February 17, 2026
In my capacity as Commissioner for Forsyth County, I want to be clear: this community is focused on delivering the strongest possible opportunity for long-term economic growth, regional access and major-league success. We are continually ranked as the most desirable and one of the wealthiest counties in the country and that is due to our location, amenities, business investments and community focus.
Those familiar with recent developments recognize that the NHL has implemented updated expansion criteria, establishing a specific set of requirements that prospective markets must satisfy to be considered. These standards reflect an ongoing evolution in the league’s process, and we remain actively engaged with all relevant parties, with the full support of the Forsyth County Development Authority and the Forsyth County School Board, to finalize an arrangement that not only fully complies with NHL guidelines but also best serves the interests of Forsyth County residents. We are also proud that The Gathering at South Forsyth’s developer, Krause Sports and Entertainment and Vernon Krause, has engaged with the local community and listened to their desires from the very beginning of this process.
What remains unchanged is the exceptional strength of The Gathering at South Forsyth’s location, the comprehensive infrastructure planning already in place, and the steadfast commitment of both Forsyth County and the development team to executing this opportunity with the highest standards of diligence and responsibility.
The Gathering at South Forsyth sits on what is unquestionably the best site in the region. Unlike other potential locations, this site is shovel-ready, with the proper zoning and $225 million committed from a Tax Allocation District (TAD) that county residents overwhelmingly supported with their votes. I am continually encouraged by comments from my constituents who want to see a thoughtful development like The Gathering that will provide world-class entertainment options similar to what the Atlanta Braves created with The Battery. It is also community-focused with the ability to accommodate graduations, as well as hosting a command center for law enforcement, a fire station and housing for our local schoolteachers and first responders.
Another notable difference is The Gathering at South Forsyth’s 100-acre site benefits from three distinct ingress and egress points — two exits directly off 400 — a new exit at McGinnis Ferry, which is also being widened from two to four lanes and exit 12 McFarland Parkway. The most exciting addition is the planned managed lane interchange at Union Hill Road. The Union Hill interchange will be delivered in Phase One of the $11 billion Georgia 400 Express Lanes project, breaking ground this spring. That level of direct access is unmatched and essential for any major entertainment or professional sports destination.
Equally important, Forsyth County has built a strong public-private partnership with The Gathering development team and SR 400 Peach Partners, both of whom believe in this site and its long-term viability. The Union Hill interchange is one of only two exits on the planned GA 400 Express Lanes that will feature direct managed-lane ingress and egress. The only other location with that distinction is Holcomb Bridge Road. We believe that matters when evaluating regional access, traffic flow and the overall fan and visitor experience. In fact, the CEO of SR 400 Peach Partners, the private developer that will design, construct, operate, maintain and toll the new Express Lanes project, recently said the following:
“The Georgia 400 Express Lanes project is about improving regional connectivity and supporting the long-term growth of North Fulton and Forsyth County. SR 400 Peach Partners recognizes the important role developments like The Gathering will play in shaping the future of the corridor, and we are committed to working collaboratively with local stakeholders to help ensure connectivity and a positive experience for those who live, work and visit the area.” – Javier Gutierrez, CEO – SR 400 Peach Partners
The Georgia 400 Express Lanes project represents the largest public-private infrastructure investment in Georgia’s history, and Forsyth County is positioned at the forefront of its benefits. By aligning transportation infrastructure with smart development, we are creating more predictable travel times, reduced congestion and direct access that supports both daily commuters and large-scale events – be it professional hockey or a top-tier concert.
Forsyth County is competing on location, infrastructure, access and execution, and not speculation. This site delivers on all four, and that is why it stands apart as the ideal location for not only an NHL franchise, but also one of America’s premier dining and retail venues
Sincerely,
Alfred John
Forsyth County Board of Commissioners Chairman
District 2 Commissioner