The South Metro Development Outlook (SMDO21) Conference will host its 19th annual event on Thursday, March 18 at 8 a.m. Held annually, the event welcomes hundreds of stakeholders and highlights the economic landscape in Clayton, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Henry, and Fulton Counties.
This year’s event will be held virtually due to COVID-19. Confirmed speakers will discuss the state of economic development, transportation, housing, small businesses and other issues impacting the South Metro region.
Some of the speakers include: Congressman David Scott, U.S. House of Representatives, GA-13; Doug Hooker, Executive Director, Atlanta Regional Commission, Executive Director and Board Secretary, SRTA; Jeff Parker, General Manager/CEO, MARTA; John Selden, Airport General Manager, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport; Jeff Parker, General Manager/CEO, MARTA; and Michel “Marty” Turpeau, Chair, Development Authority of Fulton County.
SMDO21 is hosted by The Collaborative Firm (TCF).
“COVID-19 has undoubtedly changed Georgia’s south metro region and with that change comes a clearer focus on how to build resilient, smart and thriving communities. SMDO will provide an opportunity to hear bold plans from the leaders who will help the region move forward,” said Michael Hightower, founder of SMDO and Managing Partner of The Collaborative Firm.
“Although the pandemic prevents us from hosting the event in-person, SMDO remains committed to promoting the economic development in S. Metro Atlanta communities, encouraging public-private collaboration and increasing the overall visibility of strategic projects that contribute to our region’s growth.”
This year’s event is presented by the Development Authority of Fulton County. Sponsors include Georgia Power and Elevate Douglas. Registration is $40. Registration is available at smdoconference.com.
Photo: Mayor William “Bill” Edwards and Michael Hightower at the South Metro Development Outlook conference in 2020. (Photo Credit: SMDO)