Commercial and Residential Locksmiths in Smyrna, GA

The plan focuses on two large parcels purchased by the city from Smyrna First Baptist Church, which is moving to a new location in two years.

SMYRNA, Ga. — The city of Smyrna unveiled an ambitious downtown redevelopment plan this week that, if fully realized, would add 350 new homes to the area as well as a hotel, small food hall, greatly expanded mixed-use space and a bike/foot path.

It is a nearly-finalized plan that would primarily transform two large parcels of land next to the existing downtown footprint.

In its current state, the parcels include the Smyrna First Baptist Church complex and its parking lot, west of Atlanta Road, and a further plot across King Street that includes another parking lot and ball fields. The city purchased the land from the church earlier this year for just shy of $16 million, and the church will move to a new location sometime in the next 2-3 years, the same time development would be slated to begin.

The plan released Monday night includes several core features -- large new mixed-use ad residential developments on either side of King Street where the parking lots and ball fields currently sit; a "Jonquil Mile" bike/foot path extending up King Street and around the new developments (connecting to new pathways already built around the north end of the downtown footprint by the city library and community center); a boutique hotel to go on top of an old out-of-use church building at the corner of Memorial Place and Church Street; and an event/green space across from the hotel site next to the church's historic chapel, which would be preserved into the redevelopment design.

Luis Calvo with MKSK, a planning and urban design firm that consulted with Smyrna, spoke at Monday night's meeting and did note that realistically, "What you all see built on the site will almost surely not look like the massing that I'm showing you today."

"This is a community driven vision. These are things that we know are important to you all. It is now council and the city's jobs to align the needs of a developer with this vision and make a development that gets us somewhere in the middle," Calvo said. "Hopefully more towards the community priorities, but somewhere that's realistic."

He noted that any final deal between the city and a developer would include negotiations that alter the plan presented Monday night.

A rendering for the King Street mixed-use redevelopment was included in the plan, as was a rendering of the reimagined chapel space as well as photos of bike/foot paths in Indianapolis and Carmel, Indiana that give a sense of how the "Jonquil Mile" would look.

The King Street developments would be about five stories high, officials said at Monday night's meeting.

The plan would include parking decks for each of the two new mixed-use builds, though the city anticipates reduced vehicle demand in the area with more bikeability and walkability built in.

There would also be expanded sidewalks/outdoor dining space on West Spring Street, which is the current spine through the existing Market Village downtown development (that would also coincide with a narrowing of the current green median).

According to the city, what would happen next is tweaking any final revisions, testing the plan's development feasibility and providing recommendations for the future bid process in finding a developer. The city would, provisionally, adopt the plan officially in January or February.

The city outlined the process of finding a developer in a slide included in the plan.

You can see an overview of the existing site below.

All In Tree Service of Smyrna has issued new guidance for homeowners following an increase in calls related to tree root failures linked to the region’s heavy clay soil. The company reports consistent cases of leaning trees, exposed root systems, and full uprooting after seasonal storms. These issues appear most often in neighborhoods such as King Springs Vinings Estates Forest Hills Williams Park and areas along the Concord Road corridor where red clay soil is widespread.

Local arborists explain that Smyrna’s clay soil plays a direct role in how roots form and how trees respond during periods of rain and drought. Clay soil contains very fine particles that pack tightly and slow water movement. This structure limits oxygen flow underground and makes it difficult for roots to grow deep into the ground. As the soil becomes saturated during storms and then hardens during dry weather it places long term stress on trees. Surface roots become common and tree stability weakens over time.

Marketing director Alex Laldin states the increase in storm damage events is connected to how these soil conditions affect root development. He explains that many homeowners do not know how clay soil behaves until they see visible signs around their property. He says people are surprised by how quickly a tree can decline once soil saturation and root stress start to develop. He adds that the company wants to share information so residents understand these soil patterns before a major failure occurs.

The company notes that shallow root growth is one of the most common issues in the Smyrna area. Trees attempt to expand sideways because they struggle to push through dense clay. This often produces top heavy trees that are more likely to fall during strong wind. Water oaks willow oaks red maples sweetgums Bradford pears and pines planted in compacted soil are some of the species that show the highest rates of shallow rooting in the region. These trees may look healthy but their root anchors can weaken after long periods of rain.

All In Tree Service reports frequent cases of root rot in older neighborhoods such as Williams Park and Forest Hills. Clay soil drains slowly which can allow water to remain around the base of a tree for long periods. This creates ideal conditions for fungal decay. Root rot often develops out of sight until mushrooms soft wood peeling bark or dead canopy sections appear. Laldin notes that many homeowners call only after they see mushrooms or smell decay near the base and by that time root strength is already compromised.

Soil compaction is another problem observed across Smyrna especially in areas with recent construction. Heavy machinery driveway extensions and repeated foot traffic compress the clay even further. Compaction restricts air movement and water flow which limits new root growth. Properties near commercial zones such as Cumberland and high traffic corridors often show the strongest signs of compaction stress. Trees in compacted soil may drop limbs without warning or uproot in large sections during storms.

The company reports that sudden uprooting remains one of the most significant hazards. Extended rainfall softens clay layers which reduces the grip roots have in the ground. Trees on slopes and trees near recently developed lots show higher rates of failure. Once the soil loosens a strong wind can lift the root plate in a single motion. These events often create major property damage and can block roads driveways and access points.

Alex Laldin states that residents often assume a tree will show clear signs before it becomes dangerous but clay soil makes symptoms harder to detect. He says people think a tree has deep roots just because it is large or has been on the property for decades but many of these trees are growing almost entirely at the surface. He adds that this is why the company encourages regular assessments for homeowners who live in clay dominant areas.

Homeowners in Smyrna can watch for several early signs of soil and root stress. These include leaning trees cracking soil near the base thinning canopies exposed surface roots fungus growth and standing water after rain. Trees with these symptoms may decline quickly if conditions persist. Arborists note that early inspection can prevent full failure and can help determine whether soil improvements or pruning can stabilize the tree.

All In Tree Service explains several steps that help protect roots in clay soil. Mulching around the root zone helps reduce compaction and improves moisture control. Soil aeration increases oxygen flow and allows roots to expand more easily. Improved drainage such as redirecting downspouts or adjusting grading reduces the risk of root rot. Regular trimming lightens the canopy and reduces stress during storms. In cases where decay has advanced removal may be the only safe option.

Laldin says the company wants to help homeowners understand that clay soil is not a small issue but a major factor in long term tree stability across Smyrna. He says many people move to neighborhoods with mature hardwoods and do not realize those trees have grown in dense clay for decades. He explains that proactive care such as aeration and pruning can help trees withstand wind and seasonal shifts better than reactive emergency work after a fall.

The company encourages residents to request tree root and soil assessments if they notice unusual soil movement leaning trunks or repeated standing water. Evaluations help identify hidden decay and weak root systems before severe weather increases the risk of failure. Arborists can determine whether a tree can be restored with soil improvements or if removal is necessary for safety.

As storm patterns continue to affect the region local professionals expect ongoing demand for assessments and structural care. All In Tree Service states that the goal is to help the community reduce preventable damage and maintain safe healthy trees in areas shaped by Georgia’s distinct clay soil conditions. Laldin says the company hopes this information helps homeowners better understand the role soil plays in tree health and encourages them to take early steps before severe weather arrives.

For more information about All In Tree Service of Smyrna, contact the company here:

All In Tree Service of SmyrnaRudy Perez6786582550Office@AllInTreeServicesandPro.com4500 W Village Pl Suite 2015, Smyrna, GA 30080

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Snow is expected to flurry into Cobb and Paulding counties on Monday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

An updated weather outlook showed the flurries could arrive before 9 p.m. in local towns, such as Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw and Dallas. It could flurry before 10 p.m. in Cartersville, Canton and Holly Springs.

High temperatures were in the upper 30s while low temperatures are expected to be in the mid-20s come nightfall.

This comes as the NWS issued a winter weather advisory through Tuesday morning in northeast Georgia, where snowfall could reach 3 inches in areas above 2,000 feet.

"Flurries may be seen across other areas of North Georgia, but are not expected to cause hazardous travel conditions," the NWS reported.

Must Ministries, a nonprofit serving Cobb and nearby areas, is opening a winter weather shelter at 1297 Bells Ferry Road in Marietta for Monday and Tuesday.

Here is the National Weather Service's detailed forecast for Cobb County:

This Afternoon: A chance of flurries. Partly sunny, with a high near 39. Northwest wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph.

Tonight: A chance of flurries before 9pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 24. Northwest wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Veterans Day: Sunny, with a high near 48. West wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph.

Tuesday Night: Clear, with a low around 34. Southwest wind around 5 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph.

Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 62. West wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 41.

Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 66.

Thursday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 69.

Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 45.

Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 73.

Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 50.

Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.

Sunday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 51.

Monday: A chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 67.

The Atlanta restaurant openings we’re looking forward to this fall and beyond.

Fall in Atlanta brings a lot of things. The ability to eat on a patio without melting. Trips to North Georgia for apple picking and winery hopping. Walking the Beltline to enjoy the trees painted in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. Renewed hope for a winning Falcons season (however fleeting). And of course, our favorite activity of all: scouting out future restaurant openings around the city.

Grand Opening Oct. 18, 2025

Popular food truck Momma’s Cup of Rice is going brick-and-mortar with a location in Fayetteville. Their playfully named signature rice bowls—Parenthood, Blended Family, and Co-Parent—are sticking around, with new additions like loaded fries and mocktails joining the lineup. And because it's called Momma's, we’re fully expecting comfort, warmth, and maybe even a few unsolicited life lessons.

Grand Opening Oct. 23, 2025

Ghee Indian Kitchen, which is one of will open an outpost in the old space on Howell Mill this fall. Expect a big 13-course tasting menu and dishes like chicken tandoori and duck biryani. According to our colleagues, it's "Indian food done Miami style," so we're wondering if they bring any ATL spins, too.

The transplants keep coming. This time from NYC: Asian-fusion restaurant Lo Kee is shooting to be another date night destination when it opens in West Midtown at the end of October. Dishes like chicken satay and salt and pepper prawns will be on the menu.

Opening Spring 2026

Egg lovers, rejoice. LA’s Eggslut is expanding to Atlanta, bringing their pillowy egg sandwiches to Krog District. Think soft scrambled eggs with chives, cheddar, caramelized onions, and sriracha mayo on a brioche bun—another reason for us to get in our morning Beltline walks.

Opening 2026

The old McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steakhouse downtown will get a glow up, just in time for the World Cup when high-end seafood and steakhouse Mastro’s is reportedly set to take over the space. As much as we’re excited about the World Cup, I think we’re even more excited for Mastro’s butter cake.

Our favorite local burger chain, Grindhouse Killer Burgers is set to open yet another location, this one in Underwood Hills in 2025, near Chattworks. The location will get an upgrade, with an adults-only rooftop deck—so expect skyline views with your boozy Spottie Ottie cChocolicious shake and juicy burger.

Opening 2025

The team behind Talat Market is bringing a new Thai restaurant and bar, Some Luck, to Poncey-Highland. The new restaurant will take over the Highland Ballroom Lounge space and will feature bar snacks, noodle soups, wings, and other dishes inspired by late-night food stalls in Thailand. And it's expected to stay open late, so we have plans to roll up in our PJs to order Thai beer and eat grilled meats.

Opening 2025

Portillo's, known for its Chicago-style hotdogs and Italian beef sandwiches, is opening its first restaurant in the Southeast. The new Kennesaw location will have indoor and outdoor seating, as well as its signature double drive-thru lanes. No word if we have to refer to sodas as "pop" here.

Opening 2025

We love , so a second location in Brookhaven is music to our ears. The Mexican restaurant will offer a range of Latin wines—that sings to us as well.

Opening 2025

Atlanta’s on a bit of a “members only” streak lately, and the rumor is that Seahorse might join the club. From the team behind Muss & Turner’s, , and War Horse (their current membership-exclusive bar), the sushi restaurant is set to open in 2025 inside the Borghese business building. Expect it to be big (and maybe pricey)—2,943 square feet, with a buildout just over $1 million.

Opening 2025

Students at the AUC will have a new brunch and coffee option to check out when Black-owned Rosie’s Coffee Cafe opens its fourth location in the newly revitalized Roosevelt Hall. The hall just got a historical marker. Can your neighborhood pancake spot boast that?

Opening 2026

After 80 years in business, the iconic Busy Bee Cafe is finally getting a second hive. This one will be 4,000 square feet, with a bar and a patio. It'll open in Atlantic Station, and we may be willing to suffer the city's ultimate teen zone if it yields a bite of Busy Bee's excellent fried chicken and peach cobbler.

Opening 2026

Our place in Atlanta is opening a new location downtown with a patio that offers awesome views of. And here’s also hoping their consistency of greatness rubs off on our hometown teams.

Opening 2026

The team behind Delbar and Bibi (restaurants we already ) are opening a new French Mediterranean spot called Eden in the Star Metals District in 2026. It sounds like a production—there’s a 50-seat bar, a movie theater-style speakeasy inspired by Iranian cinema, and a 2,300-square-foot rooftop bar called (of course) the Garden of Eden.