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2050 MACON-BIBB COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Macon-Bibb County Mayor/Board of Commissioners

Lester Miller, Mayor Valerie Wynn, Commissioner-District 1 Paul Bronson, Commissioner-District 2 Elaine Lucas, Commissioner-District 3 Mallory Jones, III., Commissioner-District 4 Seth Clark, Mayor Pro Tem, Commissioner-District 5 Raymond Wilder, Commissioner-District 6 Bill Howell, Commissioner-District 7 Virgil Watkins, Jr., Commissioner-District 8 Al Tillman, Commissioner-District 9

Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Commissioners

Jeane H. Easom, Chair Bryan W. Scott, Vice-Chair Gary Bechtel Tim Jones Josh Rogers

Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Design Review Board

Chris Clark, Chair Carrie Robinson George Thomas Lauren Mauldin Will Stanford

2022 Year of the Plan - Comprehensive Plan Update Steering Committee

Stephen Adams, Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority Jaime Arnold, Eisenhower Business Improvement District Michael T. Austin, Macon Housing Authority Carla Beasley, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park Greg Boike, Middle Georgia Regional Commission Paul Bronson, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 2 Deborah J. Burks, Central Georgia Technical College Brenda Claiborne, Century 21 Crowe Realty Seth Clark, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 5 Verda M. Colvin, Supreme Court of Georgia, One-Macon Jeane Easom, Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Commissioner Thomas C. Ellington, Wesleyan College Ethiel Garlington, Historic Macon Foundation Jami Gaudet, Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority Lisa Golphin, Macon Water Authority

Judy A. Gordon, Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Neighborhood Watch Myrtle S. Habersham, AARP Georgia Ivey Hall, Macon Area Habitat for Humanity Cass Hatcher, River Edge Behavioral Health Center Bill Howell, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 7 Wanzina N. Jackson, Macon-Bibb Economic & Community Development Department Mallory Jones, III., Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 4 Sam Kitchens, Bibb County School District Karen J. Lambert, Peyton Anderson Foundation Joey S. Leverette, Macon Water Authority Elaine Lucas, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 3 Caitlin Mee, Vineville Neighborhood Association Lester Miller, Mayor, Macon-Bibb County Alex Morrison, Urban Development Authority Josh Rogers, NewTown Macon Ron Shipman, Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce David S. Sims, Middle Georgia State University WyKesia Stafford, Stafford Builders & Consultants, Inc. David D. Thompson, Piedmont Construction Group, LLC., One-Macon Al Tillman, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 9 Louis F. Tompkins, Macon-Bibb Age-Friendly Council Everett Verner, Macon-Bibb County Land Bank Authority Robert Walker, Macon-Bibb County Parks and Recreation Virgil Watkins, Jr., Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 8 Raymond Wilder, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 6 Julie Wilkerson, Macon Arts Alliance Valerie Wynn, Macon-Bibb County Commission, District 1

Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Staff Assistance

Jeffrey C. Ruggieri, Executive Director, AICP Michael Greenwald, Planning Director, AICP Gregory L. Brown, Assistant Planning Director Ken North, Senior Planner Habibat Idris, GIS Manager Mark Strozier, Communications Manager

Stakeholders and Community Partners

Macon-Bibb County City Hall Macon-Bibb Transit Authority (Transfer Station) Kingdom Life Church Lundy Chapel Baptist Church Elaine H. Lucas Senior Center Delores A. Brooks Recreation Center Rosa Jackson Community Center Porter-Ellis Community Center

Macon Mall Bibb County Neighborhood Watch Association Mulberry Market @ Tattnall Square Park Georgia Department of Driver Services (Macon)

Local Media and Print Media

13WMAZ WGXA News (Fox24/ABC16) 41WMGT The Telegraph Middle Georgia Informer The Macon Newsroom Middle Georgia CEO eNewsletter MBPZ Comprehensive Plan eNewsletter Middle Georgia Times

LESTER M. MILLER MAYOR

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR Macon-Bibb County

700 POPLAR STREET P.O. BOX 247 MACON, GEORGIA 31202-0247 (478) 751-7170 FAX (478) 751-7931

August 19, 2022

Greg Boike Director of Public Administration Middle Georgia Regional Commission 175 Emery Highway, Suite C Macon, GA 31217

RE: 2022 Comprehensive Plan Submittal

Dear Mr. Boike:

Macon-Bibb County has completed an update of its comprehensive plan and is submitting it via this letter for review by the Middle Georgia Regional Commission and the Department of Community Affairs.

I certify that we have held the required public hearings and have involved the public in development of the plan in a manner appropriate to our community’s dynamics and resources. Evidence of this has been included with our submittal.

I certify that appropriate staff and decision-makers have reviewed both the Regional Water Plan covering our area and the Rules for Environmental Planning Criteria (O.C.G.A. 12-2-8) and taken them into consideration in formulating our plan.

If you have any questions concerning our submittal, please contact me at.

Sincerely,

Lester M. Miller Mayor, Macon-Bibb County

Cc: Jeff Ruggieri, Executive Director, Macon-Bibb County Planning and Zoning

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LEGISLATIVE SPONSORS

☑ MAYOR LESTER M. MILLER ☐ COMMISSIONER VALERIE WYNN ☐ COMMISSIONER ELAINE LUCAS ☐ COMMISSIONER RAYMOND WILDER ☐ COMMISSIONER VIRGIL WATKINS, JR.

☐ MAYOR PRO TEMPORE SETH CLARK ☐ COMMISSIONER PAUL BRONSON ☐ COMMISSIONER MALLORY C. JONES, III ☐ COMMISSIONER BILL HOWELL ☐ COMMISSIONER AL TILLMAN

A RESOLUTION OF THE MACON-BIBB COUNTY COMMISSION APPROVING THE UPDATE TO THE MACON-BIBB COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AS REQUIRED BY THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS; AND FOR OTHER LAWFUL PURPOSES.

WHEREAS, comprehensive planning is an important management tool for promoting a strong, healthy, and vibrant community in Macon-Bibb County, Georgia; and

WHEREAS, comprehensive plans are guides that determine how communities shape their growth and development in the future and act as a management tool to guide the decision-making process for land use, housing, transportation, the environment, and public facilities including public parks, community and recreation centers, and trails; and

WHEREAS, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (“DCA”) Rule 110-12-1-.02 states that “[i]n order to maintain qualified local government certification, and thereby remain eligible for selected state funding and permitting programs, each local government must prepare, adopt, maintain, and implement a comprehensive plan as specified in these standards [provided in the DCA rules]”; and

WHEREAS, DCA Rule 110-12-1-.02(5) states that “[DCA] maintains and makes available on its website a recertification schedule identifying the deadlines for comprehensive plan updates, and the specific plan elements that must be included in each update, for all counties and municipalities in Georgia”; and

WHEREAS, the 2030 Comprehensive Plan was adopted by the former Bibb County Government and the former City of Macon in February of 2006, with updates required every five (5) years, pursuant to DCA Rule 110-12-1; and

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WHEREAS, the Macon-Bibb County Comprehensive Plan was last updated in October of 2017; and

WHEREAS, in light of the new rule, the Macon-Bibb County Comprehensive Plan Update is due to the State by October 31, 2022; and

WHEREAS, a copy of the Macon-Bibb County Comprehensive Plan Update is available upon request in the Office of the Clerk of Commission; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Macon-Bibb County Commission, and it is hereby so resolved by the authority of the same, that the Macon-Bibb County Commission approves the updates to the Macon-Bibb County Comprehensive Plan, available in the Office of the Clerk of Commission, as required by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Macon-Bibb County Commission hereby declares that the foregoing preamble and whereas provisions set forth hereinabove constitute, and shall be considered to be, substantive provisions of this Resolution and are hereby incorporated by reference into this provision.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in the event scrivener's errors shall be discovered in this Resolution or in the Exhibits hereto after the adoption hereof, the Macon-Bibb County Commission hereby authorizes and directs that each such scrivener's error shall be corrected in all multiple counterparts of this Resolution.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Macon-Bibb County Commission grants the Mayor the authority to take any and all further actions necessary to carry out the intents and purposes of this Resolution.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that except as specifically provided herein, any and all ordinances or resolutions or parts of ordinances or resolutions in conflict with this Resolution shall be and the same hereby are repealed, and this Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in the event that this Resolution or part thereof is found by any court of competent jurisdiction to be substantively more appropriately denominated an act of ordinance by the Macon-Bibb County Commission, it is the intent of this Commission that this Resolution or such portion thereof shall be considered to have been adopted as an ordinance of the Macon-Bibb County Commission. Where any law bearing on the subject matter of this Resolution calls for the taking of any legislative action by the governing authority of Macon-

Bibb County, and such law specifies for such action to be taken by resolution or by ordinance, it is the intent of this Commission that this Resolution satisfy such requirement, and that this Resolution be construed accordingly.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED this Resolution shall become effective immediately upon its approval by the Mayor or upon its adoption into law without such approval.

APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 1 day of November, 2022.

By: [Signature] LESTER M. MILLER, Mayor

Attest: [Signature] JANICE S. ROSS, Clerk of Commission

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Q:\RES MACON-BIBB\2022 Miller Accepting Required 5 Year Updates To MBC Comprehensive Plan - 10-7-22.Docx

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1: Introduction......................................................................................1 Location Purpose of Planning Planning History Planning Process Steering Committee Organization

Chapter 2: Community Goals..............................................................................10 Vision Statement List of Community Goals

Chapter 3: Needs and Opportunities.................................................................16 SWOT Analysis

Chapter 4: Sociodemographic and Forecasting................................................26

Chapter 5: Land Use...........................................................................................60 Existing Land Use Future Land Use

Chapter 6: Housing.............................................................................................76

Chapter 7: Community Work Program..............................................................85 Community Facilities Report of Accomplishments

Chapter 8: Transportation................................................................................132

Chapter 9: Natural and Cultural Resources.....................................................138

Chapter 10: Broadband.....................................................................................159

Chapter 11: Economic Development................................................................183

Appendices Appendix A: Public Involvement Documentation..................................................185 Appendix B: Media/Social Media Outreach..........................................................302 Appendix C: Community Survey Results.............................................................327 Appendix D: Comments received during draft plan review period......................352 Appendix E: Walnut Creek Village Amendment to Macon-Bibb Urban Redevelopment Plan (10/31/2012).................................................................358

MAPS

Map 1-1: | Macon-Bibb and Neighboring Counties....................................................................3 Map 4-1: | MATS MPO Future Land Use......................................................................................55 Map 4-2: | MATS Area Anticipated 2050 Population Growth Distribution, by County..................58 Map 5-1: | Distribution of Existing Land Uses in Bibb County (by Georgia Dept. of | Revenue Classification), As of 17 May 2017.......................................................................65 Map 5-2: | Updated 2050 Future Land Use Map for Macon-Bibb County........................................72 Map 5-3: | Changes in Macon-Bibb County Future Land Use Designations from | 2040 to 2050 Planning Horizon Year.................................................................................74 Map 8-1: | Overview of Macon Bibb Downtown Parking Managed by | Lanier Parking Group........................................................................................................134 Map 8-2: | MATS MPO Service Area..............................................................................................136 Map 9-1: | Lamar Mounds Addition Property (Future Expansion of OMNHP).rk.........................144 Map 9-2: | Macon-Bibb Historic District Locations.........................................................................149 Map 9-3: | Napier Heights Proposed Historic District....................................................................154 Map 9-4: | Preserving Historic and Cultural Resources..................................................................155 Map 9-5: | Conserving Key Scenic and Land Conservation areas..................................................156 Map 9-6: | Increasing Recreational Opportunities..........................................................................157 Map 9-7: | Overall Priorities...........................................................................................................158 Map 10-1: | Distribution of Bibb County Households Without Broadband Service..........................167 Map 10-2: | Historic Redlining of Macon Neighborhoods.................................................................176 Map 11-1: | Georgia 2022 Job Tax Credit Tiers...............................................................................183

TABLES

Table 1-1: | Public Involvement Schedule..........................................................................................5 Table 1-2: | Steering Committee.........................................................................................................6 Table 4-1: | Total Population, by Race of Bibb County for 2010, 2015 (estimated), | And 2020...........................................................................................................................27 Table 4-2: | Marginal Percentages of Educational Attainment in 2019 for the | Macon-Bibb County Population Age 25 and Over............................................................34 Table 4-3: | Distribution of Employment by NAICS Category and GDOT Travel Demand | Modeling Category, by County, across the MATS Area...................................................46 Table 4-4: | Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry | Group..................................................................................................................................47 Table 4-5: | MATS Area Future Land Use Net Acreage, by County, by Category.............................54 Table 4-6: | Anticipated Population Growth in Bibb County MATS Area Portions.............................56 Table 4-7: | Breakdown of Anticipated Population Growth in Bibb County by Age Group...........56 Table 5-1: | Summary of Existing Land Use in Bibb County (by Georgia Dept. of Revenue | Classification), As of 17 May 2017..................................................................................66 Table 5-2: | Summary of Vacant Parcel Acreage in Bibb County, by Existing Land Use | (by Georgia Dept. of Revenue Classification) and Water & Sewer Availability, | As of 17 May 2017............................................................................................................67 Table 5-3: | Summary of 2050 Future Land Use Acres, By Category, | for Macon-Bibb County.....................................................................................................71 Table 5-4: | Change to 2050 Future Land Use...................................................................................73 Table 6-1: | Housing Occupancy Rate, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile..............................77 Table 6-2: | Housing Stock (Mix), 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile....................................78

Table 6-3: Housing Age and Condition, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile..................................79 Table 6-4: Housing Tenure: Owner and Renter Occupied, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile..................................................................................................................80 Table 6-5: Housing Cost, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile......................................................81 Table 9-1: List of Impaired Waterways in Macon-Bibb County, As Identified by Georgia EPD................................................................................................................................147 Table 10-1: Residential Broadband Availability by Macon-Bibb County Commission District....................................................................................................................168 Table 10-2: Coverage of Internet Service Providers in Macon-Bibb County Providing CONSUMER/RESIDENTIAL Service, by Technology Type........................................................169 Table 10-3: Coverage of Internet Service Providers in Macon-Bibb County Providing BUSINESS CLASS Service, by Technology Type........................................................................170 Table 10-4: Coverage of Internet Service Providers in Macon-Bibb County Providing BOTH RESIDENTIAL/CONSUMER And BUSINESS CLASS Service, by Technology Type........171 Table 10-5: Commercially Available Transmission Rate Maximums, by Technology Type (in Megabits per Second), With Macon-Bibb Observed Comparison Values for Consumer/Residential Accounts.................................................................................................172 Table 10-6: Summary of ISP Technologies Available in HOLC Neighborhoods...................................178 Table 10-7: Minimum, Maximum and Average of Highest Reported ISP Upload and Download Speeds in HOLC Neighborhoods, by Technology Type..........................................179

FIGURES

Figure 4-1: Bibb County Population Trends, 1960-2050.......................................................................26 Figure 4-2: Bibb County Median Age Profile, by Race...........................................................................28 Figure 4-3: Median Household income (In 2019 Inflation Adjusted Dollars) by MATS Sub Area and Race (where available)........................................................................30 Figure 4-4: Housing Occupancy in Bibb County....................................................................................32 Figure 4-5: Bibb County Housing Tenure, by Race................................................................................33 Figure 4-6: Educational Attainment for Population in Macon-Bibb County Age 25 Years and Over................................................................................................................36 Figure 4-7: Summary of Non-English Speaking Households, by Language Group, In Macon-Bibb County................................................................................................................37 Figure 4-8: Summary of Capacity for English among Non-Native English Speaking Population in Macon-Bibb County, by Language Group...........................................................38 Figure 4-9: Workers by Place of Work-State and County Level...........................................................40 Figure 4-10: Mode of Travel to Work........................................................................................................41 Figure 4-11: Distribution of Work Commute Times in Bibb County for Persons Age 16 and Over Who Drive Alone....................................................................................................42 Figure 4-12: Distribution of Work Commute Times in Bibb County for Persons Age 16 and Over Who Carpooled......................................................................................................43 Figure 4-13: Distribution of Work Commute Times in Bibb County for Persons Age 16 and Over Who Used Public Transportation..........................................................................44 Figure 4-14: Employment by GDOT Modeling Category for MATS MPO Consolidated Area and Bibb County (2015 Base Year, and 2050 Projected)................................................53 Figure 6-1: Trends in Household Tenure by Ethnic Group, 2010 – 2015...............................................80 Figure 9-1: Ocmulgee River, Below Spring Street Bridge, at Flood Stage, 28 December 2015.....................................................................................................................142

Chapter 1 | Introduction

Macon-Bibb County Commission adopted the 2017 Macon-Bibb County Comprehensive Plan Update on October 17, 2017, for the purpose of outlining the vision and forecasting the community’s long-range planning needs for the next ten years and beyond. The Georgia Planning Act of 1989 articulates the requirement that every local government in Georgia develop a comprehensive plan meeting the minimum established standards to maintain qualified local government certification.

At the midpoint of this plan, part of maintaining the plan is for each government to complete a five-year update. This update includes a Report of Accomplishments toward fulfilling the previous five-year Community Work Program and developing a new Community Work Program for the remainder of the ten-year plan. Staff with Macon-Bibb County Planning and Zoning Commission have collaborated with staff for Macon-Bibb County to develop this 2021-2026 Report of Accomplishments and Community Work Program 2022-2027 for this scheduled plan update. According to state regulations, this must be adopted by Macon-Bibb County Government prior to October 31, 2022.

Comprehensive plans are guides that determine how communities shape their growth and development in the future. Used by local governments, comprehensive plans function as a management tool to guide the decision-making process for land use, housing, transportation, the environment, and public facilities including public parks, community and recreation centers, and trails. Members of the Macon – Bibb County community and its leadership have come together to determine which direction the County is headed in the future and what its overarching vision for that future is. This plan update is written to guide Macon – Bibb County’s vision that includes neighborhoods, businesses, industries, investments, redevelopment, recreation, and quality of life.

This plan update documents the overarching community goals for Macon – Bibb County over the long term while placing particular attention on the priorities and action items for the short term. The plan update should serve as a policy guide for County staff and elected officials to utilize on a regular basis and be utilized in helping to make annual budgeting, capital funding, grant application and land use decisions.

This plan has been prepared to comply with the rules of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Chapter 110-12-1, “Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning,” effective October 1, 2018. This rule requires local governments to draft a 20-year comprehensive plan every 5-years to achieve and maintain a “Qualified Local Government” (QLG) status. The QLG designation is required for local governments to be eligible for state funding and permitting.

The new standards for local plan preparation as outlined by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), have made the plans simpler, more flexible, customized, and provide for continuity. The planning process sets the priorities for community goals, needs and

opportunities and community work program. Public participation from the rules calls for each element of the comprehensive plan to be prepared with opportunity for involvement and input from the stakeholders and the general public, in order to ensure that the plan reflects the full range of the community needs and values.

The Comprehensive Plan addresses three simple questions: (1). Where are we now?; (2). Where do we plan to be?; and (3). How will we get there?

Local businesses, community leaders and county officials will use the updated Comprehensive Plan by: (1). Referencing the future land use map in making rezoning and capital investment decisions (It provides a representation of the community’s vision helping to guide development based on community preferences and indicates areas where diverse types of land uses should be permitted). (2). Reviewing policies that help guide day-to-day decisions (These policies are reflections of community values identified through public outreach efforts that will be used as guidelines in the analysis of rezoning decisions and other capital investment decisions); and (3). Developing an implementation program that will direct public investment and private initiative (Plan implementation is carried out through the adoption and revision of regulations, including zoning and development codes, and through the completion of projects and programs outlined in the Community Goals and Community Work Program).

Location Macon-Bibb County is in Middle Georgia, approximately 70 miles south of Atlanta and 150 miles northwest of Savannah. Mostly urban in nature, Macon-Bibb County encompasses 255 square miles and has a population of 157,346, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. The county is home to nine institutions of higher education and three major hospitals that provide world-class care, including the area’s only Level One trauma center. Macon-Bibb County is also the cultural center for the Middle Georgia region with the Museum of Arts and Sciences, Tubman African American Museum, Macon Symphony Orchestra, and Georgia Sports Hall of Fame. In addition, Macon-Bibb County has a strong presence of historic resources, such as the Ocmulgee National Monument, Fort Hawkins, the Ocmulgee River, 14 historic districts and numerous structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The county is also home to six annual festivals and a multitude of events, including the Macon Cherry Blossom Festival, Ocmulgee Indian Festival, Tubman Pan African Festival, Mid-Summer Macon, Arrowhead Indian Festival, and many others. The county once relied on the textile industry for its economic foundation. These industries have not only left the area, but have left the country. This shift resulted in the county scrambling to replace lost jobs, maintain current jobs, and create new opportunities for residents. Because of these economic hardships, the county now has a lower income level and higher crime rates than both the State of Georgia and national averages. As of April 2020, the per capita income for the county is $25,519, while Georgia has a per capita income of $32,427. As Georgia has a poverty rate of 14.0%, Macon-Bibb County greatly exceeds the state’s, with a poverty rate of 25.0%.¹ Like many urban centers, the area is plagued with depressed incomes and high poverty rates, thus unemployment, crime, and most of all, blight continues to expand.² See map 1-1 for Macon-Bibb and Neighboring Counties.

Map 1-1: Macon-Bibb and Neighboring Counties

Macon-Bibb and Neighboring Counties

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Published by Habibat Idris

1 cm = 1 mile

Legend

	Macon-Bibb		Twiggs County
	Crawford County		Jones County
	Peach County		Monroe County
	Houston County

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The Macon-Bibb County's Infrastructure records, drawings, and other documents have been gathered over many years, using differing standards for quality control, documentation, and verification. All of the data provided represents current information in a readily available format. While the data provided is generally believed to accurate, occasionally it proves to be incorrect; thus its accuracy is not warranted. Prior to making any property purchases or other investments based in full or in part upon the material provided, it is specifically advised that you independently field verify the information contained within our records. Date: 7/21/2022

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Purpose of Planning Comprehensive planning is an important management tool for promoting a strong, healthy, and vibrant community. A comprehensive plan is a significant policy document that guides the physical development of a community; it can be used to promote orderly and rational development so the County can remain physically attractive and economically viable while preserving important natural and historic resources. The comprehensive plan allows the community to become more certain about where development will occur, what it will be like, when it will happen, and how the costs of development will be met. It helps the County invest its money wisely in infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer service, parks and green space, and other facilities to maintain and improve residents’ quality of life as well as economic development prospects. A comprehensive plan has value in terms of transparency. In adopting a comprehensive plan, the local government is offering information on intentions and likely future conditions. The plan provides an “environment of predictability” for businesses, institutions, industries, investors, property owners, and residents. Communities that engage in planning are more likely to be better prepared to attract new growth in a highly competitive global market. Local planning can help the community reinforce its strengths, overcome its weaknesses, capitalize on opportunities, and minimize or mitigate threats. The 2050 comprehensive plan update represents these and additional ideas discussed during the public participation process. It lists county-specific needs and opportunities, supporting goals and strategies, desired development patterns and land uses, and 5-year prioritized work program to implement the plan.

Planning History In February 1995, the Macon-Bibb County Planning and Zoning Commission began the task of developing the community’s first 2015 Comprehensive Land Use Plan that consisted of five (5) elements: Economic Development, Natural and Historic Resources, Community Facilities and Services, Housing and Land Use. In 2006, the Commission updated and adopted the new 2030 Comprehensive Plan entitled “Shared Visions – Planning Smart Choices”. This comprehensive plan update consisted of three (3) separate documents: Community Assessment, Community Agenda and Community Participation Program document. These documents were approved in compliance with the rules of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA). The 2017 comprehensive plan update marked the first time a comprehensive plan be developed and approved under the new Macon-Bibb County Consolidated government based on DCA rules, effective March 1, 2014. This rule implied that comprehensive plans be updated every five (5) years, as opposed to every ten (10) years. As we move to the current 2022-2027 Comprehensive Plan update, this plan was prepared in accordance with DCA rules that went into effect on October 1, 2018.

Planning Process Effective public outreach provides ample opportunity for citizens to be involved in the plan development process. It educates citizens about the purpose of the planning effort and the important role they play in developing the plan. As part of the Comprehensive Plan update, a public involvement schedule was developed, see table 1-1, and steering committee members and community stakeholders were engaged in several different ways throughout the planning process to actively voice their opinions about Macon – Bibb County’s future. The process began

in March 2022 with identifying community stakeholders to serve on the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. The committee, made up of interested citizens, elected, and appointed officials, neighborhood organizations, special interest groups, local government staff, and business owners, helps guide the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan, and provide technical assistance. On May 11, 2022, a kick-off meeting (first required public hearing) was held to brief the community on the process to be used to develop the plan, opportunities for public participation in development of the plan, and to obtain input on the proposed planning process. During each public involvement workshop, as outlined on the following schedule, presentations were given on specific topics. Workshop attendees also participated in visioning and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis exercises to provide feedback about the prioritization of funds to improve community facilities, and 20 years from now, Macon – Bibb would be a better place to live because.... These exercises helped to develop and refine concerns that are specific to the community.

Outside of the scheduled public outreach workshops, planning staff were able to attend Neighborhood Watch meetings, and be present at outdoor events such as The Mulberry Market at Tattnall Square Park.

Table 1-1: Public Involvement Schedule

The seven (7) month planning process also included the creation of an online community survey via Microsoft forms. Paper copies were available upon request. A total of 200 surveys were completed online, and 2 completed via hardcopy. Appendix A includes information received from the public participation process.

Steering Committee An official letter was composed in March 2022 to invite local elected officials, community residents, business owners, and other key community stakeholders to serve as steering committee members for the comprehensive plan update. The goal was to identify individuals who possess a genuine commitment to our community, has a thorough knowledge of Macon-Bibb County, and who had the time and talent needed to make the project a success. This committee was tasked with overseeing the development of the comprehensive plan and assisted the planning staff in promoting the plan during the planning process to obtain significant public input. Including the Mayor and all nine (9) Macon-Bibb County Commissioners, 51 invitations were extended to form the steering committee. As a result, the following individuals below made up the comprehensive plan update steering committee in table 1-2:

Table 1-2: Steering Committee

Organization

This comprehensive plan update is developed into eleven (11) chapters. Chapter 1 provides general information and introduces the comprehensive plan document. Chapter 2 includes the vision statement and lists the community goals for they identify the community’s direction for the future and are intended to generate local pride and enthusiasm about the future of the community. Chapter 3 analyzes and describes all “needs and opportunities” which were identified and refined during the community participation process. Chapter 4 provides a snapshot of the community demographic profile and describes the anticipated population projection through 2050. Chapter 5 provides an overview of land use that will include a character areas map and defining narrative or a future land use map and narrative. Chapter 6 provides an overview of the housing which evaluates the adequacy and suitability of the existing housing stock to serve current and future community needs. Chapter 7 provides an overview of community facilities and service. Chapter 8 provides an overview of transportation. Chapter 9 provides an overview of natural, cultural, and historic resources. Chapter 10 is a new element that provides an overview of broadband services throughout the county. Chapter 11 provides an overview of the economic prosperity of Macon-Bibb County.

The appendix section of the document provides public notices and meeting agendas from the public participation process, as well as references to additional supporting documents which have informed this analysis.

Chapter 2 | Community Goals

The Community Goals are the foundation of the Comprehensive Plan and a requirement of the state's planning statutes, for they identify the community's direction for the future, and are intended to generate local pride and enthusiasm about the future of the community. The goals lay out a road map for the community's future, developed through a public engagement process of involving community leaders and stakeholders. The plan will build upon the Community Goals by establishing a list of needs and opportunities the community intends to address and including action items to address these needs and opportunities in the Community Work Program. The goals list consists of broad statements of understanding and intent regarding the community's long-term growth and development. In addition to the list of needs and opportunities, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs' "Quality Community Objectives" were reviewed to form these topic-specific goals which guide the implementation strategies contained in the Community Work Program.

The Community Goals outlined in this section provide the following elements:

• General Vision Statement
• List of Community Goals

What is a Vision Statement? Visioning is the process of developing consensus about what future the community wants, and then deciding what is needed to achieve it. A vision statement captures what community members value most and provides a shared image of what they want their community to become. It inspires community members to work together to achieve common goals. A thoughtful vision statement is a key element needed to make rational and informed decisions on issues as they arise.

Revised Vision Statement Macon-Bibb County endeavors to be a diverse welcoming community growing sustainably with pride, prosperity, and a high quality of life for everyone.

List of Community Goals The following list represents recommended community goals and objectives for Macon-Bibb County. Many of the goals and objectives are carried over from the 2017 update, and some were identified during this 2022 update at public involvement workshops. The public and steering committee members engaged in a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis to help formulate goals and objectives. Additionally, goals and objectives were developed by referencing other community plans such as the Forward Together Strategic Plan, Mayoral Transition Team Report 2020, Macon-Bibb Urban Redevelopment Plan 2018, Macon Action Plan 2015, A Thriving Middle Georgia Plan 2015, On the Table 2019, Macon Cultural Plan, One Macon Plan 2.0, Macon-Bibb County Consolidated Plan, Macon Georgia's Saving Places Index 2022, and the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan. The SWOT exercises were done in general, but with various topics in mind to include, community facilities, economic development, housing, land use, natural, cultural & historic resources, transportation, education, governmental coordination, and neighborhoods.

Revised Land Use Goal: Maximize the use of existing infrastructure ensuring the most desirable and efficient use of land.

Objectives:

1. Manage land use and infrastructure efficiently and sensitively
2. Encourage development or redevelopment of sites closer to the traditional core of the community
3. Design new development to minimize the amount of land consumed
4. Carefully plan expansion of public infrastructure
5. Maintain open space in agricultural, forestry, or conservation uses
6. Establish Macon – Bibb County as a sustainable and green community
7. Incentivize redevelopment over new greenfield
8. Promote adaptive re-use of older structures including old schools and vacant buildings
9. Encourage the rehabilitation of historic structures
10. Protect natural & cultural environmental resources
11. Prioritize economic growth over Green & Sustainable developments
12. Create a vibrant, urban core in downtown area surrounded by neighborhoods
13. Further the development of small public spaces such as squares and passive parks throughout our community to enhance identity and attractiveness of neighborhoods
14. Focus on Form Base Codes in terms of redevelopment of vacant land, brownfield sites, multi-purpose/mixed-use areas where artists/artisans can live, sell merchandise, and fabricate artwork
15. Coordinate with the development community to ensure that growth is compatible with long-term goals of Macon-Bibb County
16. Incorporate multi-modal transportation options including walking, bicycling, and transit, into land use patterns
17. Employ principles of Transit Oriented Design in land use plan
18. Designate more areas for mixed use to include the central business district (downtown) and adjoining neighborhoods
19. Identify tax allocation districts on the future land use map as mixed use (Second Street Corridor)
20. Prioritize and then develop neighborhood level plans by involving the neighborhood residents in the process to improve their community
21. Address necessary updates to the County’s Zoning Resolution and Future Land Use Map to ensure code enforcement activities to address blight and community appearances
22. Regulate land use densities at an ideal level to prevent overloading of public facilities
23. Incorporate Inclusionary Zoning into the code of regulations
24. Maintain natural green buffers on both sides of the Ocmulgee River to protect the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park
25. Increase commercial activity surrounding the OMNHP (Campgrounds, businesses)

Revised Transportation Goal: Prioritize safe mobility and address transportation needs for all community residents.

Objectives:

1. Achieve greater walkability, bikeability, and overall mobility for day-to-day activities through transportation and land use coordination.
2. Foster alternatives to transportation by automobile, including walking, cycling, and public transit
3. Employ traffic calming measures throughout the community to allow for all modes of transportation
4. Require adequate connectivity between adjoining developments
5. Expand public transit opportunities to essential services (jobs, education, and other important destinations)
6. Coordinate transportation and land-use decision making within the community by reaching out to the public for participation
7. Careful development of walkable commercial districts at appropriate locations. (Example: Ingleside Village)
8. Work with public and private governmental partners to further multi-use trail development along rivers and other corridors and strategic routes within the county
9. Develop plan to limit delivery hours in urban core
10. Incorporate roundabouts at appropriate locations to improve overall safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and traffic movement
11. Pedestrian grid for biking & walking connecting to the heritage trail
12. Incorporate “smart car”, i.e., Tesla auto-pilot into long range planning and how it will affect parking and driving
13. Encourage an active community by providing good urban design that allows for connectivity among people and neighborhoods
14. Ensure that sidewalks are included as a part of public improvements associated with new development activity, i.e., complete streets
15. Ensure equity as part of the complete streets concept to ensure that transportation needs are met for all populations (especially the aging and youth, economically disadvantaged, mobility impaired, and minorities), i.e., 8/80 model development
16. Address pedestrian and bicycle safety regionally; affordability as it relates to transportation; Regionalism as it relates to transportation and to also consider rail connections
17. Re-route truck traffic out of downtown (Martin Luther King, Jr./Broadway & residential areas) by using Seventh Street and existing bridge to Eisenhower Parkway
18. Implement and sustain Vision Zero
19. Engage the Planning and Zoning Commission into the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) process
20. Coordinate GDOT’s political action around goals
21. Capitalize on regional air, rail, and cargo opportunities

Housing Goals: Promote an adequate range of diverse, safe, affordable, inclusive, and resource efficient housing in the community.

Objectives:

1. Encourage development of a variety of housing types, sizes, costs, and densities in each neighborhood
2. Institute diversity programs to provide housing for residents of all socio-economic backgrounds
3. Coordinate with local economic development programs to ensure availability of adequate workforce housing in the community
4. Increase density in areas to promote more walking and preserving greenspace
5. Encourage a wide variety of housing types to accommodate a range of income levels for current and future residents.
6. Provide affordable housing for all levels of income within the community, including the homeless, disabled & elderly
7. Promote appropriate infill housing and development through planning, infrastructure placement, and regulations
8. Create neighborhoods when “tiny houses” and “tiny house neighborhoods” are allowed with shared green space/lawn
9. Encourage mixed-use developments
10. Increase the number of affordable housing units (homeowner & rental opportunities)
11. Expand senior housing options to support Macon-Bibb County’s designation as an Age-Friendly community

Economic Development Goals: Encourage development or expansion of businesses and industries that are suitable for the community. Factors to consider when determining suitability include job skills required; long-term sustainability; linkages to other economic activities in the region; impact on the resources of the area; or prospects for creating job opportunities that meet the needs of a diverse local workforce.

Objectives:

1. Focus on existing and small businesses, particularly in the core of Macon – Bibb County
2. Encourage development, expansion and recruitment of businesses and industries
3. Incentivize key corridors in relation to brownfield sites (Old downtown industrial district) to encourage new growth
4. Develop and expand partnerships to attract new industry
5. Nurture/Redevelop existing commercial areas such as Westgate, Eisenhower, Hartley Bridge, Baconsfield, Bibb Mill and downtown sites for revitalized commercial activity
6. Market the community’s assets to support new business development.
7. Develop sites and infrastructure supporting job creation in target business sectors.
8. Retain existing businesses and enable their growth.
9. Support efforts to improve the entrepreneurial climate and small business support system.
10. Establish the Middle Georgia Logistics Council to promote the region as a premier destination for distribution in the Southeast and host an annual Logistics Summit
11. Establish other cluster councils to support target sector development efforts

12. Conduct targeted existing business visits to companies headquartered outside of Macon-Bibb to support retention and expansion of major employers
13. Advance the implementation of critical transportation infrastructure projects that improve the viability and competitiveness of Macon-Bibb as a logistics hub and inland port
14. Invest in site-specific improvements to the community’s industrial parks to increase their attractiveness to prospective new investments
15. Optimize Macon-Bibb’s general economic development marketing, communications, and public relations efforts
16. Form a coalition of Innovation and Entrepreneurship partners to ensure coordination and completeness of efforts to foster new business formation. Through this partnership, improve basic resources for small businesses and more aggressive and innovative improvements to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
17. Pursue joint-use designation for Robins Air Force Base
18. Support the implementation of the Middle Georgia Regional Airport master plan

Revised Education Goal: To make affordable educational and training opportunities readily available for citizens in support of innovation and workforce readiness.

Objectives:

1. Expand and improve local educational institutions or programs
2. Provide access to other institutions in the region
3. Coordinate with local economic development programs to ensure an adequately trained and skilled workforce
4. Include higher education (lifelong learning process and partnering with workforce development)
5. Expanded dual enrollment programs (Central Georgia Technical College)
6. Partnership with Goodwill, and Miller – Mote Technical College
7. Significantly elevate graduation rates from our community’s public schools
8. Prepare secondary and post-secondary students for careers in target business sectors
9. Implement best practice programs that provide student choices and new learning models
10. Engage parents to best support student learning
11. Elevate adult educational attainment levels
12. Establish a Business Education Partnership (BEP) in Macon-Bibb
13. Work with colleges and universities to develop new certificate and degree programs that support target sectors
14. Business Internships – Work with the Great Promise Partnership and all other internship programs to challenge the business community to develop summer internships and apprenticeships that expose high school and college students to career opportunities in target sectors
15. Implement the “Leader in Me” program in all elementary schools in Macon-Bibb
16. Establish and improve community partnerships with our schools
17. Evaluate voucher-based system
18. Research, develop and implement programs to support and improve family engagement in the public schools

Revised Natural and Cultural Resources Goal: Promote sustainable growth while protecting the environment and preserving our cultural resources.

Objectives:

1. Promote energy efficiency and renewable energy generation
2. Encourage green building construction and renovation
3. Utilize appropriate waste management techniques
4. Foster water conservation and reuse
5. Preserve environmentally sensitive areas as green space or conservation reserves
6. Preserve, protect, and celebrate the historic heritage in predominately African American communities (Fort Hill, Pleasant Hill, Bloomfield, Unionville, etc.); Create historic districts for these neighborhoods.
7. Protect these areas from neighborhood or commercial zoning

Chapter 3 | Needs and Opportunities

To achieve Macon–Bibb County’s vision and goals for the future, the comprehensive plan must identify a list of needs and opportunities and provide workable strategies that will be used to address them over a period of five (5) years. A need can be identified as a condition of something that a community requires or wants, while an opportunity is a possibility for progress and improvement. As specified in the State’s Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning, this locally agreed upon list of needs and opportunities will address the future needs of the community, while also creating new opportunities to enhance its quality of life.

Needs and opportunities identified in this chapter, originates from a list, developed during the 2017 and 2022 update, through public involvement workshops, steering committee meetings and a community survey. During these public outreach opportunities, participants were able to engage in S.W.O.T. (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) Analysis exercises to identify community issues and assist in developing strategies for future growth and sustainability. Additionally, the SWOT analysis was designed to identify countywide priorities for the County’s long term (5+ years) and short-term (-5 years) future. The goal was to determine what the perceived needs and opportunities are for each overarching goal. In general, the following two questions were asked:

1. What are the strengths and opportunities? To achieve the goals presented, what assets does the County already have or could have in the near future to help accomplish them?
2. What are the weaknesses and threats? What obstacles stand in the way of taking advantage of these strengths and opportunities that the County should proactively address?

By framing the discussion around each of the questions, participants were able to grasp the comprehensive nature of the needs and opportunities, and how most of the needs and opportunities related to more than one goal. Because each of the needs or opportunities that Macon–Bibb County identifies as high priority from the SWOT analysis, must be (per state planning rules) followed-up with corresponding implementation measures in the community work program of the comprehensive plan. The needs and opportunities serve as the basis for the goals and policies included within the Comprehensive Plan. A list has been compiled to provide an uncensored assessment of the public’s vision of the Community. This list is compiled from “in-person” public involvement workshops. Additional SWOT analysis feedback was capture via the online survey found in the appendix.

Below is a representation of the responses provided by workshop participants when asked to list the strengths of Macon–Bibb County.

STRENGTHS:

• Parks
• Heritage
• Downtown
• Ambiance
• Hospitals
• Leadership
• Restaurants
• Accessibility
• Affordability
• Old buildings

• Cost of living

• Culture & History

• Highways & Byways

• Historical Landmarks

• Structures of streets

• Philanthropic community

• Developers with a vision

• Walkable neighborhoods

• Geographic location***

• Rivers and Natural Resources

• Higher education institutions (Universities)**

• Private financial resources

• Improvement of jobs around airport

• Blight (as a means to provide better housing)

• Business & industry coming to the area

• Infrastructure (streets and past planning efforts)

• Cultural entertainment (Grand Opera House, GA Sports Hall of Fame)

• Abundance of Historic Housing stock

• Resourceful organizations in place (Habitat for Humanity, Macon Housing Authority, etc.)

• Historic Macon’s Educational classes

Below is a representation of the responses provided by workshop participants when asked to list the weaknesses of Macon–Bibb County. WEAKNESSES:

• Jobs

• Crime**

• Apathy

• Roads

• Poverty

• Racism

• Segregation

• Job training

• Family Values

• Resident Apathy

• Income Disparity**

• Potholes in roads

• Perception of Safety

• Negative Perception

• Need better schools****

• Economic Inequality

• Bad roads in the hood

• Poor sidewalks (for safety)

• Lack of Neighborhood Planning

• Abandoned houses and buildings

• Interstates dividing neighborhoods

• Sidewalks uprooting historical areas

• Education needs more improvement

• Poorly planned development (Greenfield)

• Preserve historical areas after reconstruction

• Dangerous Roads (speed/pedestrian crossings)

• Mobility limitations (poor transportation choices)

• Blight/Neighborhood abandonment (commercial & residential)**

• Motivating segments of the population through outreach efforts

• Public transit (need to get rid of cut-away bus/need more bus shelters)

• Outreach to significant segments of the community especially young people involvement

• Poor housing stock

Below is a representation of the responses provided by workshop participants when asked to list the opportunities of Macon–Bibb County. OPPORTUNITIES:

• Airport

• History

• Housing

• Tourism

• Location

• Logistics

• Workforce

• Downtown

• Universities

• Fort Hawkins

• Economic Hub

• Housing stock

• External funding

• Medical Services

• Mercer University

• Leverage the assets

• Highlight Successes

• Job Development

• Local School System

• Tourism in older areas

• Industrial development

• Logistics (Warner Robins)

• Job creation for youth/adults

• Community building projects

• Training for local industry (jobs)

• Atrium Health Navicent Hospital

• Green buildings/solar opportunities

• Movies (Filming in Macon – Bibb)

• Grant funds for neighborhood improvements

• Utilizing community partners to help do the work

• Creation of community plans for neighborhoods

• Dedicated workforce (willing to work for low wages)

• Ocmulgee National Monument becoming National Park

• Wetlands/river/floodplains as a natural resource amenity

• Creation of neighborhood associations throughout the county

• Need to apply for more grant funding for more neighborhood development

• Need more energy efficient housing

• More partnerships

• GICH (Georgia Initiative for Community Housing) Community

• Additional Macon Ambassadors

• Mixed-income neighborhoods

Below is a representation of the responses provided by workshop participants when asked to list the threats of Macon–Bibb County.

THREATS:

• Blight

• Flooding

• Homelessness

• Court System

• Gentrification

• Control Growth

• Income Disparity

• Pedestrian Safety

• High crime rates****

• Loss of population

• Economic Inequality

• Local School System***

• Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC)

• Police protection/Public Safety

• Changes in administration

• Education success of youth

• Not reassessing past plans

• Lack of community planning

• Political representation from leaders

• Inadequate labor force development

• Economic job loss (Brown & Williamson)

• Poorly planned development (Greenfield)

• Job training in vacant downtown buildings/spaces

• Disconnect between Planning and Zoning and the community

• 6,000 historic structures on demolition list
• Absentee landlords
• Real estate racism

The following list represents the final locally agreed upon list of Needs and opportunities the County intends to address during the 2022-2027 planning period. The following needs and opportunities list is organized according to various areas or “elements” identified within the comprehensive plan: population, economic development, natural and cultural resources, community facilities and services, housing, land use, transportation, and intergovernmental coordination.

Priority Needs and Opportunities

Population Macon-Bibb County experienced very little growth from 2010 to 2020 according to the 2020 U.S. Census. Trends suggest that the population for Macon-Bibb County will increase slightly by the year 2050. It is extremely important to be aware of the trends when attempting to understand the community and how to address with the issues that the community is faced with no and in the future. This portion of the Comprehensive Plan will identify population needs and opportunities identified during the public engagement process.

Population Needs:

• There is a need to continue the efforts of providing housing options to attract and accommodate existing and new residents
• There is a need for better paying jobs to retain and attract millennials to Macon – Bibb County
• There is a need for additional and improved recreational activities for the community
• There is a need for the County to develop and encourage a greater “live, work, learn and play” community to retain the young population and attract new population
• There is a need to reduce overall crime
• There is a need to improve economic inequality and income disparity in Macon-Bibb County
• There is a lack of community planning
• There is a need for improved political representation from leaders
• There is a need to expand job training opportunities
• There is a need to improve education success of our youth and reduce drop-out rates

Opportunities:

• The opportunity to attract senior population because of Macon – Bibb County’s designation as an Age-Friendly community
• The opportunity to build on the momentum of Macon-Bibb County Consolidated government
• The opportunity to increase graduation rates
• The opportunity to encourage growth provides an opportunity for the County to attract affluent new residents

• The opportunity to expand water and sewer to attract new businesses and future residents

Economic Development

Needs:

• There is a need for better opportunities for job training
• There is a need for economic equality
• There is a need for job creations for youth and adults
• There is a need for secondary education opportunities for residents of Macon-Bibb County
• There is a need for better wages within the services sector
• There is a need to continue the promotion of Macon-Bibb County’s economic development landscape
• There is a need to continue promoting tourism
• There is a need to establish a business retention and expansion program
• There is a need to create a committee to address redlining and gentrification in each commission district
• There is a need to develop small neighborhood plans to help eliminate blight

Opportunities:

• There is an opportunity for increased revitalization and residential downtown development
• There is an opportunity to continue marketing movie filming industry in Macon-Bibb County
• There is an opportunity to extend runways at the Middle Georgia Regional airport that can provide economic benefits for Macon – Bibb County
• The buildout of I-75 South Industrial Park will aid in the designation of Macon – Bibb County being an economic hub to attract industry
• The County can attract light industrial, distribution, and logistics industries because of its location centrally located within the state
• The County should focus on attracting growth industries and employers that provide high-paying jobs
• There is an opportunity for joint use of Middle Georgia Regional Airport and Warner Robins Air Force Base
• There is an opportunity to expand the Ocmulgee National Monument to become a National Park
• There is an opportunity to train the dedicated workforce of those willing to work for low wages
• There is an opportunity to develop a unified approach to market Macon-Bibb County in the areas of leadership training and technology
• There is an opportunity to develop strategies for utilizing key growth areas of the County, such as the I-16/I-75 corridors

• The Sardis Church Road project provides an opportunity to improve truck traffic to industrial districts near the Middle Georgia Regional airport
• There are opportunities for future development to convert property along water ways for mixed use developments (Eat, Sleep, Shop)

Natural and Cultural Resources

Needs:

• There is a need for regulations to limit development in the water supply watershed areas
• There is a need for floodplain and Ocmulgee River Corridor Protection
• There is a need for wetland protection
• There is a need for scenic view protection
• There is a need for tree protection
• There is a need to protect and promote open space in new developments
• There is a need for development and coordination of nature based recreational resources
• There is a need to protect groundwater recharge areas threaten by development
• There is a need to improve air quality
• There is a need for programs to preserve agricultural and forest land
• There is a need to create historic preservation and design requirements to protect the county’s historic resources
• There is a need for cooperation to address water quality needs

Opportunities:

• Environmental overlay zones may be an opportunity to help protect sensitive natural resources
• SPLOST funding may be opportunity protect and acquire greenspace
• Preserve wetlands/river/floodplain corridors as natural resource amenities
• Expand areas for passive recreation near the river corridor, lakes and streams throughout the county

Housing

Needs:

• There is need to address the insufficient mix of housing sizes, types, and income levels within (most) neighborhoods in our community
• There is a need to continue addressing residential blight
• There is a need to address the lack of special needs housing in the community (disabled, group homes, homelessness, veterans, women’s shelters, etc.)
• There is a need to address the lack of diversity in its housing supply
• There is a need to address senior housing options in order to accommodate elderly residents
• There is a need to continue code enforcement county-wide
• There is a need for quality and affordable housing options

Opportunities:

• Homeowner programs such as maintenance, enhancement, and rehabilitation assistance may help stabilize declining neighborhoods
• Home buyer education programs may increase the rate of home ownership and inform the public about needs such as credit and maintenance, especially in economically depressed areas
• Creation of additional neighborhood associations throughout the county
• Grant funding for neighborhood improvements
• Opportunity to provide a wide range of housing types
• An opportunity to foster redevelopment and infill
• Encourage neo-traditional neighborhoods
• Encourage conservation subdivisions
• Consult the Macon – Bibb County Consolidated Plan and Urban Redevelopment Plan
• Utilize vacant commercial and multi-family buildings to provide housing for the homeless (Macon Housing Authority as a partner)
• Macon-Bibb County can become a GICH (Georgia Initiative for Community Housing) Community
• Research other GICH communities, i.e., Eatonton, Georgia

Land Use Needs:

• There is a need for development or redevelopment along major roadways to be aesthetically pleasing to include landscaping and features that compliments the existing area
• There is a need for residential and commercial to be located where public facilities and infrastructure already exist
• There is a need for gateways into the community to be attractive and welcoming to visitors
• There is a need for compact development to allow for higher density and greater greenspace
• There is a need to control growth pressures along the periphery of the county in an effort to maintain greenspace
• There is a need to create more mixed-uses at appropriate locations
• There is a need to increase mixed uses (such as corner groceries or drugstores) within neighborhoods.
• There is a need for increased and additional public spaces designed for gathering and social interaction.

Opportunities:

• Design guidelines may ensure that new infill development is appropriate and compliments the established character of the community.

• Well-planned, mixed-use nodes of development may allow for greater rural land preservation, while attracting high-end development.
• A checklist for site plan review of proposed developments has expedited the permitting process

Transportation Needs:

• There is considerable need for more infrastructure improvements (sidewalks, roads)
• There is a need to reduce pedestrian fatalities
• There is a need to employ traffic calming measures throughout the community
• There is a need for improved alternative modes of transportation (transit, biking, walking, multi-purpose trails)
• There is a need to link trail network to neighboring communities, i.e., rail-to-trail
• There is a need to link public transportation to major industries
• There is a need for transportation options access to housing, jobs, services, goods, health care and recreation for our senior residents and special needs population
• There is a need for streetscape improvements along corridors and gateways into the community
• There is a need to address traffic congestion along major thoroughfares
• There is a need to improve truck traffic throughout the community

Opportunities:

• There is an opportunity for joint use of runways at Middle Georgia Regional Airport and the WRAFB
• There is an opportunity for joint coordination and improved communication between local, regional and state officials
• There is an opportunity for communication with local committees and advocacy groups (Pedestrian Safety Review Board, Bike Walk Macon)
• There is an opportunity for passenger rail from Macon to Atlanta
• There is an opportunity for the Middle Georgia Regional Airport to contribute to the economic development activities in the County

Community Facilities and Services Needs:

• There is a need for more recreational facilities/parks (particularly for the seniors and the disabled)
• There is a need for more shelters for the homeless/women
• There is a need for improvements to community buildings such as the auditorium, the coliseum/convention center and public libraries
• There is a need for the entire community to be served by public facilities and services, particularly water, sewer services and broadband.
• There is a need for fire department/fire protection expansion throughout the county

• There is a need to expand public spaces and recreational opportunities throughout the County especially multi-use trails
• There is a need for improved recreational venues (football, baseball, softball, basketball, tennis, skating, etc.)
• There is a need to improve stormwater and solid waste management, in addition to emergency management
• There is a need for more police protection/law enforcement resources to address crime, i.e, Macon’s MVP program, Late Night Basketball
• There is a need to provide homeless shelters for men
• There is a need to provide a solution for food deserts
• There is a need to update the solid waste plan
• There is a need to have a Planning and Zoning sponsored program for sustainable recycling
• There is a need to assess the mental health of law enforcement

Opportunities:

• Consult the Macon Water and Sewer Authority’s plan as the provision of water and sewer can help guide the county’s growth

Intergovernmental Coordination Needs:

• There is a need for agreements with surrounding counties in order to manage shared resources and the provision of services of the natural resources and infrastructure that cross county boundaries

Opportunities:

• Increased discussion forums between local governmental agencies, regional commission, Board of Education and various developmental authorities could help assure that new development does not overburden the County school system
• Cooperation between various industrial authorities may provide opportunities for regional economic development projects

In summary, by conducting the S.W.O.T. analysis, survey respondents provided feedback and shared that three (3) main Strengths about Macon-Bibb County are: Downtown, Community, and Location; three (3) main Weaknesses are: Crime, Poverty, and Lack of Community Pride, Affordable, etc.,; three (3) main Opportunities are: Macon, Schools, and Community; and three (3) main Threats are: Crime, Lack of Education, Public Safety, etc., and Blight. There were two (2) additional needs, and one (1) additional opportunity identified in the economic development, needs and opportunities. Many of the needs and opportunities listed, carried over from the 2017 comprehensive plan update.

Chapter 4 | Sociodemographic and Forecasting

This chapter addresses changes in population patterns in Macon-Bibb since the 2017 Macon-Bibb Comprehensive Plan Update. The source data and analyses for this discussion were prepared as part of the Macon Area Transportation Study (MATS) 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (2050 MTP). Based on the observed historic population and employment patterns of the 2010 and 2020 U.S. Census, and the predicted trends through the 2050 plan year, the 2050 MTP also addresses anticipated development scenarios for the Macon-Bibb area.

Due to the unavailability of the 2020 Census results during the development of the 2050 MTP, and the use of the 2015 base year for as per guidance from Georgia Dept. of Transportation, the reference years for the discussion below will either be the 2015 base year or the 2050 planning horizon year, unless specifically otherwise noted.

Historic Population Trends

Figures 4-1 demonstrates the anticipated general countywide population trends in Macon-Bibb, Jones, and Monroe Counties, starting in 1960 and continuing through to the plan year of 2050. The orange and pink columns are projected total population values for each county from the estimates produced by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget (GOPB) for the plan horizon year 2015 (Population Projection 2015 – 2050) or 2020 (Population Projection 2020 – 2065). The estimated population for 2020 (in pink) stands in contrast to the actual population value for 2020 from the decennial U.S. Census (in blue).

For years 2025 through 2050, population values are projected based on the annualized growth rate observed between the 2010 and 2020 U.S. Census.

Figure 4-1: Bibb County Population Trends, 1960 – 2050

⬚ figure

Source: Blue Columns: U.S. Census 1960 through U.S. Census 2020 Orange Column: GA Governor's Office of Planning & Budget County Residential Projections, 2015 - 2050 Pink Column: GA Governor's Office of Planning & Budget

Table 4-1: Total Population, by Race of Bibb County for 2010, 2015 (Estimated) and 2020

Source: U.S. Census 2010 SF 1 Dataset, Table P9: Population-Hispanic or Latino, And Not Hispanic or Latino, By Race

• 2015 marginal populations values will not sum to exact population totals, due to double counting of Hispanic/Latino

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the total population of the Macon-Bibb County area is 157,346. The results of the above chart and table support the following conclusions:

• The population growth in Bibb County was stronger than originally projected. Where Bibb County was anticipated to lose population (GOPB 2020 estimate: 152,549), it actually saw a small, but non-trivial increase from the previous decade (U.S. Census 157,346; +1,799).
• While the majority of population in Macon-Bibb County continues to be either Non-Hispanic White (42.11% in 2010; 36.09% in 2020; -8,707) or African American (51.91% in 2010; 54.17% in 2020; +4,490), the area appears to be reaching a tipping point in becoming more ethnographically diverse.
  • Substantial population increases are evident in the Hispanic/Latino community (2.82% in 2010; 4.28% in 2020; +2,348), the Asian community (1.6% in 2010; 2.04% in 2020; +717), and those persons identifying as belonging to Two or More Races (1.19% in 2010; 2.82% in 2020; +2,602).
  • Without the growth in these communities, the growth in the African American population would not have been able to offset the loss of Non-Hispanic White population.

Base Year Demographic Analyses

This section describes some basic parameters of Macon-Bibb County, using data from the American Community Survey (ACS). Unlike the U.S. Census, the ACS is a sample of a population, rather than a full 100% count. Samples, by definition, contain variability (i.e., mathematically quantified levels of instability) in their estimates. This variability can, in some cases, make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about differences or patterns between population groups (e.g., Counties) and sub-groups (e.g., ethnic groups, or sub-areas vs. Counties as a whole).¹

The source data for the Macon-Bibb County area comes from the 2019 ACS 1-Year Estimate. The use of the 2015 base year corresponds to the modeling framework applied by Georgia Department of Transportation as part of the MATS 2050 MTP Update.

Age Distribution

Figures 4-2 through 4-7 show the distribution of age by gender for Bibb County and the MATS sub-areas for Jones and Monroe County. All age information values are taken from the American Community Survey, Tables B01002 (for County overall values) and Tables B01002B through B01002I (for values associated with individual ethnic groups).

Figure 4-2: Bibb County Median Age Profile, By Race

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In 2019, the median age for Bibb County population overall is 36.5 years old (Men: 34.7; Women 38.0). Comparing the median ages by racial group in Bibb County, it appears that the median age for both men and women in the African American community (Group Overall: 33.5; Men: 30.4; Women 34.9) are all lower than the County overall. The population and Hispanic/Latino communities (Group Overall: 26.6; Men: 23.4; Women 28.2) and for two or more races is substantially lower (Group Overall: 26.0; Men: 22.9; Women 29.1). The Asian population diverges; it skews slightly younger for women in particular (36.3), but slightly older for overall and men (Group: 37.3; Men 39).

These age distributions would support the argument that the population in Macon-Bibb County is in the middle of their prime years for formation family households, with Hispanic and Latino Households and multi-racial households having the most time available.

Household Income

Figure 4-3 shows the median household incomes in Bibb, Jones, and Monroe counties, both overall and by racial sub-groups (where available). All income values are taken from the American Community Survey 2015, Tables B19013 (for County overall values) and Tables B19013B through B19013I (for values associated with individual ethnic groups).

The results show that in Bibb County, African American households continue to have median incomes well below the county as a whole ($31,785 ± $3,498 vs. $42,140 ± $3,768), while Non- Hispanic White ($66,707 ± $9,267) and Asian households ($56,778 ± $50,823) have household incomes substantially higher than the county median. However, the 90% confidence interval for each estimate (represented by the red error bars) indicates which estimates can be said to be statistically significantly different from each other; where bars overlap between two estimates, they cannot be reliably said to be different from each other.

Figure 4-3: Median Household Income (In 2019 Inflation Adjusted Dollars), by MATS Sub Area and Race (Where Available)

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Housing and Household Characteristics

Figures 4-4 and 4-5 show the household and housing stock characteristics for Bibb County, both by housing tenure (owner occupied vs. rental units) and by racial sub-groups. All age information values are taken from the American Community Survey, Tables B25002, B25064, B25077 (for County overall values) and Tables B25003B through B25003I (for values associated with individual ethnic groups).

The data supports the following observations about the general nature of housing tenure in Macon-Bibb for the 2019:

• The median housing value in Macon-Bibb County is $128,000.
• The median gross rents for Macon Bibb County is $857.
• Within Macon-Bibb County, the housing tenure rate overall is roughly 51.05% homeowner and 48.95% renters. However, this general number masks significant variability within different ethnic groups. African American and Hispanic households are more likely to be renters (68.23% and 58.01% renter occupied, respectively) than Non-Hispanic White or Asian (24.92% and 44.39% renter occupied, respectively)

Figure 4-4: Housing Occupancy in Bibb County

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Figure 4-5: Bibb County Housing Tenure, by Race

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Educational Attainment

Table 4-2 and Figure 4-6, respectively, show the level of educational achievement and proportions of the population with limited English speaking capacity. Values are based on data from the American Community Survey, Tables B15003.

Table 4-2: Marginal Percentages of Educational Attainment in 2019 for the Macon-Bibb County Population Age 25 and Over

For the population of Macon-Bibb County age 25 and over, in general:

• 13.07% of all persons had not completed high school;
• 30.59% had a high school degree or equivalent;
• 24.32% had some form of college education, but had not yet completed an undergraduate degree;
• 20.70% had either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree;
• 11.32% had a graduate or professional degree

Overall, the median level of educational attainment is having had some college training, but not yet having completed a degree.

English Proficiency

Figures 4-7 and 4-8 summarize the proportion of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) population in Macon-Bibb. Accurately describing the LEP population is a significant consideration in determining the scope and methods most appropriate to meet the requirements for public participation, as set forth under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 13166, as well as various other State and Federal policies related to transportation, housing, and other public services. The LEP population is defined as those persons who speak English either “Not well” or “Not at all” according to the U.S. Census. Following that definition, the data for figure 4-7 on LEP households for the 2019 Base Year comes from the American Community Survey, Tables C16002.

Under the rules set forth in FTA Circular 4702.1B, if a LEP population of 1,000 persons or 5% of the area population (whichever threshold is lower) exists in a transit service area, then a formal Language Assistance Program (LAP) needs to be established to support the specific LEP population. In Bibb County, although none of the identified language groups meet either the 1,000 person or 5% thresholds, the Spanish speaking population is getting close. The estimated number of Spanish speaking population who spoke English either “Not well” or “Not at all” was 862 in 2015-2019 American Community Survey (i.e., the best information available as of the writing of this report). It is possible that, as a result of the 2020 Census, the 1,000 person threshold may be exceeded. At that point, it may become necessary for additional measures in transportation, as well as a variety of other public services, to make additional outreach efforts to reach out to non-native English speaking groups.

Figure 4-6: Educational Attainment for Population in Macon-Bibb County Age 25 Years and Over

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Figure 4-7: Summary of Non English Speaking Households, by Language Group, in Macon-Bibb County

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Figure 4-8: Summary of Capacity for English among Non-Native English Speaking Population in Macon-Bibb County, by Language Group

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Means of Travel to Work

Figures 4-9 through 4-13 summarize the commuting behavior observed in Macon-Bibb County. For this particular set of parameters, the data come from the American Community Survey 2019 1- Year Estimates for travel modes, and 2015 – 2019 5 Year dataset for travel times. The reason for the discrepancy (as opposed to standardizing on the 1-Year Estimates datasets), is that the tables in travel time parameter did not exist for the 1-Year Estimate dataset. This discrepancy stems from the privacy and minimum data cell size requirements that must be met before the American Community Survey will produce a dataset on a particular topic.

Values for the charts and tables below come from ACS 2019 1 – Year Estimate Tables B08007 (Sex of Workers By Place of Work – State and County Level) Table B08301 (Means of Transportation to Work), and ACS 2015-2019 5 – Year Estimate Tables B08134 (Means of Transportation to Work by Travel Time to Work).

All commute analyses are based on the sample of workers age 16 and older, living within Bibb County.

The data supports the following conclusions for 2019 period:

• 82.88% of persons who work in Bibb County also resided in Bibb County
• The predominant mode for travel to work is single occupancy vehicle (82.73%). Percentages of other modes of travel to work include
  • Carpool – 8.59%;
  • Public Transportation (not including taxicab) – 0.86%
  • Walking – 2.03%
  • Other Travel Modes (Taxis, Motorcycles, Bikes, etc.) – 1.85%
• Working from home accounts for 3.94% of all employment in Bibb County
• In Bibb County, the median commute times (imputed from the distribution of reported travel times by mode) are:
  • Single Occupancy Vehicle – 15.32 minutes
  • Carpool – 15.15 minutes
  • Public Transportation (excluding taxis) – 33.63 minutes
  • Walking – 9.40 minutes
  • Other Travel Modes (Taxis, Motorcycles, Bikes, etc.) – 16.62 minutes

Figure 4-9: Workers By Place of Work – State and County Level

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Bibb County Workers By Place of Work - State and County Level (2019 ACS 1-Year Estimate)

Figure 4-10: Mode of Travel to Work

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Figure 4-11: Distribution of Work Commute Times in Bibb County for Persons Age 16 and Over Who Drove Alone

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Figure 4-12: Distribution of Work Commute Times in Bibb County for Persons Age 16 and Over Who Carpooled

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Figure 4-13: Distribution of Work Commute Times in Bibb County for Persons Age 16 and Over Who Used Public Transportation

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Employment

This section borrows heavily from the recently approved 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan Update, adopted by the Macon Area Transit Study on May 3, 2022. That study, developed in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, used 2015 as the base year for developing forecasts. For that reason, the discussion below uses 2015 as a base year for describing employment.

As of 2015, there were approximately 116,592 jobs in Bibb County. All employment data for the 2015 base year are collected from the National Establishment Time-Series Database, 2019 Release (NETS 2019), produced by Walls & Associates. Table 4-3 summarizes the 2015 employment counts by North American Industrial Classification (NAICS) category (2 digit level). Table 4-4 expands on that discussion listing the largest employers in Bibb County in 2015, by NAICS category, along with the detailed description of what types of goods and/or services that industry provides.

In 2015, Macon-Bibb County was a leader in the provision of health care and higher education. In terms of industrial activities, the predominant activities were related to freight forwarding, aircraft construction and maintenance, and industrial cleaning. As a regional center, Bibb County is also home to regional headquarters of major insurance companies and banks. These trends have continued since 2015.

Figure 4-14 aggregates these jobs according to the categories specified in the Georgia MPO Travel Demand Models Socio-Economic Data Development Guides (2018), prepared by HNTB Corporation and adopted by Georgia Dept. of Transportation (GDOT), and projects those categories out to 2050. The results are based on employment projection factors based on REMI forecasts provided through the Georgia Dept. of Transportation. Specific expansion factors were calculated and applied for each GDOT employment category (Agriculture, Mining & Construction, Manufacturing/Transportation/Communications/Warehousing (Manufacturing & TCUW), Retail, and Services). For additional details on how employment projections were applied, see the MATS 2050 MTP (https://www.maconmpo.com/lrtp/).

Table 4-3: Distribution of Employment by NAICS Category and GDOT Travel Demand Modeling Category, by County, across the MATS Ar

Table 4-4: Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry Group

Table 4-4 (Con’t): Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry Group

• Boeing left Macon-Bibb County in 2015, shortly after the data was reported for this dataset. The reason was the retirement of the Boeing 747 aircraft production line. The Boeing hangar facilities were re-occupied by Dean Baldwin Aircraft Painting in 2021

Table 4-4 (Con’t): Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry Group

Table 4-4 (Con’t): Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry Group

Table 4-4 (Con’t): Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry Group

Table 4-4 (Con’t): Largest Employers in Macon-Bibb County in 2015, Per NAICS Industry Group

Figure 4-14: Employment by GDOT Modeling Category for MATS MPO Consolidated Area and Bibb County (2015 Base Year, and 2050 Projected)

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Growth Projections and Future Land Use

The profile established for the 2050 MTP document establishes the assumptions for anticipated growth patterns through the 2050 plan year. The working assumption is that whatever population and employment growth comes about between 2015 and 2050 will follow similar marginal distributions as the 2010 Census. This assumption will need to be re-examined at each new census, or as new data becomes available, to identify population trends and emerging opportunities or challenges.[^p65-4]

Population Growth and Distribution

Table 4-5 and Map 4-1 show the anticipated future land use for the MATS area and the total acreage in each category. Future land use for the 2050 MTP document was obtained by reviewing the Macon-Bibb County 2040 Future Land Use Plan, the Middle Georgia Regional Commission 2017 Comprehensive Plan for Jones County, and the Middle Georgia Regional Commission 2007 Comprehensive Plan for Monroe County.¹ Middle Georgia Regional Commission conducts comprehensive plan updates for Jones and Monroe Counties based on the schedules specified by Georgia Dept. of Community Affairs and uses a 20-year time horizon for future land use planning. Therefore, the Jones and Monroe County future land use time horizons extend only to 2037. All acreage is calculated as net acres, after removing the street right of way and the 100-year floodplain (i.e., areas not available for construction).

Table 4-5: MATS Area Future Land Use Net Acreage, by County, by Category

Map 4-1: MATS MPO Future Land Use

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The Macon-Bibb County's infrastructure records, drawings, and other documents have been gathered over many years, using differing standards for quality control, documentation, and verification. All of the data provided represents current information in a readily available format. While the data provided is generally believed to be accurate, occasionally it proves to be incorrect; thus its accuracy is not warranted. Prior to making any property purchases or other investments based in full or in part upon the material provided, it is specifically advised that you independently field verify the information contained within our records. Date: 1/20/2022

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Table 4-6: Anticipated Population Growth in Bibb County MATS Area Portions

Table 4-7: Breakdown of Anticipated Population Growth in Bibb County, By Age Group

If the trends observed between the 2010 and 2020 Census continue, by 2050 Bibb County is anticipated to grow to a total population of 162,869 (i.e, +3.51%). Map 4-2 shows where all regional growth in the MATS area is anticipated to be distributed throughout the region. These areas were identified and prioritized through consultation with the Zoning Director for Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning Commission, the Planning Director for Jones County, and field review of the Monroe County portion of the MATS area. The zone numbers represented on the map correspond to specific Transportation Analysis Zones (TAZs), which are the geographic unit used by GDOT to conduct travel demand modeling. TAZs are comprised of Census Blocks, meaning it is possible to calculate housing attributes for TAZs by aggregating the data from the relevant Census Blocks, assuming the data is available at the Census Block level from the U.S. Census.

While the exact calculations for future residential capacities are detailed in Appendix B of the 2050 MTP, the basic process of assigning population was as follows:

• Using the most recent future land use plans available for each county, the amount of new residential acreage available for development was calculated by subtracting acreage already encumbered in 2015 from the future planned acreage.
• The amount of new acreage was multiplied by existing housing densities per acre in 2010 (using U.S. Census 2010 household counts and 2010 encumbered residential acreage), and adjusting for the observed 2010 housing vacancy rate, to estimate the number of new households in each zone.
• The number of new households was then multiplied by the average household size for each TAZ to estimate the amount of new population in each zone. (Note: TAZ level average household size values were based on weighted sums of 2010 Census household information. This is because Census 2010 was the most current available at the required level of geographic detail).
• A running population growth total is calculated so that it may be measured against the anticipated population growth for the MATS region of each county.

The results from the supporting calculations indicate that Macon-Bibb is capable of absorbing all the anticipated population growth within their MATS areas under existing land use plans; Macon-Bibb has capacity for 12,228 new residents, but is only anticipated to receive 5,523 between 2020 and 2050.

Map 4-2: MATS Area Anticipated 2050 Population Growth Distribution, By County

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The Macon-Bibb County's infrastructure records, drawings, and other documents have been gathered over many years, using differing standards for quality control, documentation, and verification. All of the data provided represents current information in a readily available format. While the data provided is generally believed to be accurate, occasionally it proves to be incorrect; thus its accuracy is not warranted. Prior to making any property purchases or other investments based in full or in part upon the material provided, it is specifically advised that you independently field verify the information contained within our records. Date: 1/17/2022

Employment Growth

The results discussed above indicate that Bibb County can expect an employment base of 127,853 jobs by 2050 (an increase of +11,261 over the 2015 base year). Exploring the changes by sector, net job losses are anticipated in the Retail sector (-2,664 jobs), while Service and Manufacturing & TCUW are expected to see significant gains (i.e.,+11,797 jobs and +1,584 jobs, respectively). The increase in Manufacturing & TCUW is particularly important, as these generally correspond with higher skilled/higher value added activities, which tend to have the potential for higher incomes.

Summary

Bibb County is likely to experience moderate population growth through 2050. In particular, if the trends observed between the 2010 and 2020 Census are maintained, the County can anticipate a significant increase of Hispanic/Latino and Asian American population.

Total population increase for the Bibb County area between the 2020 base year and the 2050 plan horizon year is anticipated to be approximately 5,523 residents, and 11,261 new jobs (estimated from the 2015 base year). The land use modeling associated with the MATS 2050 MTP Update would suggest that Bibb County has the ability to absorb that growth with the existing available land, particularly if the County chooses to revitalize and restore existing areas prior to encouraging greenfield development.

Chapter 5 | Land Use

This chapter addresses the existing land uses in Macon-Bibb County, and the proposed land use patterns envisioned for the area through 2050. The starting point for this analysis is the land uses as they existed in May 2017, as classified under the Tax Digest Stratification system, as defined by the Georgia Department of Revenue. The following software packages were used in this analysis:

• ArcGIS 10.7.1 – Geographic information system/geospatial analysis software
• Microsoft Access 2013 – Relational database software, in support of ArcGIS 10.3.1
• Microsoft Excel 2013 – Spreadsheet software

Data Assembly Methods

Both the Existing Land Use and Future Land Use scenarios were assessed using the same core reference file (n = 68,754 unique parcels, excluding street right of ways and alleys). While the parcels already contained Existing Land Use classification data from the Macon-Bibb Tax Assessor's file, initial categories for Future Land Use were identified by matching parcels to the 2040 Future Land Use layer. This was achieved by generating the coordinates for the center of each parcel, then assigning the 2040 Future Land Use category to the centroid using a Spatial Join procedure.

As of this writing, the Existing Land Use discussion remains based on the analysis done for the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Macon-Bibb County Planning & Zoning is awaiting a parcel data update that will allow us to update the Existing Land Use discussion prior to final adoption of the 2050 Comprehensive Plan.

An important distinction between the map and data regarding Existing Land Use and subsequent discussions of the 2050 Future Land Use plan is the difference in classification systems. This difference exists because the two analyses serve different (though related) purposes. As described above, Existing Land Use is based on the classification of individual properties for tax purposes. The goal in the Existing Land Use Analysis is to describe what is currently taking place (or most recently taken place) at the specific location.

In contrast, the discussion of Future Land Use is an aspirational vision for a pattern of development, consistent with the community goals identified in earlier chapters, that has not yet fully emerged. Because of the aspirational nature, Future Land Use is subject to change with each revision to the Comprehensive Plan. For example, the last Comprehensive Plan for Macon-Bibb County (completed in October 2017) used the planning horizon of 2040. Since then, the MATS 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MATS 2050 MTP) has been adopted, in coordination with Georgia Dept. of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, and

Federal Transit Administration. As part of developing the MATS 2050 MTP, a new planning horizon year of 2050 was adopted, which in turn lead to generating a new population and employment forecasts. The MATS 2050 MTP document was originally adopted on May 3, 2022, and amended on June 13, 2022.

For the purpose of coordinating the MATS 2050 MTP, and this Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the subsequent discussions of the Future Land Use plan will focus on the 2050 target year planning horizon.

Existing Land Use

There are approximately 147,438.50 net acres (68,754 parcels) of land within Macon-Bibb County with an identified use. Figure 5-1 below shows the distribution of land uses as recorded in the Macon-Bibb County Tax Assessor’s file on May 17, 2017, and Table 5-1 provides the supporting summary data for each Existing Land Use category. These categories follow the definitions set by the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) and applied by the Macon-Bibb County Tax Assessor. While not all categories in the DOR rubric are represented in the data for Macon-Bibb County, the relevant land use categories are defined below (Source: https://dor.georgia.gov/sites/dor.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/LGS/Property%20Tax%20Digest/Tax%20Digest%20Consolidated%20Summary%20How%20to%20Interpret.pdf, except where otherwise noted):

Residential Classification of all land utilized, or best suited to be utilized as a single family homesite, the residential improvements and other non-residential homesite improvements thereon. Duplexes and triplexes are also classified as residential use.

Commercial Classification of all real and personal property utilized as a business unit the primary nature of which is the exchange of goods and services at either the wholesale or retail level. This category also includes multi-family dwelling units having four or more units.

Historic Up to two acres of land and improvements may receive a reduced preferential assessment if it is a landmark or is historic in nature and has been rehabilitated by the owner. This is the classification for the properties where the owners have been granted this preferential assessment

Industrial Classification of all real and personal property utilized as a business unit the primary nature of which is the manufacture or processing of goods destined for wholesale or retail sale.

Utility Classification of the property of companies which are required to file an ad valorem tax return with the Revenue Commissioner; includes all the real and personal property of railroad companies, railroad equipment car companies, public utility companies and the flight equipment of airlines companies.

Agricultural Classification of all real and personal property utilized, or best suited to be utilized, as a farm unit. Includes the single family homesite which is an integral part of the farm unit, the farm family residence, the non-residential homesite improvements, the non-homesite farm land and the production and storage improvements (barns, silos, etc.). This use classification also includes the personal property owned and used on the farm unit (tractors, livestock, grain, etc.) and the nonfarm use personal property (boats, 4-wheelers, etc.) of the family residing in the farm home. For information on conservation use assessment of agricultural land click here.

Preferential Classification of covenanted agricultural properties. By entering into a ten-year covenant and devoting the property to an agricultural use, the owners may receive a 25% preferential assessment discount on land and improvements put into this program. Note: due to the similarity with Agricultural property defined above, this category has been consolidated with the Agricultural category.

Conservation Use Classification of covenanted agricultural properties. Similar to Preferential, owners of agricultural land and improvements may elect to enter into the conservation use program and have their property valued based on its current use as farmland rather than its prospective use as residential or commercial land. The owner must enter into a ten year covenant and will have their land valued according to a table developed by the State. There are substantial penalties for selling the land for residential or commercial development before the expiration of the ten-year covenant.

Forest Use Classification of covenanted forest properties. The Georgia Forest Land Protection Act of 2008 (O.C.G.A. 48-5-7.7) provides for an ad valorem tax exemption for property primarily used for the good faith subsistence or commercial production of trees, timber, or other wood and wood fiber products and excludes the entire value of any residence located on the property. Forest land conservation use property may include land that has been certified as environmentally sensitive property by the Department of Natural Resources or property that is kept in accordance with a recognized sustainable forestry certification program. The property may have secondary uses such as the promotion, preservation, or management of wildlife habitat; carbon sequestration in accordance with the Georgia Carbon Sequestration Registry; mitigation and conservation banking that results in restoration or conservation of wetlands and other natural resources; or the production and maintenance of ecosystem products and

services such as, but not limited to, clean air and water. (source: https://dor.georgia.gov/table-forest-land-protection-act-land-use-values)

Exempt Property Classification of property totally exempted from ad valorem taxation. This includes non-profit homes for the aged, public property, places of religious worship, property used for charitable purposes, places of religious burial, charity hospitals, educational institutions, etc.

In combination with these land use categories, parcels are further defined in combination with their sub-classification as real property (source: https://dor.georgia.gov/sites/dor.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/LGS/Property%20Tax%2020Digest/Tax%2020Digest%2020Consolidated%2020Summary%2020How%2020to%2020Interpret.pdf):

Improvements Includes all in-ground and above-ground improvements that have been made to the land including leasehold improvements. A leasehold improvement is an improvement made to property being leased from another, for example, the mall leases an empty space to a firm that then adds permanent fixtures, lighting, shelving, counters, facades, etc., giving the space the look and feel of the store they want to open.

Lots Includes all land, usually no more than 5 acres, where the market indicates the site is sold on a front footage or buildable basis rather than by acreage.

Small Tracts Includes all land, usually over 5 acres up to 25 acres, which is normally described and appraised in terms of small acreage, which is of such size as to favor multiple uses.

Large Tracts Includes all land, usually over 25 acres, which is normally described and appraised in terms of large acreage, which is of such size as to limit multiple uses, e.g., cultivatable lands, pasture lands, timber lands, open lands, wastelands and wild lands.

Operating Utility Includes all real and personal property of a public utility, tangible and intangible, utilized in the conduct of usual and ordinary business.

Production/Storage/Auxiliary Includes those improvements to land which are utilized by a farm unit for the storage or processing of agricultural products, e.g., barns and silos.

Analysis of Vacant Land

Of the 147,438.50 acres/68,754 parcels in the existing land use dataset, approximately 67,907.32 acres (46.05% of all acreage) and 13,512 parcels (19.65% of all parcels) are identified as vacant, based on meeting both of the following criteria:

a. The parcel has no structures of any value for tax purposes on it; and

b. The value of the land is the only component of the tax assessment.

In addition to those criteria, the vacant parcels were also evaluated for their accessibility to water and sewer service. According to the Macon Water Authority, a parcel was identified as eligible for water and sewer connection if it fronts along an identified street. Limiting the analysis to those parcels that were within 50 ft. of a roadway other than the Interstate freeway system (including on-ramps), 47,942.52 vacant acres (accounting for 11,648 of the 13,512 vacant parcels) were identified as either having or being eligible to be served by municipal water and sewer connections.

Further reducing the vacant acreage by those categories not readily available for re-development (i.e., precluded from redevelopment by designation as either Preferential, Conservation, Forest Land Projection, or without water and sewer service eligible), the total vacant acreage available for redevelopment drops to 37,887.66 acres (25.70% of all acres) and 11,440 parcels (16.64% of all parcels).

Map 5-1: Distribution of Existing Land Uses in Bibb County (by Georgia Dept. of Revenue Classification), As of 17 May 2017

Existing Land Use (Based on Tax Assessor's Records - 5/17/2017)

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The Macon-Bibb County's Infrastructure records, drawings, and other documents have been gathered over many years, using differing standards for quality control, documentation, and verification. All of the data provided represents current information in a readily available format. While the data provided is generally believed to be accurate, occasionally it proves to be incorrect; thus its accuracy is not warranted. Prior to making any property purchases or other investments based in full or in part upon the material provided, it is specifically advised that you independently field verify the information contained within our records. Date: 8/16/2017

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Table 5-1: Summary of Existing Land Use in Bibb County (by Georgia Dept. of Revenue Classification), As of 17 May 2017

Table 5-2: Summary of Vacant Parcel Acreage in Bibb County, by Existing Land Use (by Georgia Dept. of Revenue Classification) and Water & Sewer Availability, As of 17 May 2017

Future Land Use The specific recommendations regarding how land is anticipated to be used are governed by land use categories. There are eight standard land use categories that are mandated by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs to meet minimum planning requirements. In most cases the land use categories in this plan will provide more detail and go beyond the minimum standards. The images incorporated as examples of each land use category listed below are taken from the 2003 Macon-Bibb County Visual Preference Survey (VPS).

Agricultural/Forestry

Agricultural and forestry land uses are consolidated under the Rural Residential heading, described below.

Residential Residential use of land is usually the most extensive use of land in a community. Residential areas must be designed to accommodate basic human and social functions. Therefore, great care and thought must go into the land use plan for these areas of the community. To achieve this end, this land use category was subdivided into the following subcategories: Rural Residential, Suburban Residential, and Urban Residential.

Rural Residential. This district is meant to preserve the rural character of outlying areas of Bibb County. Homes on large lot subdivisions and agricultural/forestry uses are expected in this district. Public sewer is not anticipated in much of this district. Large lot single family detached homes with one unit per acre are the preferred option in this district. Minor agricultural cultivation is also expected in this category.

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Source: 2003 Macon-Bibb County VPS Results and Recommendations

Suburban Residential. This subcategory predominantly promotes single family detached dwellings in subdivision settings with higher density single family attached or multi-family developments at appropriate locations. Mixed use developments that are predominantly single family in nature but may include attached or multi-family dwellings are also anticipated in this district. The following images below are examples of housing types and development patterns that are believed to be appropriate in this district. Other appropriate housing types are townhouse, condominiums, apartments and senior citizen housing. It is important to note that in Suburban Residential areas, smaller lot developments, cluster developments, and attached/multi-family developments should incorporate substantial park or open space. Where appropriate, mixed use developments which contain small scale commercial or office in

addition to residential uses may be allowed. Small scale office developments may be located at appropriate locations to serve a small market area in nearby neighborhoods.

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Source: Macon-Bibb County VPS Results and Recommendations

Urban Residential. Traditional urban neighborhoods may contain such residential uses as single family houses, single family attached and multi-family developments along with nearby small scaled neighborhood convenience retail and services that are intended to serve the need of the immediately surrounding neighborhood. The images below are considered representative of the urban residential category.

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Source: 2003 Macon-Bibb County VPS Results and Recommendations

The images represent visually attractive development characteristics with integrated features including two to three story masonry buildings, ground floors raised above grade, pedestrian realm amenities including a semi-public edge between the sidewalk and the front yard, narrow setbacks, no garages on the front façade, (parking in rear or off and alley), defined individual

entrances, on street parking and street trees. Developments higher in density than in rural or suburban subcategories should be expected in this classification. Office conversions in single family residences may be suitable along major thoroughfares where appropriate in this classification. Scale, compatibility and protection of residential and historic properties are keys issues in the appropriateness of use.

Commercial This category is for land dedicated to nonindustrial business uses, including retail sales, office, service and entertainment facilities, organized into general categories of intensities. Commercial uses may be located as a single use in one building or grouped together in a shopping center or office building. In this plan, the Commercial Category is further divided into two subcategories.

• Community Commercial – Retail sales, office and service uses with the largest establishments being intended to serve regional needs (i.e., large retailers and services whose intended market may exceed the population of the Macon-Bibb County area).
• Neighborhood Commercial – Retail sales, office and services uses whose target market is most likely to be constrained to the immediate surrounding residential areas. This category of commercial is intended to co-exist near Urban Residential or Mixed Use areas.

Office/Service Various types of professional, corporate and administrative office establishments including standalone offices and multi-tenant establishments are appropriate in this classification. This district may also include office/warehouse or service centers were deemed appropriate.

Mixed Use Mixed Use defined here as areas where two or more different land uses are anticipated to co-exist on the same site in such a way that simultaneous operation a.) is not inconsistent with the health, safety and welfare of the immediate area or surrounding community; and b.) the proximity of these uses may result in agglomeration benefits such as reduced neighborhood and regional network traffic, mutual promotion of complementary economic activities, and/or enhanced opportunities for social interaction. It is anticipated that specific combination and proportions of uses and activities to be allowed at any individual location will be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Industrial This category encourages land use activities and development ranging from light to heavy manufacturing along with wholesale and warehouse operations. Light manufacturing does not generally require extensive loading and unloading of goods or outside storage. Normally the effects of the industrial operation are not detectable beyond the boundaries of the property. Heavy manufacturing will contain most of the fabrication, processing, storage and assembly operations in the community. Areas designated for heavy manufacturing may generate noise, odors, and smoke that are detectable beyond the boundaries of the property. An office/warehouse center with limited retail is also appropriate in this district.

Public/Institutional The institutional category used here includes properties classified as public and quasi-public uses, such as government buildings, places of worship, cemeteries, schools, fraternal organizations and museums.

Transportation/Communications/Utilities This land use category includes properties used for transportation, communications and utility uses, such as streets and highways, power generation plants, railroad facilities, radio towers, public transit stations, telephone switching stations, airports, port facilities or other similar uses. In this plan, transportation routes are not included as a land use category, since all calculations and maps are based on net acreage (i.e., removing road and rail right of ways, and river flows).

Parks/Recreation/Open Space This category is for land dedicated to parks, passive open space and recreational centers that are owned by and accessible to the public (including land that has been designated for preservation under the Georgia Greenspace program). Land that is privately held with uses such as golf course, country clubs and athletic facilities that are operated on a member-only basis by clubs or non-profit organizations is also covered by this classification.

Finally, in addition to the above categories, all parcels were analyzed for whether or not they were completely excluded, completely included, or partially intruded upon the 100 year flood plain as identified by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The version of FEMA 100 year flood plain zones used in this analysis are from May 2017.

Table 5-3 summarizes the entire acreage of Macon-Bibb County by anticipated 2050 Future Land Use category. Aside from a minor discrepancy in total acreage due to rounding errors associated with splitting for those parcels which have multiple future land uses on the same parcel (usually associated with large parcels which already have more than one zoning designation, or parcels which cross a right of way), the total acreage in listed in Table 5- 3 is identical to the total acreage listed in Table 5- 1 under the 2017 Existing Land Use Analysis.

Table 5- 3: Summary of 2050 Future Land Use Acres, By Category, for Macon-Bibb County

Map 5-2: Updated 2050 Future Land Use Map for Macon-Bibb County

2050 Future Land Use (With Flood Zones)

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The Macon-Bibb County's Infrastructure records, drawings, and other documents have been gathered over many years, using differing standards for quality control, documentation, and verification. All of the data provided represents current information in a readily available format. While the data provided is generally believed to be accurate, occasionally it proves to be incorrect; thus its accuracy is not warranted. Prior to making any property purchases or other investments based in full or in part upon the material provided, it is specifically advised that you independently field verify the information contained within our records. Date: 8/5/2022

While Table 5-3 summarizes the 2050 Future Land Use vision, it is important to understand how and where the plan for 2050 changes from the 2040 plan. Table 5-4 summarizes the changes in total acreage of future land use categories, while Figure 5-4 shows where those categorical changes were applied.

Table 5-4: Change to 2050 Future Land Use

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The changes represent a growing interest in the Macon-Bibb community towards the promotion of Mixed Use development. The change is significant for the shift in mindset it represents in planning for the areas. Where traditional land use planning emphasizes the separation of incompatible uses (for the preservation and enhancement of the general public safety and welfare by minimizing nuisances), the emphasis in mixed use is on the combination of compatible and complementary uses in the same area. The former approach is restrictive; the latter, by definition, is more open to Innovative approaches.

Map 5-3: Changes in Macon-Bibb County Future Land Use Designations from 2040 to 2050 Planning Horizon Year

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The Macon-Bibb County's Infrastructure records, drawings, and other documents have been gathered over many years, using differing standards for quality control, documentation, and verification. All of the data provided represents current information in a readily available format. While the data provided is generally believed to be accurate, occasionally it proves to be incorrect, thus its accuracy is not warranted. Prior to making any property purchases or other investments based in full or in part upon the material provided, it is specifically advised that you independently field verify the information contained within our records. Date: 8/5/2022

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Five areas in particular stand out as opportunities for promotion of mixed use development:

• Revitalization of the Eisenhower Presidential Mall (Commission District 9) – In recent years, this facility has seen several retail anchor tenants either relocate to the North Macon area around Bass Rd., or leave the Macon-Bibb area entirely. This mall sits in between two major East/West corridors (i.e., U.S. Highway 80 on the South, and Georgia State Route 74 on the North
• Reimagining of the East Macon and Fort Hill Neighborhoods (Commission District 2) – These areas were identified as potential areas for servicing tourists, in anticipation of a forthcoming designation of the Ocmulgee Heritage Mounds as a National Park.
• Expansion of the CBD area South of Broadway, down to Eisenhower Parkway (Commission District 2) – This area currently exists as heavy industrial area, some of which has been abandoned or is underutilized. The development trend observed further north along the 7th St. corridor, along 2nd St. at Hawthorne, and with the gradual expansion of downtown, suggests that this area should be prepared to accept additional growth as well. However, pre-existing limiting factors such as the aforementioned heavy industry, and the continued operations of the Norfolk Southern Brosnan Yard facility constrain what specific uses might be compatible with the area.
• North side of Vineville Ave., from Pio Nono Ave to Forsyth Ave/Hardeman Ave. Split (Commission District 5) – This area is home to several architecturally significant homes, many of which are listed on various historic registries. It is also on a designated highway (U.S. Highway 41). Designation of the area as having a potential for mixed use development broadens the options for what these facilities can be used for in the future, which increases the likelihood that the building can continue to be used (and re-used) creatively. Note that eligibility for being considered mixed use does not relieve any future applications for rezoning or conditional use from any requirements for historic preservation.
• Fulton Mill Rd/Ivey Dr./U.S. Highway 80 (Commission District 6) – This area is adjacent to Middle Georgia State University (MGSU). The identification of the area for Mixed Use is consistent with what staff has observed for the area already; applications have been made for the region South of U.S. Highway 80 for mixed use developments in support of a larger enrollment at MGSU.

Chapter 6 | Housing

The housing element provides local governments the opportunity to inventory and evaluate the adequacy and suitability of the existing housing stock in terms of condition, occupancy and affordability to serve the current and future community needs. Affordable housing is inclusive of several factors such as personal income, construction costs, maintenance costs, water, property taxes and insurance, repairs, heating & air, and location. The cost of housing and the availability of housing for all segments of the population are perspectives that county leaders and housing agencies should evaluate to address affordable housing. Realizing that providing housing for a diverse population is one of the major challenges facing communities, community leaders are continuously striving to create a place where citizens can live, work, learn and play. This is the reason why there is an enormous need for housing that is affordable for all segments of the population. Population tends to have the greatest impact on the conclusions that will be reached on the needs of housing in Macon-Bibb County as a whole in the years to come. While the population changes of the past and future are important indicators of the future needs of housing, in addition to housing conditions, equal attention must be given to issues such as existing age and cost. This chapter will attempt to inventory current housing stock & conditions, determine future housing needs, identify housing problems, and develop a plan for managing housing development in the future. In order to ensure that every resident has a safe, affordable, and decent place to live within the Macon-Bibb Community, housing strategies that promote coordination of housing policies and programs at the local, state, and federal levels must be in place to achieve a socio-economically diverse community.

Under the minimum standards and procedures for local comprehensive planning, (Rules of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs), Chapter 110-12-1-.03, Section (9), as an entitlement community that receives funding for housing from Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the housing element is required for the Macon-Bibb County comprehensive plan. These federal funding sources provide grants to localities that communities use – often in partnership with local nonprofit groups – to fund activities including building, buying, and/or rehabilitating affordable housing for rent or homeownership or providing direct rental assistance to low-income people. The CDBG and HOME programs are administered through Macon-Bibb County’s Economic and Community Development Department (ECDD). The Macon-Bibb County Housing Authority is also a housing service provider in addressing housing needs within the community.

As permitted under the planning regulations, the Macon-Bibb County Consolidated Plan for program years 2020 – 2024 is incorporated by reference as a substitute for the required housing element. It is believed that the comprehensive plan update is consistent with the goals, objectives, and strategies of the Consolidated Plan. As part of

this chapter, there are three types of housing needs that will be addressed: multi-family housing; affordable housing; and special needs housing.

The following tables provide supplemental information on housing in Macon-Bibb County from the US Census Bureau’s American Communities Survey (ACS) data.

Housing Occupancy Macon-Bibb County has a relatively low number of vacant housing units (11,984) at a rate of (17.1%). The Macon-Bibb County Consolidated Plan seeks to address the vacancy concerns for the community.

Table 6-1: Housing Occupancy Rate, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020: American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

Housing Stock (Mix) Maintaining a mix of housing types is one of the most important housing strategies. It helps to ensure a socially and economically diverse community by providing viable housing options for residents from the full spectrum of personal preference and economic buying power. Macon-Bibb County’s housing stock is largely comprised of 1-unit single-family detached housing units. As shown in the housing table below, single-family detached housing units makes up roughly 65.3% of the housing stock covering the entire community of Macon-Bibb County.

Table 6-2: Housing Stock (Mix), 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020: American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

Housing Age and Condition The age of housing is an important indicator of the quality of housing stock and its condition. The age of Macon-Bibb’s housing stock reflects the area’s early development throughout much of the urbanized areas of the community. However, since the great recession and the national housing freeze that spanned a timeframe from 2007 – 2009 ended, the housing market slowly began to progress in a positive direction allowing for new construction and permitting.

As indicated in the chart below, a large percentage (15.8%) of the housing stock was built during 1970–1979. Homes that are more than 30 years old are generally at the greatest risk of being substandard and/or subject to deterioration associated with improper maintenance and repair. The highest rehabilitation need usually occurs in communities with a concentration of the following characteristics: an older housing stock; non-subsidized rental housing; and low-income households. All of these characteristics could apply to Macon-Bibb County. Table 6-3 also indicates that 42.5% of the housing units in Macon-Bibb County were constructed between 1980 and 2014 (or later.)

Table 6-3: Housing Age and Condition, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020: American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

Housing Tenure: Owner and Renter Occupied

In Macon-Bibb County, 51.7 percent of all households are owner occupied, which is slightly higher than the 48.3 percent of renter occupied household units. As housing permits continue to rise in Macon-Bibb County, ownership rates are presumed to increase as well. To increase homeownership rates, Macon-Bibb County will continue its efforts to increase lender participation in homeownership assistance programs and market various homeownership programs.

Table 6-4 Housing Tenure: Owner and Renter Occupied, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020: American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

Figure 6-1: Trends in Household Tenure by Ethnic Group, 2010 – 2015

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Source: ACS 1 Year Estimate, 2010-2015: Table B25003

Housing Cost The cost of housing countywide, both owner-occupied and renter-occupied, has increased steadily over the years. Based on the 2020 5-year estimate data, the majority of homes that are purchased in Macon-Bibb County, range in price between $50,000 - $99,999 which is roughly 26.5% of the owner-occupied market. The next largest homeowners market price range between $100,000 - $149,999 or 23%. If housing prices continue to increase faster than incomes, an increasing percentage of Macon-Bibb County residents will find housing costs unaffordable.

Table 6-5: Housing Cost, 2020 ACS 5-Year Estimates Data Profile

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020: American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates

Macon-Bibb County Consolidated Plan (Housing Component)

The overall goal of the Macon-Bibb County Consolidated Government (M-BC) is to develop a viable urban community through the provision of decent housing, a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities principally for low- and moderate-income individuals.

• Decent housing includes assisting homeless persons to obtain appropriate housing and assisting persons at risk of becoming homeless; retention of the affordable housing stock; and increasing the availability of permanent housing in standard condition and affordable cost to low-income and moderate income families, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. Decent housing also includes increasing the supply of supportive housing which combines structural features and services needed to enable persons with special needs, including persons with HIV/AIDS

and their families, to live with dignity and independence; and providing affordable housing to low-income persons and access to job opportunities.

• A suitable living environment includes improving the safety and livability of neighborhoods, increasing access to quality public and private facilities and services; reducing the isolation of income groups within a community or geographical area through the spatial de-concentration of housing opportunities for persons of lower income and the revitalization of deteriorating or deteriorated neighborhoods; restoring and preserving properties of special historical, architectural, or aesthetic value; and conservation of energy resources.

• Expanded economic opportunities includes job creation and retention; establishment, stabilization, and expansion of small businesses (including microbusinesses); the provision of public services concerned with employment; the provision of jobs involved in carrying out activities under programs covered by this plan to low-income persons living in areas affected by these programs and activities; availability of mortgage financing for low-income persons at reasonable rates using nondiscriminatory lending practices; access to capital and credit for development activities that promote the long term economic and social viability of the community; and empowerment and self-sufficiency opportunities for low-income persons to reduce generational poverty in federally-assisted and public housing.

ECDD addresses housing challenges as required by Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with the preparation and submission of a Consolidated Plan, which is developed through broad stakeholder input. The priority housing objectives as outlined in the ECDD 4 – year consolidated plan for Macon – Bibb County are:

1. Objective Category 1: Create a Suitable living Environment a. Objective: Assist in the stabilization of deteriorating neighborhoods i. Outcome: (Sustainability) Construct or repair 1 park and/or recreational facility, senior, handicapped, youth or neighborhood center, shelter for the homeless or childcare center, or infrastructure improvements on streets, sidewalks, and water, sewer, flood and drainage systems. (PubFac, Acquisitions & Infrastructure) b. Objective: Increase services for low- and moderate-income individuals

and individuals with special needs i. Outcome: (Affordability) Provide mentoring and life-skills training for 50 children in low-moderate-income homes, provide 260 car seats to children in low-moderate-income families (Mentors Project, FAM) ii. Outcome: (Accessibility) Provide services to 125 victims of domestic violence, provide counseling services to 140 low – moderate income families residing in public housing, (Crisis Line, FCC) c. Objective: Increase services for the homeless and potentially homeless population i. Outcome: (Affordability) Provide daily basic services to 275 homeless persons, provide basic dental care for 25 homeless individuals, and provide homeless prevention and rapid rehousing services to 108 individuals. (Loaves & Fishes, EOC-Dental, FAM & EOC-HESG)

2. Objective Category 2: Decent Housing a. Objective: Increase the number of affordable housing units (homeowner & rental opportunities) i. Outcome: (Affordability) Developers and/or nonprofits build 3 units of housing for sale or rent to low- and moderate-income individuals. (Dev Proj, CHDO) ii. Outcome: (Accessibility) Provide housing counseling assistance to approximately 100 low-and-moderate-income individuals. (HomeFirst) b. Objective: Homeowner rehabilitation assistance for low- and moderate-income individuals i. Outcome: (Affordability) Provide 91 minor home repairs to low- and moderate-income elderly/disabled homeowners through various nonprofits. (RM-MHR, RM-VY) ii. Outcome: (Affordability) Provide 60 minor home repairs to low- and moderate-income homeowners through ECDD programs. (HIP)

3. Objective Category 3: Economic Opportunity a. Objective: Improve the economic health of the community and/or individuals i. Outcome: (Affordability) Make 1 small business marketing grant to local businesses that qualify as a micro-enterprise. (SBDAP)

These objectives are highly reflected within this 2022 update to the Comprehensive Plan for Macon – Bibb County. These needs include the following:

1. Increased affording housing opportunities

2. Standardization of current housing stock
3. Increase homeownership of low and moderate income households through first time homebuyer assistance, new construction, and housing rehabilitation, along with homeownership counseling
4. Reduction in homelessness
5. Rehabilitate and preserve safe, affordable rental housing
6. Reduction in blighted residential properties
7. Improved housing options (seniors, elderly, disabled)

Please see Consolidated Plan for Macon-Bibb County Program Years 2020-2024 with specific attention to the section beginning with the Housing Needs Assessment. The housing needs assessment provides specific attention to public housing needs, housing for the homeless needs, and housing for the special needs population begins on page 16 of the 2020-2024 consolidated plan.

The County has taken steps in addressing blight, homelessness, and other special housing needs. The objectives cited in the county's consolidated plan are to prevent homelessness by aiding precariously housed households and provide emergency assistance and shelter. Transition and permanent housing are supported by the County, and it is important that the County construct or launch new transitional and permanent housing programs in combination with preventive efforts. The County rely heavily on nonprofits to carry out many activities associated with the homeless and special needs population since funding is very limited. Many of these services must be coordinated through the hospitals, jails, and mental health facilities since many of these individuals are being released and mainstreamed back into society with little to no support system and very limited resources. This makes it challenging and very important that leaders develop a strategy to provide for the immediate and long term needs of these individuals so that they can go on to lead productive lives.

Chapter 7 | Community Work Program

The Community Work Program Element presents specific measurable action items over the next five years with the broad goal of improving the quality of live in the community. This element addresses the Community Goals that were discussed earlier. The information below describes the projects, funding sources, costs, and status for each assigned department according to the Community Goals.

1. Transportation Goals: Prioritize safe mobility and address transportation needs for all community residents.

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2. Land Use Goal: Maximize the use of existing infrastructure ensuring the most desirable and efficient use of land.

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3. Economic Development Goal: Attract and Support Growth of Sustainable Business & Industry

4. Housing Goal: Increase Access to Quality Diverse Housing

5. Natural and Cultural Resources Goal: Promote Sustainable Growth While Protecting the Environment and Preserving Our Cultural Resources

6. Education Goal: To Make Affordable Educational and Training Opportunities Readily Available for Citizens in Support of Innovation and Workforce Readiness

7. Community Facilities and Services Goal: Provide Sound Community Facilities and Services that Support Growth and Development Patters

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Community Facilities

Community Facilities Community Facilities are an important asset to Macon – Bibb County. Community facilities are public funded infrastructure that contributes to the quality of life and economic viability of the county. Community facilities include water, wastewater, and stormwater facilities, public safety, recreation, schools, health care, and roads.

Cost and Funding of Community Facilities

Community facilities are a significant budget item for any municipality. The cost of services and infrastructure such as fire departments, law enforcement, water and sewer can be substantial. The development patterns in a community affect the cost of installing, maintaining, and operating quality community facilities. Community decisions about development patterns can raise or lower the cost of these services. These choices have significant implications for municipal budgets.

Cost of Community Facilities

In 2020, the property taxes accounted for 48% of Macon-Bibb County’s General Fund revenue. Smart Growth America, a nonprofit organization, has conducted research which demonstrates that, in general smart growth development saves approximately 38% in upfront infrastructure costs compared to conventional suburban development. This also saves 10% on ongoing public service costs and produces far more property tax revenue on a per acre basis.

Macon Bibb County asked Smart Growth America to analyze the net fiscal impact of future growth focused on downtown infill versus continued greenfield development in suburban locations. The purpose of the analysis was to illustrate the range of possible fiscal impacts associated with new development, depending on whether it is more or less compact, and whether it occurs on greenfield sites (needing new infrastructure) or in locations within or proximate to existing development (utilizing existing infrastructure).

The analysis found that the combined net fiscal impact that can be expected for high density downtown infill is substantially greater than low density greenfield development. This is due to three main factors: higher density developments tend to generate fewer public school students; higher density developments require less public infrastructure – particularly downtown infill, which not only requires less infrastructure, but can largely rely on existing infrastructure; and, new downtown infill commands higher values on a per square foot basis due to high market demand for walkable mixed-use environments. The results of the analysis are more dramatic on a per acre basis. The downtown infill scenarios generate a positive net fiscal impact per acre that is 4.6 to 6.9 times higher than the same development located on a suburban greenfield.¹

Funding Community Facilities

In Macon-Bibb County, the special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) serves as a significant funding source for community facilities. The SPLOST is an optional 1% sales tax levied by the county for the purpose of funding the building of parks, schools, roads,

https://smartgrowthamerica.org/resources/the-fiscal-implications-macon-ga/

and other community facilities. The revenue generated may not be used for operating expenses or most maintenance projects. Georgia law allows municipalities complete discretion over the types of projects selected for SPLOST funding.

A separate education special purpose local option sales tax (ESPLOST) is used to fund capital outlays for the Bibb County School District. The Macon Water Authority issues bonds to help fund capital improvements to the county’s water and wastewater infrastructure. Though the Georgia Development Impact Fee Act allows local governments to charge new development for a portion of the additional community facilities needed to serve it, Macon-Bibb County does not charge impact fees.

Water and Wastewater

The Macon Water Authority (MWA) provides public water and sewer services to Macon-Bibb County and portions of Monroe and Jones counties. The MWA has a production capacity of 60 million gallons per day (MGD) and is designed to equip an expansion to 90 MGD. Macon-Bibb County is supplied with water by the Javors Lucas Lake Reservation, but water can also be withdrawn directly from the Ocmulgee River. Javors Lucas Lake is around 589 acres in size and can hold approximately 5.8 billion gallons at full level. There is approximately 36.9 million gallons of water currently stored by the MWA in Javors Lucas Lake prior to entering the treatment and distribution system. The MWA water distribution system has 1,664 miles of transmission mains and service lines serving approximately 51,000 accounts or 155,000 customers.

The MWA also operates a sewage collection system, which includes approximately 250 miles of interceptor lines and 977 miles of sanitary sewer lines, serving over 45,000 customers. The MWA uses approximately 70% of its sewage treatment capacity at its Lower Poplar and Rocky Creek wastewater treatment plants. Macon Soils, a subsidiary of the MWA, handles the recycling of biosolids from wastewater treatment at the MWA’s water reclamation facilities, distributing these by-products to area farmers for agricultural purposes.

The MWA issued approximately $30 million of bonds in 2020. These funds were used to cover the cost of refunding and redeeming the MWA’s outstanding revenue bonds. Macon-Bibb County has the resources to meet future water demands. The MWA has available capacity to accommodate twice its current production volume. Currently, the average daily demand for drinking water is approximately 24 million gallons per day (MGD). The MWA has a production capacity of more than twice that which is 60 MGD. Furthermore, there is infrastructure in place to expand the amount to 90 if needed in the future. In addition, the two wastewater treatment facilities have a combined capacity that is twice of the current demand that exists. In 2018, the MWA invested $40,000,000 towards the rehabilitation of both wastewater facilities. Finally, the MWA provides a great water system at some of the lowest rates in the region.¹

Public Safety

A safe community increases the quality of life for all of the county’s residents and encourages both social and economic investment in our neighborhoods and business districts. The SPLOST that was approved in 2018 includes $24 million for public safety through 2027.

Fire Protection

The Macon-Bibb Fire Department has been fighting fires and protecting life and property in the county for 130 years. The Fire Department’s $29.3 million (FY 2022) annual budget funds over 400 personnel stationed at 21 fire stations. The Fire Department, which is recognized by the Insurance Services Office as a Class 1 Fire Department, responds to an average of 13,000 emergency calls each year. The Fire Department has started construction on a new training facility which will replace the original facility that was built over 30 years ago. Most of the funding for the construction will come from SPLOST funds and the remainder will come from the general fund of Macon-Bibb Co.

Crime Prevention

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and the Macon Police Department merged in 2014 to form the current Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. The annual budget for the Sheriff’s Department was $51.4 million in FY 2022. In addition, funding from the SPLOST has been set aside to fund improvements in the Law Enforcement Center. The Sheriff’s Office consists of four separate division. These divisions are Support Operations, Special Operation, Law Enforcement and Administration. In addition to keeping the county’s streets and neighborhoods safe, the Sheriff’s Office operates the Bibb County Corrections Unit, which currently houses over 900 inmates, and the 192 bed Detention Center, which is a work release and community service center. Both facilities are in downtown Macon.

Stormwater Management

Stormwater runoff is generated from rain that flows over impervious surfaces like paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops. The runoff picks up pollutants that can harm our rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands. To protect these resources, communities, construction companies, industries, and others, use stormwater controls, known as best management practices (BMPs). These BMPs filter out pollutants and prevent pollution by controlling it at its source.

Macon Water Authority took over the administration of the Stormwater Management Program from the Engineering Department in 2021. The MWA has the required knowledge and staff to include stormwater services to its list of duties as a water and sewer agency. They are also devoted to protecting water quality and guaranteeing compliance to stormwater regulations. The MWA has the responsibility of operating,

maintaining, and improving the stormwater system. The SPLOST will provide funding for stormwater management in the amount of approximately $25 million which has already been earmarked.¹

Parks and Recreation

There are 128 county owned parks and recreation areas in the county, several of which have been significantly upgraded in the past five years. Both Amerson Waterworks Park and Central City Park have received multi-million dollar upgrades; the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail has a new section of trail originating from the North Overlook. The future goal is to construct a network of trails into downtown Macon and including surrounding neighborhoods. Currently there are about $40 million of proposed trail projects that have been planned. In 2021, a new Community Center in Pleasant Hill was opened and renovations to the South Bibb Community Center were completed the previous year. In addition to county owned recreation facilities, recreation opportunities are available on federally owned lands including the Ocmulgee National Monument and the Bond Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, which includes the popular hiking trails on Brown’s Mount.

The Parks and Beautification Department provides services for all passive parks, cemeteries, and downtown corridors. This department provides maintenance to more than 75 parks and green space including over 5 miles of paved trails. In addition, four historical cemeteries are included in the operations and the maintenance of the downtown streetscapes. Also, this department provides forestry services including trees and forestry canopy maintenance. The maintenance of all flowers and shrubs in all parks and facilities is included and management of beautification projects in public areas.²

Solid Waste Management

Every day an average of 8.6 pounds of municipal solid waste is disposed of for every man, woman, and child in Macon-Bibb County. However, the county’s landfill on Walker Road closed in December of 2021 because it had reached capacity. The Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) provided funding in the amount of $10 million to close the Walker Road Landfill. The county has opened its first of several Convenience Centers to the public for solid waste disposal which is located on 11th Street. The County plans to open four additional Convenience Centers in the future.

Health Care Access

Health care access requires financial coverage and access to providers. Lack of health insurance has a profound negative effect on access to health care. Those without insurance are less likely to have regular medical care and are more likely to go without care. According to Census Data, 21% of adults in the county do not have access to health

insurance coverage compared to 14% in Georgia and 14% in the U.S.

Residents must also have access to healthcare facilities and providers and the amount of those in a community is an indicator of the adequacy of health services available. Improving health care services depends in part on ensuring that people have a usual and ongoing source of care. People with a usual source of care have better health outcomes and fewer disparities and costs. Having a primary care provider (PCP) as the usual source of care is especially important.

Public Schools The Bibb County School District serves approximately 22,000 students in its twenty-one elementary, six middle and six high schools. The district employs approximately 3,300 full time employees. In addition, there are two charter schools and two specialty schools in Bibb County.

In 2019, the fifth education special purpose local option sales tax (ESPLOST) was approved for the Bibb County School District. The renewal of the 1% sales tax will allow the Bibb County School District to fund capital improvement projects at District facilities throughout the county. The ESPLOST is projected to generate approximately $150 million in revenue for the school system over the next five years. Many of the projects will improve facilities and services and provide state of the art technology devices that are needed.¹

Public Libraries Public libraries provide learning and information resources for individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. In their role as community anchor institutions, they create opportunities for people of all ages through access to collections and technology. Macon’s first lending library was established in 1836. The county is now served by the Middle Georgia Regional Library system which covers a six county area and contains fifteen branch libraries and a book mobile. There are currently six libraries in Macon-Bibb County which include the central library at Washington Memorial Library. The budget for the six libraries in Macon Bibb County was $2.86 million in 2021. Also in 2021, there were 61,632 library card holders and 275,206 print books borrowed in Macon Bibb County. There was a total of 190,221 patron visits in 2021 to the libraries in Macon Bibb County.²

Conclusion It is important that community facilities meet the education, recreation, cultural, health care and related needs of all residents. The optimal use of facilities should be achieved while minimizing the impact to neighborhoods resulting from the operation and expansion of community facilities. The community facilities in Macon-Bibb County contribute to the quality of life and economic viability of the area. The cost of developing and maintaining high quality facilities requires significant, on-going public investment.

REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS FOR THE COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM

The lists below describe the completed activities for each Community Work Program/Capital Improvement Element between FY 2017-2022 and FY 2022-2027, as they relate to the original goals expressed in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update (as opposed to the Revised Goals described in Chapter 2). The Community Work Programs/Capital Improvement Element reports were filed annually on behalf of Macon-Bibb County with the Middle Georgia Regional Commission and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. For FY 2017-2022 through FY 2021-2026, only those activities that were clearly identified as having been completed were listed. In the case of the FY 2022-2027 Community Work Program, additional projects were included that have not yet been completed but are ongoing and anticipated to be completed before the end of FY 2027.

On October 19, 2021, Macon-Bibb County formally repealed all Development Impact Fees within its jurisdiction (Macon-Bibb Ordinance O-21-0083). This action was taken at the recommendation of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. It is understood that the repeal of the Development Impact Fee relieves Macon-Bibb County of future annual reporting requirements. The next Community Work Program Update will be completed in 2027, and it will be accompanied by a report of accomplishments for the 2022-2027 Community Work Program.

1. Land Use Goals: Maximize the use of existing infrastructure; Ensure the most desirable and efficient use of land; minimize the costly conversion of undeveloped land along the edge of the community, preserve the residential character; and update land development regulations as needed.

2. Transportation Goals: Prioritize safe mobility and address transportation needs for all community residents including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and motorists to ensure an efficient transportation system that coincides with existing needs and future growth that links land use and transportation, supports economic vitality, connects neighborhoods to education, employment and services

3. Economic Development Goals: Encourage development or expansion of businesses and industries that are suitable for the community. Factors to consider when determining suitability include job skills required; long-term sustainability; linkages to other economic activities in the region; impact on the resources of the area; or prospects for creating job opportunities that meet the needs of a diverse local workforce.

4. Housing Goals: Promote an adequate range of diverse, safe, affordable, inclusive, and resource efficient housing in the community