The History of Peachtree City

A New Town in the Heart of the South

"“Peachtree City”, a new town, is growing on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia, the largest metropolitan area in the most rapidly industrializing region of America. It is a planned unique town, both exciting and practical. Its 15,000 acres of wooded terrain and lakes in Fayette County lie only 30 miles from the Downtown Atlanta business and financial district, 20 miles from the Atlanta Municipal Airport, ninth busiest airport in the world. Peachtree City offers the advantages of a “small town”, informal and charming, and of proximity to the “big city” with its retail stores, major banks, financial houses, cultural activities, professional services, industrial suppliers and markets. Peachtree City also offers an additional advantage available in few other places in America—the advantage of planned and controlled development. Industrial, commercial and residential uses will be located so as to assure maximum efficiency and compatibility with one another. All municipal facilities and utilities are available as, when and where required. Stability in the tax structure is built in by the staged development of a balanced tax base. From the beginning, Peachtree City will have

its own municipal government with full powers and jurisdiction. Peachtree City is not a subdivision or a mass-produced housing development, nor is it to be an isolated industrial park with no nearby residential area. It is to be a complete unit, offering maximum efficiency and protection for new industry and providing the full amenities of modern living."

Initial Development Plan

"Peachtree City will grow pursuant to a sound plan and realistic timetable. From the beginning, a careful balance between industrial, residential and commercial uses will be maintained and construction of the necessary streets, utilities and community facilities will be scheduled to support the development called for in the timetable. The timing of residential development will correspond with the staging of industrial development, and related to both will be the development of commercial and community facilities. The initial development plan for Peachtree City, shown in the opposite sketch, provides an area to accommodate about 2,000 families or 7,000 people. The planned industrial park indicated is a larger area than may be immediately necessary so that a maximum choice in the selection of industrial sites will be provided. Large tracts will be available adjoining both a proposed industrial boulevard and the rail line. Smaller sites will be provided without rail access for supporting services, light manufacturing, industrial research and truck-using wholesale and warehousing operations. Spacious residential areas will be provided in the north and east sections of the town to utilize fully the scenic beauty of a large new lake and the wooded, hilly terrain. Outdoor recreational facilities will create an atmosphere of informality and relaxation.

At the heart of Peachtree City will be a central business district running between the Newnan-Fayetteville Highway and the lake, with ample reserve areas for future growth and a civic center. The school will be centrally located and will at first serve all grade levels, but construction of neighborhood elementary schools would eventually cause it to be used exclusively as a high school.

On the opposite page (below on this page) is an artist’s rendering of Peachtree City in its early stage of development. In such a community, property is protected by building into its basic plan the following sound principles of layout and design:

1. Industry is accommodated in the spacious, highly-specialized park area, separate from, but easily accessible to the residential and recreational areas.

2. Residential growth is contained in compact neighborhood units built around schools, churches and other civic facilities and convenient shopping centers. Full advantage is taken of the wooded terrain and the lake waterfront.

3. Central commercial facilities are easily accessible and available to all neighborhood areas. The central business district is both attractive and efficient, and is surrounded by open areas to provide for future expansion.

4. The circulation system separates through traffic from local traffic, providing safe and rapid access to and from all points. Intersections of major arteries are separated by interchanges.

5. Full use is made of the topography to give the entire community a high esthetic standard. Different land uses are screened from one another by plantings, open space and skillful use of topography.

6. Residential development takes place at low densities and strong zoning regulations assure quality standards.

7. Even at ultimate development, the community is interspersed with permanent open spaces and wooded areas. Expansion takes place by adding new self-contained neighborhoods rather than indefinitely expanding old ones.

8. Orderly growth is assured by a coordination of all community facility programs including water, sewer, libraries, parks, recreation areas, streets, fire stations, civic buildings.

9. Recreation areas are located near residential areas. Small neighborhood parks serve local residential groupings, and larger facilities such as golf courses are easily accessible to all neighborhoods.

10. Land uses generating noise or traffic are segregated from living areas. The blight of incompatible land uses does not exist.

11. All streets are protected against commercial strip development by requiring the lining of major arteries with trees and other plantings and by tight zoning restrictions.

Source: 1957 Peachtree City Prospectus

The History of Peachtree City, Georgia

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Fayette County, Peachtree City boasts a unique and fascinating history. From its unlikely beginnings as a bold experiment in planned development to its present-day status as a thriving community, the city's journey has been marked by innovation, resilience, and vision.

A Vision of a New Kind of Community

The story of Peachtree City begins with a man named Pete Knox, Jr., who in 1957 stumbled upon an article about the "garden city" concept popularized in England. Inspired by its emphasis on green spaces, walkability, and community living, Knox envisioned creating a similar community in the United States. He acquired 10,000 acres of land in Fayette County and partnered with a team of planners to bring his vision to life.

Building from the Ground Up

The initial years of Peachtree City's development were marked by rapid progress. A master plan was drafted, incorporating innovative features like a network of golf cart paths, interconnected neighborhoods, and a central business district. Homes and businesses were constructed to strict design standards, ensuring a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Facing Challenges and Finding Success

Despite its promising start, Peachtree City encountered its share of obstacles. Financial difficulties, disputes among stakeholders, and skepticism from the outside world threatened to derail the project. However, the city persevered, fueled by the commitment of its residents and the unwavering belief in its vision.

A Community Takes Root

By the 1970s, Peachtree City had begun to flourish. The city's population grew steadily, attracting families and businesses alike. New amenities were added, including parks, recreation centers, and cultural institutions. The unique "golf cart capital of the world" designation further solidified Peachtree City's identity as a vibrant and innovative community.

A Thriving Present and a Bright Future

Today, Peachtree City stands as a testament to the power of vision and community spirit. With a population exceeding 35,000, the city boasts a thriving economy, a diverse and engaged population, and a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As it continues to evolve, Peachtree City remains a model for planned communities around the world, offering a unique blend of urban convenience and small-town charm.

Beyond the City Limits

It's important to remember that Peachtree City's story is not just about the city itself. It's also a story about the people who have called it home, the businesses that have thrived here, and the countless individuals who have contributed to its growth and development. From the initial visionaries to the everyday residents who make up the heart of the community, Peachtree City's legacy is built on the collective efforts of generations past and present.