ATLANTA—Commercial real estate development and investment firm KDC reports it has expanded its operations here with the hiring of industry veterans Jim George and Robert Maddux.

Officials with the Dallas-based firm say the two executives will focus primarily on the development of KDC's transit-oriented project in Dunwoody, GA, which includes State Farm's lease of 585,000 square feet of office space. KDC's Larry Wilson will continue to oversee the Atlanta operations, including development and investment opportunities, company officials state.

“The Dunwoody project and State Farm's office lease requires an experienced team with excellent planning skills and a proven track record of success,” Wilson states. “I'm confident that Jim and Robert are the right fit for this project and other development opportunities.”

George joins KDC following a 30-year career with Cousins Properties. He has been responsible for the design, construction and development of many of Atlanta projects including Wildwood Office Park in Cobb County, North Point in Alpharetta and Terminus in Buckhead. His work includes office and medical buildings, research facilities, retail shopping centers and large mixed-use developments. In addition, he had a career of active and reserve service in the United States Navy Civil Engineer Corps., retiring as Captain.

Maddux joins KDC from Pope and Land Enterprises, where he was director of design and construction. He has extensive experience in managing large and complex projects. His prior experience also includes stints with Genoa Construction Company and R.J. Griffin and Company.

In February, KDC announced plans to develop a transit-oriented development on 17 acres in the Perimeter Center area of Dunwoody. The first office building, to be leased by State Farm, will be constructed on a nearly 4-acre site at Hammond Drive and Perimeter Center Parkway and will connect to the Dunwoody MARTA station. KDC plans to begin construction on the first building in the summer of 2014.

KDC's Dunwoody development at full build-out will include 2.2 million square feet of office space, 100,000 square feet of retail, restaurants and entertainment, and a 200-room select service hotel.