the town’s and its economy’s growth.
For a time, local entrepreneur Oscar “Rock Man” Robertson owned around 35% of the downtown properties, yet he didn’t let them be commercially leased, effectively blocking growth in the area. Thankfully, after his passing in 2005, his daughters began the process of renovating and leasing these inherited buildings, allowing local businesses to flourish and breathe new life into downtown.
The introduction of sewer lines in 2003 played a pivotal role in this revitalization, laying down the infrastructure necessary for both population growth and commercial development. These crucial upgrades, alongside federal funds from previous decades, paved the way for a bright future for the town, despite an earlier rejection to install sewer lines in the ’60s to avoid burdening seniors with unsustainable costs.
In 2015, the filming of the Tom Cruise movie “American Made” sparked some much-welcomed visibility for Ball Ground. The production not only put the charming town on the map but also helped improve parking access, an important feature for local businesses. The subsequent arrival of restaurants like Ball Ground Burger Bus (2015), Southern Oak Provisions (2017), and Barrel House Coffee (2018) have made sure the downtown area is thriving.
As the town works to maintain its unique charm, there’s a focus on fostering independent—not chain—businesses to keep the local character intact. Real estate agents are reporting a growing interest in new homes, with model homes priced around $1.2 million. It seems that Ball Ground is ready to embrace its newfound status as an economic hotspot, all while celebrating its rich history and unique character.
In the end, the tale of Ball Ground is one of resilience and growth. With its stunning homes, vibrant businesses, and engaged community, it’s safe to say this little railroad town has made a big comeback. Keep an eye on Ball Ground—the best may be yet to come!
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