Roswell-based MetroGroup Development is the developer of the first phase located on seven acres at the intersection of Highway 166 Bypass and Maple Street. Construction of the first phase of the commercial district started in April, with construction on the single-family homes to start this summer. The first phase of the commercial district will include a CVS pharmacy and two additional two-story buildings with 25,000 sf of ground-floor space that can be used as retail, restaurants or office space. Above the ground-floor commercial space will be 30 residential lofts. Plans for an additional 14 acres of commercial development will be announced in 2007.

The commercial district will be designed to resemble a village, similar to developments MetroGroup has completed in Roswell. Designed by Atlanta-based architects Phillips Partnership, the buildings will feature a blend of architectural elements and design details that complement the surrounding residential development and create an inviting commercial environment.

The district will be connected to the surrounding community by the extension of sidewalks to the University of West Georgia, which is located about a half-mile away. MetroGroup Development could not be reached by GlobeSt.com's deadline, but in a prepared statement, partner Mark Gottlieb says, "The influx of new residents and students creates a demand for quality commercial development that provides shopping and dining establishments in a convenient accessible location."