Gwinnett County students envision Sugar Hill’s future during visit downtown

The city of Sugar Hill has received feedback on its ENVISION100 initiative from local students who will range from young adults to individuals in their early 30s when the city celebrates its centennial in 2039. 

City officials and staff, with input from the community, are updating Sugar Hill’s 2039 comprehensive plan for long-range growth. That input now includes feedback from about 100 students from Sugar Hill, Sycamore and White Oak elementary schools, Lanier Middle School and Lanier High School. 

“A majority of the decisions that we make today will impact these students in the future,” said Sugar Hill Mayor Brandon Hembree. “It is important for us and them that we hear, as decision makers of today, how they envision our future as a community in 2039.”

The students took tours over the span of two days in September, visiting downtown Sugar Hill and participating in feedback sessions, where they discussed with government officials and planning staff what they envision for the future of Sugar Hill. 

“In one of our activities we asked what they valued most, and many of the students answered by choosing words like community and the environment,” Hembree said.

“It was amazing to see students learning about the rich history of Sugar Hill while eagerly embracing the opportunity to voice their visions for future enhancements,” said Clifton Alexander, Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Lanier cluster superintendent. “The City of Sugar Hill is a special place that values the input of future generations.” 

The students’ visit to downtown Sugar Hill also included a picnic in the area of The Bowl and a stop by Scoops, a local ice cream shop. 

“This day of learning and leading allowed Lanier cluster students to walk away knowing they play a critical role in creating a vibrant Sugar Hill community where they can learn, live, and play,” Alexander said. 

“We know, without a doubt, that when a young person feels a connection to their community there is a higher likelihood that they will come back to their hometown after they complete college,” Hembree said. “Including our school students in activities, like ENVISION100, helps them feel a sense of community and connection with Sugar Hill.”