RKG Associates (RKG) Is Developing A Strategic Economic Development Plan (SEDP) For The City of Chamblee For 2016-2025

Response to Request for Proposals
September 17, 2015
CITY OF CHAMBLEE
STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Prepared by:
RKG Associates, Inc.

Economic, Planning and Real Estate Consultants
300 Montgomery Street, Suite 203
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Tel: 703.739.0965
www.rkgassociates.com
Response to Request for Proposals

RFP 2015-03
Strategic Economic Development Plan
City of Chamblee, Georgia
September 17, 2015
Prepared for:
R. Marc Johnson, City Manager
City of Chamblee Purchasing Department
5468 Peachtree Road
Chamblee, GA 30341
Prepared by

300 Montgomery Street
Suite 203
Alexandria, Virginia 22314

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cover Letter
Section 1:
Introduction .......................................................................................... 1
Company Profile
Project Leadership
Section 2:
Project Plan .......................................................................................... 4

Project Understanding
RKG Associates Philosophy
Scope of Services
Section 3:
Project Experience ............................................................................. 20

Case Studies
References
Section 4:
Project Team ....................................................................................... 25

Resumes
Section 5:
Appendix .............................................................................................. 30
Project Timeline
Required Forms
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SECTION 1:
INTRODUCTION

Real Estate, Economic Development, and Planning Advisors
RKG Associates, Inc. is a full service economic, planning and real estate consulting firm
with offices located in Alexandria, VA, Atlanta, GA, Dover, NH, Dallas, TX, and Quincy,
MA. Since our founding in 1981, the firm has successfully completed more than two
thousand consulting projects regionally, nationally and internationally, providing a
comprehensive range of economic, planning, marketing and management services to
governmental, business and institutional clients. The firm currently employs 10 full-time
professionals. We have grown to become one of the most respected economic and real
estate advisory consulting firms in United States.
RKG Associates specializes in the application of economic analysis to economic
development, real estate development and financing issues, toward the goal of attracting
private sector investment and job creation. The firm has completed numerous
commercial market analyses and is skilled at assessing the economic and fiscal impacts
of development projects on localities and regions. These analyses have included urban
redevelopment projects, neighborhood-scale revitalization projects, retail malls and a
variety of mixed-use developments, from site-specific to large-scale strategic planning.
Finally, the firm has worked with communities across the country in developing
achievable strategies for attracting and retaining key industries and strengthening local
economies.
Our firm has assembled a group of highly qualified professionals who bring their own
unique perspective to each assignment, and the firms strength lies in the diversity of
backgrounds and disciplines represented within the organization. The talents of staff
economists, planners, financial analysts, appraisers and real estate professionals are
brought together in a team effort to solve client problems. RKG Associates also has
access to, and works with, a wide array of affiliates and consultants who provide
technical expertise in such areas as architecture, urban design, engineering,
environmental science and associated disciplines.
RKG Associates Core Service Areas
Economic Consulting Services
Economic Development Strategies
Downtown Revitalization and Urban/Waterfront Redevelopment
Fiscal and Economic Impact Analysis
Labor Force Studies
Target Industry Analysis
Real Estate Services
Real Estate Market Research
Market Feasibility Studies
Highest and Best Use Studies
Financial Feasibility Analysis
New Construction, Land Development and Adaptive Reuse
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Planning Services
Brownfields Redevelopment
Municipal Master Plans
Tax Base Management Strategies
Municipal Service Studies
Open Space and Smart Growth Strategies
Transportation and TOD Planning
Contact:
Title:
Email:
Address:
Phone:
Web Site:
Mr. Kyle S. Talente

Vice President and Principal
kst@rkgassociates.com
235 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 400
Atlanta, GA 30303
404.596.8777
www.rkgassociates.com
Project Leadership
RKG Associates only uses full-time professionals on its projects. We customize the
internal team based on the expertise needs of the particular assignment. The one
component that does not change is the management personnel. RKG Associates uses
principals to manage all of its projects rather than a middle manager with partner
Steering. For this effort, Mr. Kyle Talente will lead RKG.
Mr. Kyle Talente is a Vice President and Principal with RKG Associates. Kyle brings an
extensive background in project management and has technical expertise in all facets of
market analysis. Kyle has worked on a wide variety of real estate, economic
development and planning projects during his tenure at RKG Associates. His
specializations include housing market and affordability analysis, local and regional real
estate market analyses, economic development strategies, downtown and urban
revitalization, economic impact analyses and target industry studies.
Kyles expertise is bringing his clients real world, market driven recommendations that
are founded in current market realities and projected conditions based on sound
economic fundamentals. Kyles work has led several clients beyond the visioning and
assessment phase and into successful implementation. Kyle has learned that this
grounded approach leads to a much stronger development process, particularly when
implementation requires/seeks a public private partnership. Mr. Talente is a graduate of
the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he received his Bachelors of Science in
Architecture and his Masters in City Planning.
Mr. Taylor Yewell is a Senior Associate with RKG Associates, and will serve as Project
Manager for the Chamblee assignment. Mr. Yewell has managed and consulted on a
broad range of public and private real estate and economic development projects
throughout North America. Taylor Yewells experience and expertise encompass market
and financial feasibility analysis, highest and best use studies, effective public/private
partnerships, implementation strategies, fiscal and economic impact analysis, cost of
land use studies, and economic development planning.
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Mr. Yewell has been professionally involved in economic development, as well as public
and private real estate ventures, throughout his career. Prior to entering the realm of real
estate and economic development consulting, Mr. Yewell was the Economic
Development Manager at Washington Gas, a major public utility serving the greater
Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Mr. Yewell holds a Masters in Real Estate from
Johns Hopkins University.
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SECTION 2:
PROJECT PLAN
RKG Associates general approach to all of its work is to be thorough. We utilize only
senior people to manage our projects and use only full-time employees. In this manner
we can assure the timely completion of our work and maintain quality control. In
preparing economic development strategies, our approach usually includes the following
elements:
Developing an understanding of the physical inventory of existing commercial

and industrial development that comprise the current local supply;
A comprehensive outreach initiative, collecting input from business leaders, real
estate professionals, public officials, community residents, and other
stakeholders who can provide useful insights into market conditions,
opportunities, and regulatory constraints;
Working with the City and its implementation entities to understand the needs of
the community and perceived market potential;
Identifying the traditional and unique economic development opportunities for the
City through a comprehensive, quantitative analysis;
Understanding current and proposed economic development projects within the
DeKalb County and the greater Metro Atlanta region that could impact the local
real estate supply and demand equilibrium;
Engage and educate implementation partners, community leaders, and local
constituents on the value, process, and benefits of economic development
initiatives;
Develop a comprehensive implementation strategy that addresses the
communitys stated goals, takes advantage of local and regional competitive
advantages, mitigates local challenges in an effort to move the City from vision to
action; and
Presenting the research findings, and the rationale behind it, to the Client.
Project Understanding
The City of Chamblee has completed a number of efforts that assess the development
potential of certain areas of the City. These efforts provide varying levels of
recommendations, but none offer a unified approach for the entire City. Between
opportunities surrounding assets such as Peachtree DeKalb Airport, the Livable
Communities Initiative area, the Citys downtown, and Interstate 85; and the activity
taking place at the former General Motors plant in Doraville, the City is seeking to
develop a comprehensive approach to creating wealth, attracting jobs, and sustaining its
existing commercial base.
RKG Associates has assisted numerous communities in establishing their first-ever
strategic economic development plan. Our approach is simple: [1] engage community
and business stakeholders to define the goals and objectives; [2] analyze the local and
regional market conditions to understand the opportunities and challenges to meet those
goals and objectives; [3] guide community leadership through defining the approach to
accomplishing those goals in a cohesive manner.
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RKG Associates has earned a reputation for engaging elected bodies, strategic partners,
key stakeholders, and community members in fact-based, objective dialogue. We
approach our strategic planning work with a single philosophy: our job is to inform and
empower the decision makers within the community to define a course of action that
matches the vision defined by the community with viable, supportable implementation
steps. Ultimately, a strategic economic development plan is not valuable if the defined
goals are not locally supported and the implementation strategy does not reflect the
values of the community.
RKG Associates Philosophy
The RKG approach to economic development strategies involves a multi-phase process
that emphasizes community participation, and uses economic reality to frame the
implementation strategy. Participation from the community is incorporated throughout
the process to establish buy-in and ensure action. The resulting product will be a userfriendly tool to guide public and private investments within the City. It is hoped that
through this initiative, the Chamblee Economic Development Department will be able to
administer all economic development efforts to attract and retain quality jobs, expand
local and regional retail/service offerings, and increase the Citys commercial tax base.
In short, the final strategy will provide a road map to enable a more prosperous
economic future for Chamblee residents as the community continues to experience
growth.
Participation - At the end of the process, the final product must truly be a plan
and strategy developed and understood by the community and its leaders, with
the help of the Consultant. It is essential that all City departments and local
agencies effected by this effort participate in and take ownership of the
implementation strategy. Furthermore, it is important to ensure the Citys
residents have the opportunity to participate in establishing the goals and
objectives for Chamblees strategic economic development plan.
RKGs
commitment to action-oriented results will help to create a plan that addresses
community desires and needs in a manner that enables the Citys Economic
Development Department. The participation process is designed to garner
meaningful input and communication between the stakeholders and RKG
Associates through informational interviews, strategically planned meetings, and
the joint development and implementation of marketing and management
initiatives.
Economic and Market Reality - The success or failure of the economic

development strategy will be determined by several factors. However, market
forces ultimately will play the largest role in the viability of the action steps
detailed in the implementation plan. As such, focus should be placed on past
trends, current conditions, and viable future growth projections in the key market
sectors of warehouse/distribution, light industrial, office and retail/service. This
understanding of the market forces that affect Chamblee, DeKalb County, and
the Metro Atlanta region will help frame the recommendations for
implementation.
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Implementation - At the core of a successful strategy is the need for community

buy-in as well as financial, economic, and market feasibility. We believe that it is
very important to understand from the beginning of the project: 1) public and
private mechanisms, including funding sources that are available; 2) financial and
organizational commitments that have already been made; and 3) other outside
revenue resources that can be identified. In addition, it is critical to establish a
definitive role for public and private entities to play that will ensure the
accomplishment of all goals set forth by the community and in recent and current
strategies. Understanding what initiatives can be headed or coordinated by the
various public and private entities will provide a strong basis on how the City will
be able to transition from analysis to action.
Scope of Services
PHASE 1: PROJECT ORIENTATION AND INFORMATION GATHERING
In this phase, the RKG Associates Team will listen to what the local community
representatives have to say about the assets, opportunities, and challenges for the
future in reference to revitalization efforts related to Chamblee, DeKalb County, and the
greater Metro Atlanta region.
Task 1.1 Data Needs Identification and Collection
Task 1.1 will address the data collection aspect of the project. RKG Associates will
develop a list of public information to be conveyed by the Client to the Consultant at the
kickoff meeting. The Consultant will require a wide range of data and information from
the Client to adequately complete this plan, especially given the tight time frame
identified by the Client. Any existing databases will need to be made directly accessible
to RKG. The following list provides an insight into the specific data needs:
Property assessment database for the City;

Current and historical demographic and socio-economic data;
Available industrial, office and retail property inventories;
Employment and labor force data;
Development incentive programs and program boundaries; and
GIS information.
In addition, RKG will require information related to recent or historical land use
applications filed within the City by private developers, particularly over the past five
years. The Consultant assumes GIS mapping information will be available for this effort.
If not, alternative methods will need to be identified to complete the analysis. The
following ESRI shape files and data layers will be required to complete this project:
City base map with local and regional transportation network;

Parcel boundaries;
Digital orthographic photos;
Topographic features;
Zoning district mapping; and
Property assessment records and tax maps.
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Task 1.2 Review Background Materials, Documents and Information

Before beginning any formal work tasks, RKG Associates will review relevant materials,
planning documents, databases, maps, and any other information relevant to the project.
A thorough review of such information will establish a research context from which to
begin the project and will provide RKG with a background perspective on the City and its
past and present economic development efforts. These materials include prior master
plans, ordinances, community histories, promotional material, traffic and park plans, and
related studies and programs existing, currently underway or proposed. At a minimum,
the review materials will include the following documents:
The Citys Comprehensive Plan;

The Downtown Development Authority boundary map;
Any small area or focal point development plans;
The LCI TOD plan;
Current City zoning ordinance and design guidelines;
Aerial photographs;
Other relevant prior studies (i.e. economic development, traffic, land use, parking
etc.);
Property and business inventory information;
Current land use plans;
List of proposed, planned and potential investment projects;
Existing and proposed roads and roadway improvements; and
Any locally derived economic and demographic data.
Task 1.3 Policy and Incentives Analysis

The RKG Associates Team will review existing City incentives, policies, ordinances, and
regulations, propose modifications to existing incentives, policies, etc., review alternative
incentives, policies, ordinances, and regulations that may enhance the Citys economic
growth and development, and propose alternative incentives, policies, ordinances as
appropriate. To accomplish this, the RKG Team will:
Compile existing incentives, policies, ordinances, and regulations;

Interview appropriate City staff;
Identify comparable incentives, policies, ordinances, and regulations from
communities with similar economic conditions and resources;
Prepare a framework for analysis of incentives, policies, ordinances, and
regulations;
Analyze findings from review of existing incentives;
Analyze applicable data from other components of the Analysis and Evaluation
section;
Analyze findings from review of alternative incentives;
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PHASE 2: PROJECT INITIATION AND OUTREACH STRATEGY

Task 2.1 Project Kickoff Meeting
It is recommended that an initial kick-off meeting be held with the City staff and a
dedicated Steering Committee in order to review and discuss key elements of the
project. The kickoff meeting is an important opportunity for RKG Associates to
understand the relevant issues surrounding the project better, for the Client and the
Consultant to come to common agreement regarding the projects objectives and to
understand the Citys expectations for the final product. RKG Associates recommends
that the Steering Committee include individuals who are knowledgeable about the
project and the economic development needs of the City as a whole. Logical points for
discussion at the kickoff meeting include:
What are the competitive strengths and weaknesses of the City of Chamblee?
Are the Citys top priorities detailed in the RFP still valid? Are there any
additional priorities to be considered?
How will public and private investment projects currently being proposed in/near
the City influence the long-term opportunities within the local market?
What efforts, if any, have been attempted within the administration to promote
and guide economic development within Chamblee, especially as they relate to
the stated priorities? How successful have they been? Why or why not?
Who are the additional strategic partners that will take leadership in
implementation?
What potential funding sources have already been identified for future
development and investment opportunities?
Aside from these strategic research questions, the kickoff meeting will help establish
project milestones, a schedule for deliverables, and suggested names of people to
contact and sources of information to consult.
Task 2.2 Guided Tour and Initial Site Assessment
As part of the project kickoff process, RKG Associates suggests representatives from
the Economic Development Department provide a guided tour of Chamblee. The
purpose of the tour would be to facilitate a preliminary understanding of the issues facing
the City in becoming strategic in implementing economic development efforts. Early
discussion of the issues and opportunities will give the Consultant a jump start on the
project.
After the guided tour, RKG Associates will perform a detailed windshield survey of the
community. This effort will serve three primary functions. First, it provides an
opportunity to better familiarize with the community and gain a stronger perspective of
the market climate currently in place in the City. Second, it allows RKG Associates to
confirm information provided by the Client, while enhancing our understanding of this
information. Finally, it provides the opportunity to physically inspect the location,
condition, size, amenities and layout of the local market within context of existing,
proposed and potential opportunities within Chamblee.
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Our firms combined practical experience as economists, downtown revitalization

specialists, real estate market professionals and developers, as well as our formal
education in architecture, urban design, planning, and business management provide
the City a valuable skill base making RKG uniquely qualified to complete this work.
Task 2.3 Key Stakeholder Interviews
This task will include a series of in-person interviews and small group sessions led by
RKG Associates key individuals with knowledge of Chamblee, local economic
development efforts and the regional real estate market. Over the years, we have
learned that the most effective way to begin to understand a community is through
candid one-on-one interviews with business and property owners, community leaders,
stakeholders, and citizens.
These interviews include discussions with senior
government staff, the communitys elected officials, business leaders, real estate
professionals, developers, civic organizations, and community residents. It is important
to interview those who are strong supporters of economic development efforts as well as
potential critics. In many cases, we have been able to diffuse any potential conflicts
early in the process by involving skeptics early and often through the process. Interview
topics will include:
Local and regional market trends;

Recent construction trends and their impact on the local real estate market;
Identification of competitive commercial areas;
Real estate pricing, occupancy levels and absorption trends;
Regional and local business climate;
Current residential stabilization and homeownership programs;
Regulatory environment for new development (e.g., zoning, approval processes,
etc.);
Local economic development organizational and marketing capacity;
Local environmental concerns; and
Potential funding sources and tax incentive programs.
RKG Associates proposes holding eight (8) focus group sessions and twenty-five (25)
individual interviews with representatives from various perspectives in Chamblee. The
first six (6) focus groups and twenty (20) individual interviews will be held during the
discovery and analysis phase, allowing RKG Associates to collect data, define common
goals, and identify potential challenges/concerns. The final two (2) focus groups and
five (5) individual interviews will occur during the plan refinement phase, allowing RKG
Associates and the Client to assemble broad representation from the City to learn about
and react to the draft implementation strategy. The ultimate allocation of focus groups
and interviews will be determined through final negotiation between the City and RKG
Associates.
Task 2.4 Client Interaction
RKG Associates proposes that RKG Associates meet with the Clients Steering
Committee a total of six (6) times during the strategic planning process. This approach
has proven very successful for RKG Associates in developing strategic economic
development plans, maximizing Client/consultant interactions to ensure understanding
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and buy-in while minimizing cost to the Client. The five sessions are envisioned to last
1.5 to 2.0 hours and cover the following topics:
Client Meeting #1 Project Kickoff
The goals and focus of this meeting are defined in Task 2.1.
Client Meeting #2 Demographic and Market Findings; Goal Refinement
Meeting #2 will allow RKG Associates to present the findings from the market
assessment, informing the Committee and the elected body on the current and projected
market realities in which all strategies will be framed. RKG will present the goals, as
established through the kickoff meeting for discussion and refinement.
Client Meeting #3 Target Industry Analysis; Stakeholder Feedback; Goal and Objective
Finalization
RKG will present the findings of the stakeholder feedback effort and the target industry
analysis, including the proposed target markets. The discussion will focus around
Committee buy-in to the targets and developing an understanding to various approaches
for retaining and recruiting those targets. The Committee and RKG Associates will
discuss these items, with RKG using the results of this discussion to create the full
strategy.
Client Meeting #4 Implementation Framework Presentation and Feedback
RKG Associates will host a meeting to present a draft implementation framework. This
allows the Committee to focus on major initiatives and priority concepts/strategies over a
full meeting. RKG and the Steering Committee will hold a work session on these
initiatives, providing for an open dialogue about any necessary clarification, identification
of concerns and discussion of potential alternative strategies. RKG Associates will be
prepared to discuss benefits/drawbacks of each initiative and its potential alternative.
Client Meeting #5 Implementation Strategy Refinement and Buy-In
Based on the results of Meeting #4, RKG Associates will return to present and discuss a
more refined version of the implementation strategy to ensure it reflects the vision and
focus of the community and Steering Committee. Continued discussion around points of
clarification/concerns is intended to result in buy-in and support for the final strategy.
Client Meeting #6 Final Presentation
RKG will host up to three separate presentation sessions of the final plan for the Client,
the Steering Committee, and/or general public sessions. The final presentation primarily
will be an information session, followed by the submission of the final report.
RKG Associates is willing to hold either joint sessions or separate sessions with the
Citys elected body and the Steering Committee. RKG found substantial success in
keeping the City Council in Roswell apprised of progress and analysis results while
working with the Steering Committee.
Since these meetings would be held
consecutively, holding separate sessions will add no cost.
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Task 2.5 Community Meetings

In addition to the Client Interaction effort, RKG Associates proposes three (3) community
meetings to be held at strategic points of the analysis. These meetings will allow
Chamblee residents to participate and provide feedback on the goals and strategies of
the implementation effort. RKG has substantial experience in assisting its clients
navigate potentially challenging issues and topics with community members in a
productive way that results in recommended goals and objectives. These meetings are
designed to ensure community members have a chance to be a part of the plan, and for
elected officials/Steering Committee members to hear goals/concerns first-hand. These
meetings include:
Community Meeting #1 Visioning (held consecutively with Client Meeting #1)
RKG Associates will meet with the community to receive input on their goals and
objectives related to economic development in Chamblee. The meeting will begin with a
brief presentation of the Citys stated economic development priorities as the foundation
of the discussion. RKG envisions having dialogue about perceived strengths, concerns,
opportunities and threats related to future financial investments and project viability in
the City. The meeting will allow local residents discuss their preferences related to the
outcome of this analysis.
Community Meeting #2 Market Findings (held consecutively with Client Meeting #3)
RKG will synthesize the presentations from Client Meetings #2 and #3 into an
information session for the Chamblee community. The presentation will focus on the
takeaway points and help establish the market realities of economic development in
the City. RKG will discuss how these realities affect the goals and objectives collected
to this point (emphasizing the goals presented by the community in the first meeting). A
discussion on how this does or does not change perceptions will complete the meeting.
Community Meeting #3 Draft Implementation Plan Feedback Session (held
consecutively with Client Meeting #5)
RKG will present the highlights of the updated implementation strategy to the community
for their edification and reaction. An interactive discussion will allow community
members to provide feedback on the plan as a whole or specific components. RKG
Associates will work with the City to integrate the relevant results of this meeting with
Steering Committee results to finalize the implementation strategy.
Given the size of the City, RKG proposes to either [1] have City Hall format meetings,
where all members of the community are invited to participate or [2] work together with
the Client to form a community stakeholder Leadership Group that has a wide cross
section of the Chamblee community represented. This Group would be different from
the Steering Committee, as the representatives would reflect civic and property owner
perspectives.
PHASE 3: REAL ESTATE MARKET ANALYSIS
Phase 3 will consist of a series of tasks designed to identify the economic trends and
evaluate the major business factors that are shaping and influencing the City of
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Chamblee and the greater Metro Atlanta metro region, and how these factors will affect
the viability of economic development efforts in the City.
Task 3.1 Economic Base Analysis
RKG Associates will examine the economic growth and demographic characteristics
within the City of Chamblee, as well as the local and regional competitive markets, to
identify socioeconomic trends influencing development decisions. Future growth within
the residential, retail/service, office and entertainment markets will be driven by changes
in population, household and employment characteristics. For example, a surge in white
collar employment within one area will result in increased demand for office
development. RKG Associates will examine population and household formation trends
and characteristics within primary and secondary markets (to be defined by RKG and the
Client). The economic base analysis will establish a local context for evaluating the
development potential in Chamblee. The proposed economic base section will include
an analysis of the following:
Population and household trends and projections;

Household and per capita income trends and projections;
Employment, establishment, and wage trends;
Recent unemployment and civil labor force trends; and
Education and occupational skill levels of the regions work force.
Task 3.2 Real Estate Market Analysis

This work task will include an analysis of recent real estate market trends within the City
of Chamblee. The focus of this research will be to identify market opportunities for
economic development activity that can be incorporated into the implementation strategy
to transition the City from area plan vision to action. For the primary real estate market,
the Consultant will examine supply and demand trends in the following market segment
categories:
Office;
Entertainment/Hospitality;
Warehouse/Flex; and,
Industrial.
This analysis will consider such factors as: (1) existing building vacancies, (2) land sale
activity and pricing, (3) annual land and building absorption trends, and (4) regional
competitive supply of residential and commercial land. RKG will analyze development
and absorption trends over the past 5-year period. The results of this Task will produce
a clear picture of recent land absorption, building development, and leasing trends, as
well as real estate pricing indicators. From this historical data and data collected during
the stakeholder interviews, the Consultant will identify future opportunities for that can be
incorporated in the implementation plan. These projections will then be compared with
the stated community goals to ensure compatibility.
The comparison of the Economic Base Analysis and the Real Estate Market Analysis
also will provide the framework for the implementation strategy in terms of the local real
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estate market climate, the current and projected development potential and the
strategies needed to be successful. The market data will be compared against the
qualitative feedback from Client interaction and stakeholder outreach efforts to refine the
ultimate action steps within the implementation plan to assist the Client in realizing the
local vision.
Task 3.3 Retail Market Analysis
In addition to the market analyses described above, RKG Associates also will perform a
detailed retail market analysis. This effort is separate from the other land use market
analyses because retailers tend to compete on a local level. In contrast, office and
industrial development often compete on a broader, regional level. While regional malls
and power centers do attract from a bigger area, the market competition tends to be
focused at a much smaller level. As such, the retail market analysis will focus on local
need and competition surrounding Chamblee, and look at supply and demand on the
Citywide level as well as up to four (4) local submarkets (to be determined by RKG and
the Client). For example, a submarket including the Interstate 85 corridor and its
immediate surrounds may be useful in trying to identify commercial opportunities to
better serve local needs while still focusing on attracting regional shoppers. This task
includes:
Commercial Trade Area Analysis RKG Associates will consider the Citys ability
to support new retail operations. The Consultant will estimate a geographic trade
area, which includes the Primary Trade Area (PTA) serving local households.
The primary trade area will constitute an area from which approximately 70
percent of total annual sales are derived. RKG would then undertake primary, infield analysis of drive times, road networks, peripheral communities (with an
assessment of competitive retail centers, which would include size, number and
type of tenants, etc.) and natural barriers to assist in developing trade area
parameters. The Consultants estimates of the primary trade area will be
confirmed or adjusted based upon findings from interviews with real estate
professionals. The supply and demand analysis will be based on the latest
secondary source data on population, employment, income and spending
potential & sales capture trends and projections (over a variety of goods and
services) in the trade area. Such data sources may include, but may not be
limited to, U.S. Census of Population, U.S. Census of Retail Trade, Claritas, Inc.,
and DemographicsNow. In addition, the analysis will take into account field
reconnaissance of the City.
Identification of Competitive Retail Centers - RKG will verify its analysis from the
previous study on retail centers considered competitive with existing facilities
within Chamblee and local retail centers. This will include nearby commercial
districts, shopping centers, and scattered big box retailers. The deliverable for
this task would include a written assessment of the regional retail market, an
overview of the demographic/economic characteristics that define the trade area
and customer base, and a revised assessment of how the competitive retail
market impacts the potential within Chamblee and the defined submarkets.
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Sales Potential and Retail Leakage Analysis Utilizing the supply and demand
data, RKG Associates will determine which products and services have unmet
sales potential, or where such spending potential is "leaking" (dollars being spent
by the local customer base in non-local establishments) to other market areas
outside these areas and why. The study will focus on all types of retail
opportunities, ranging from neighborhood and community needs to the potential
for super-regional facilities. Reasons for sales leakage typically include the
availability of more diversified shopping opportunities and competitive pricing of
goods and services in other markets and customer perceptions of the local
markets ability to meet their needs relative to other markets. The results of this
analysis, in conjunction with interview findings, will identify the retail market
opportunities for business expansion and/or recruitment within Chamblee. RKG
will be able to provide an order of magnitude of the market potential within each
retail category and provide recommendations on locations most appropriate for
the various commercial needs.
PHASE 4: TARGETING AND OPPORTUNITY ASSESSMENT

The tasks identified to this point lay the foundation for an economic development
strategy.
However, they do not provide a targeted recruitment strategy or
implementation plan to move from concept to action. As such, RKG Associates is
proposing the following additional efforts to assist the City of Chamblee reaching
success in all facets of economic development.
Task 4.1 Identify Recruitment Strengths and Weaknesses
The first part of a target sector analysis is the identification of the strengths and
weaknesses of the City. The purpose of any SWOT (strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities, and threats) analysis is to assess the competitive position of the
community. The questions that will be addressed in this portion of the analysis include:
What are the City of Chamblee's competitive assets and how can these assets
be used to improve the local economic position?
What are the best opportunities for economic growth?
How can the City reposition its assets to capitalize on future economic trends and
natural competitive advantages?
What obstacles or challenges stand in the way of the City achieving its economic
vision and how can these obstacles be removed?
RKG Associates believes that the best targeting strategies are those that capitalize on a
regions competitive strengths, while identifying the areas of concern so they can be
addressed and improved. RKG will research the competitive strengths and weaknesses
of the City, using the anecdotal data from the interviews with local leaders,
professionals, and stakeholders to corroborate the findings.
Task 4.2 Competitive/Comparison Communities Analysis
RKG Associates will compile a detailed competitive/comparison communities
assessment, dovetailing findings generated throughout this effort with additional
14 | P a g e

independent research. RKG will work closely with the Client and the Steering
Committee to identify those local communities deemed to be most
competitive/comparable in terms of business attraction. The RKG Team also will
research regional and national competitors/comparables as a foundation for identifying
potential best practices that could be incorporated into the implementation strategy. The
findings will be presented to the Client and Steering Committee for consideration and
comment prior to detailing the implementation strategy. RKG Associates will assess
Chamblees competitive position within, but not limited to, the following areas:
Socioeconomic conditions (i.e. size, wealth, growth, workforce...)

Market conditions (i.e. diversity of businesses, development patterns,
development assets...)
Regulatory conditions (i.e. incentive programs, tax rates, development
ordinances...)
Location conditions (i.e. transportation access, natural/recreational amenities,
gravity assets...)
Task 4.3 Quality of Life Analysis

Task 4.3 addresses the qualitative aspect of economic development efforts. When
performing a target sector analysis, it is important to understand the issues that impact
the personal preferences of company location decision makers as well as the facts and
figures of site location. To this end, RKG will review and address the following location
factors:
Quality of Life Factors
Crime
Quality of Education
Health Care Availability
Recreational Opportunities
Housing Availability, Affordability, and Cost
Operating Costs
Wages and Salaries
State and Local Taxes
Utilities
Land Prices
Construction Cost Factors
Operating Conditions
Labor Availability and Educational Attainment
Workforce Development Programs
Unionization Levels
Site/Building Availability
Utilities & Transportation Access
Permitting Regulations
Incentive Programs
15 | P a g e

Also, RKG will contact existing local employers in order to get a first-hand evaluation of
the City as a business location and gain insight as to their reasoning for moving into
Chamblee.
Task 4.4 Workforce Analysis
The availability of skilled local labor supply is a major influence in site selection decisions
by companies. To ensure the workforce available to businesses in the City is aligned to
the target industries (or has access to the proper training programs), RKG Associates
will perform a workforce supply and demand analysis.
First, RKG will audit the Citys labor shed, revealing the current skill levels available to
new or expanding businesses. Our prior experience in communities located in the
urban shadow of a large metropolitan area has revealed that the potential workforce
pool is not limited to local resources. RKG will analyze the labor shed determined
through data research and Client interaction that reflects Chamblees employment reach
in the Metro Atlanta region. We will work with local and regional workforce agencies to
define the likelihood of workers willingness to commute for the right employment
opportunity.
RKG Associates will review trends in education attainment and
occupational data for a labor.
Second, RKG will critically review existing workforce programs, inventorying the type of
workforce assistance currently being offered in Chamblee. The Consultant will
document where existing resources are being deployed, inventorying existing workforce
training programs for City/market residents. RKG also will interview local training
providers, educators and large employers to assess the compatibility of existing
programs to the needs of local businesses. As part of this analysis, RKG recommends
that a Business Labor Summit be held, bringing 15-20 training providers, educators and
employers together to discuss the current state of labor force preparedness and the
appropriateness of training programs. The Summit should include:
Private and non-profit training providers;

City/regional workforce development staff;
High-school, vocational and higher education professionals; and
Large employers from the City.
The results of both analyses will provide the framework for recommendations on how to
better position existing workforce development programs for Chamblees primary labor
pool. Simply put, some of the target industries may need skills that are not well
represented in the Citys labor draw area. To meet this need, some changes may be
necessary to training programs to address this skill gap. RKG will research if any state
and Federal resources could be used to provide additional/revamped training programs.
Task 4.5 Regional Cluster Analysis and Target Sector Selection
The objective of Task 4.5 is to identify and target business sectors representing the
highest probability of success for the City of Chamblee. Target cluster analysis involves
examining the economic relationships among commercial and industrial sectors. From
the cluster analysis, RKG Associates will be able to identify those market sectors that
16 | P a g e

may be enjoying a competitive advantage within the greater Metro Atlanta region and the
City of Chamblee; identifying those locations most appropriate for each particular
opportunity.
The underlying assumption of cluster analyses is that companies
concentrate in areas where they enjoy some competitive advantage. These advantages,
whether related to location, natural resources, vendor relationships, or other factors,
allow companies to compete more successfully.
A cluster is a group of companies in market sectors that are related in one of three ways:
Buyers and Suppliers - the most common relationship

Competitors - producers of same or similar goods and services, usually firms in
the same or similar industries
Shared Resources - companies which rely on the same location-specific
resources such as labor and raw materials
Target cluster analysis provides a method for determining local competitive advantage which in turn is crucial in attracting investment, be it through attraction of firms or
expansions of existing firms. The cluster analysis will rely on a statistical cluster
identification process designed to incorporate and assimilate local, state, and federal
economic data. The fundamental criteria analyzed in the process include:
Sector Growth - Sectors with positive growth over the past five to ten year period
and those that are most likely to grow both nationally and regionally.
Sector Size - Component industries of a market sector cluster must have

sufficient size in terms of total employment, number of establishments, and total
sales in order to justify their inclusion in the cluster. One exception would include
growing industries that are clearly supportive of a larger market sector that may
be located just outside the region. For example, a small cadre of precision
machine tool companies might be integral to the expansion of larger durable
goods manufacturing firms located within the region.
Sector Concentration - RKG will examine current concentrations of each market

sector in the region. Low concentrations of employment and establishments
suggest that a given industry may not be well suited for a given region.
Local Fit - Local fit includes both computerized analysis and considerable
professional judgment, based on community characteristics, sector preferences,
specific industry composition, and location-based activity. Local infrastructure is
analyzed including the presence of interstate highways, rail service, commercial
air service, utility costs, wastewater cost and capacity, telecommunication service
level, the match of the regions labor force profile with sector needs, and labor
costs as compared with national averages.
Other Criteria - Includes state-sponsored economic development targets, skilled

and professional workforce requirements by sector, tendency of given industries
to concentrate in certain areas, and job training resources, as well as domestic
and international regions of competition.
17 | P a g e

Additional targeting of companies in these market sector clusters will likely enhance the
Citys chances for success. However, the targeting analysis will not be restricted to only
known clusters. A broad range of categories will be analyzed from manufacturing,
distribution, and transportation to professional businesses and high-end services. This
will give the City a full range of options to consider.
PHASE 5: IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
Task 5.1 Implementation Strategy
RKG Associates will prepare an implementation strategy to be included as part of the
strategic economic development plan. The RKG Associates Team recognizes that the
City does not simply want to create a vision for the future. Rather, we recognize that the
community is interested in creating a vision for enhancing its economic development
efforts; and then enacting that vision to make it a reality. RKG Associates will construct
an implementation strategy to guide the Client in accomplishing these goals and
enhance the communitys efforts to attract viable, sustainable employment and revenue
centers. This strategy will help coordinate efforts between the various entities with a
vested interest in making the community a vibrant, exciting community.
In developing an implementation strategy, RKGs primary focus is to offer viable
recommendations that are grounded in the market realities of the communitys strengths
and weaknesses. It is crucial that short-term strategies focus on initiatives that the local
entities, with input and assistance from key stakeholders, can undertake within the first
few years without large commitments of public funds or time. Undertaking incremental
steps in the beginning stages of an implementation strategy should build momentum
within Chamblee and give investors confidence in the potential of the plan. Short-term
implementation recommendations can include organization restructuring, relatively small
investment projects, advertising campaigns and regulatory adjustments.
Successive recommendations should build upon these short-term actions, utilizing the
benefits resulting from the implementation of earlier tasks. RKG also will provide a midrange recommendation section that will likely include increasingly complex actions,
cross-departmental involvement and larger financial investment. These efforts will lead
into longer-term recommendations that will continue the communitys progress towards
meeting its goals while remaining flexible to adjust to changing economic conditions.
The long-term strategies may require larger investments of public funds; may involve
partnership agreements with outside agencies or the private sector; or may be complex
and difficult to implement.
For each action or strategy in the implementation plan, the Consultant will assign
Steering responsibility, establish timetables for implementation and completion,
recommended staffing and potential funding demands. The implementation plan may be
presented in a user-friendly evaluation matrix that can be distributed to various
implementing organizations or committee members.
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Task 5.2 Report Submittal

Upon completion of the analysis, RKG Associates will submit a draft report for review by
the Client. The Consultant and the Client will hold a conference call to discuss the
results of the Client review. Any points of interest and/or concerns on findings and
recommendations will be addressed during the conversation. Once all issues are
satisfactorily addressed, RKG will revise the document for final presentation and
submittal. RKG Associates will deliver five (5) printed and two (2) electronic copies of
the final report to the Client at this time.
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SECTION 3:
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
RKG has substantial experience in working with urban, suburban and exurban
communities on developing economic development strategies. Within the past 5 years,
RKG Associates has completed more than 100 public-sector and private-sector
economic development-related projects throughout the United States. Most notably,
RKG is very familiar with the Metro Atlanta region. In addition to Mt. Talente attending
Georgia Tech for his Bachelors and Masters Degree, RKG Associates has completed
the economic/market assessments in the region including the Peachtree Corners 2033
Comprehensive Plan; the Roswell strategic economic development plan; and the
Lawrenceville economic development strategic plan. RKG currently is working on similar
efforts to the tasks described in the Request for Proposals, including:
East Point, GA
Atlanta, GA
Cumberland, MD
Huntersville, NC
Washington, DC
Jacksonville, FL
Pensacola, FL
Annapolis, MD
Craven County, NC
Oconee County, SC
Blacksburg, VA
Chicopee, MA
Concord, NH
Clarksville, TN
Lake County, IL
Prince Georges County, MD
Westchester County, NY
KIPDA (Louisville region), KY
San Patricio County, TX
Liberty County, GA
Durham, NC
East Tampa, FL
Glenville, WV
Pacolet, SC
Portsmouth, VA
Simsbury, CT
20 | P a g e

PROJECT NAME AND LOCATION
City of Roswell Strategic Economic Development Plan
Roswell, Georgia
Proposed New Implementation Entity Structure
CLIENT
City of Roswell, Community Development Office
RKG SERVICES
Real Estate Market Analysis, Workforce Analysis,
Target Industry Study, Development Feasibility
Assessment, Organization Assessment, Implementation
Strategy
SITUATION
The City of Roswell desires to improve its fiscal and
economic health through expanded economic
development efforts. Historically, Roswell served as a
premier bedroom community for the City of Atlanta.
Through the 1980s, the City was the residential and
commercial center for the area. However, the rest of
North Fulton County began developing at that time,
attracting new residents, businesses, and investment. As
a result, Roswell began losing market share to
neighboring communities. Understanding the benefits of
strategic investment and economic diversification, the
City retained the services of RKG Associates to
complete the Citys first ever Strategic Economic
Development Plan.
Canton Street, Roswell
RKG APPROACH/SOLUTION
RKG Associates, in partnership with FOCOM, Inc.,
prepared a comprehensive analysis of the Citys
competitive position to attract new jobs, the current and
projected opportunities available for the City to begin
its efforts, and the Citys capacity to implement an
economic development plan. The effort included a
regional cluster and target industry analysis to identify
and target business sectors representing the highest
probability of success for Roswell. The plan also
addresses workforce readiness, entrepreneurial
development and business growth/retention
opportunities and constraints. The effort culminated in
an implementation road map for the City to succeed
in attracting private investment within an extremely
vibrant, but competitive regional market.
RESULTS
The City began implementing recommendations during
the plan development process, including the creation of
an external economic development entity, the creation
of is Downtown Development Authority, the approval of
a mixed-use development in the Citys downtown area,
and the complete rewrite of the Citys zoning code. The
Within days of the projects completion, several
interested property owners and developers have
approached the City to explore opportunities as a
result of the publicity surrounding the Citys new
approach to economic development.
Stonebridge I Building
Sanctuary Park
Proposed Catalyst Project Sites with Phasing
COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN

Community and Economic Development Strategic Plan
Lawrenceville, Georgia
CLIENT
Department of Economic and Community Development
City of Lawrenceville
RKG PROFESSIONALS SERVICES

Socioeconomic Analysis, Real Estate Analysis, and Strategic
Planning
SITUATION
The City of Lawrenceville historically has been an
employment center for Gwinnett County. In addition to
being the County Seat, the City also is home to the Gwinnett
Medical Center. The Citys primary growth sectors are Health
Care and Social Services, Government Services and
Educational Services. These three sectors accounted for
almost all of the job growth in the City, and experienced a
greater net gain than all of the other industries. The
challenge for the City was to diversify its economic base
while maximizing the potential of its limited available land
assets.
A market analysis was conducted to assess the potential for additional new
retail in Lawrencevilles traditional downtown. A specific focus was placed on
retail demand generated fro Lawrencevilles daytime worker population.
RKG Associates, Inc. was engaged to evaluate existing
market and economic conditions and assess the potential for
industry retention, expansion and attraction. However, the
strategic relevance and future disposition of City-owned land
assets emerged to the fore as a priority early in the work
program, and through broad consensus, the projects priority
shifted from a straightforward economic development
strategy to a site specific strategy.
RESULTS
RKG Associates worked with a Stakeholder Advisory Group
to better define and refine the economic development
priorities of the City. Once consensus was reached that the
City needed to focus its efforts more on real estate
development and business retention/expansion than on
traditional industry recruitment efforts, opportunity sites were
identified and ranked according to their near and mid-term
development potential. Market-supportable conceptual
development programs were prepared that capitalized on
strong demand for urban residential to leverage the
development of employment supporting space.
The final plan identifies real estate investment opportunities
in the Citys commercial areas, with an initial focus on
Downtown Lawrenceville. The Citys Downtown Development
Authority has retained RKG Associates to help develop and
implement a property disposition strategy. The final plan is
being presented for adoption in early September.
This urban infill development project in Lawrenceville combines residential on

the upper floors with ground floor commercial. An important ground floor
tenant is Cornerstone at Novologic, which maintains a cowork environment
of diverse organizations in order to build a community of entrepreneurs with
different perspectives and capabilities.
TOP 5 NON-RESIDENTIAL LAND USES

8% Med.
17% Mfg.
6% Office,
Bank
47%
Warehouse
22%
Retai
F&B
Understanding Lawrencevilles commercial and industrial market sectors and

land & building inventory was a key element to developing an opportunity
site-based economic development strategy.

Cumberland, Maryland
CLIENT
Office of Economic Development
City of Cumberland
RKG PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Demographic and Socioeconomic Analysis, Real Estate
Analysis, Target Industry Analysis and Strategic Planning
SITUATION
To the Citys credit, notable increases in employment

occurred in the finance/insurance, professional/scientific/
technical services, and health care sectors in the last decade.
However, significant increases occurred in relatively low
income service sector jobs coupled with a continued decline in
manufacturing jobs. Through a SEDP, the City sought to
initiate more comprehensive, proactive economic
development efforts, and therefore improve its fiscal, market
and economic health.
Care First Blue Cross Blue Shield, Commerce Business Park, Cumberland,
Maryland
INDUSTRY STRENGTH
Allegany County 2012 Employment
60.0%
Education
50.0%
2004 - 2010 GROWTH RATE
The City of Cumberland is a regional business and

commercial center for Western Maryland and the Potomac
Highlands of West Virginia. During the 19th century,
Cumberland was a key road, railroad and canal junction and
at one time was the second-largest city in Maryland after the
port city of Baltimore. With the restructuring of heavy
industry in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states following
World War II, the city lost many jobs. As a result, its
population has declined by nearly half, from 39,483 in the
1940 census to fewer than 22,000 today.
40.0%
30.0%
20.0%
Wholesale
Trade
10.0%
0.0%
-10.0%
-20.0%
-30.0%
Real Estate
Admin.
Services
Finance
Logistics
Entertainment
Prof.,
Tech., &
Science
Lodging
and Dining
Health
Care
Other
Services
Utilities
Construction
Agriculture
Retail
Trade
Manufacturing
-50.0%
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
LOCATION QUOTIENT
RKG Associates, Inc. was hired to evaluate existing market

and economic conditions and interview community
stakeholders. In addition, in collaboration with the project
steering committee, opportunity sites were identified to
provide a focus to future economic development efforts
within the City. Ultimately, these efforts culminated in a
Strategic Economic Development Plan that addressed
organizational, market and economic challenges in order to
establish a foundation for future, more in-depth economic
development efforts.
RESULTS
The plan was delivered to the City in November of 2014.
The strategy is under public review and is slated for
adoption in January of 2015. The City has already begun
implementing a number of recommendations. Most notably,
the Office of Economic Development is working with the Citys
business leaders to establish a public-private funded
economic development entity.
Information
-40.0%
Pedestrian-only retail corridor, downtown Cumberland
2.50
3.00

References
Ms. Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director
City of Roswell, Georgia
38 Hill Street, Suite G-30
Roswell, GA 30075
Phone: 770.594.6173
Economic Development Strategic Plan
Ms. Lisa Sherman, Economic and Community Development Director
City of Lawrenceville, Georgia
70 South Clayton Street
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Phone: 678.407.6599
Mr. Shawn Hershberger, Executive Director
Cumberland Development Corporation
57 North Liberty Street
Cumberland, MD 21502
Phone: 301.722.4156
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SECTION 4:
PROJECT TEAM
The RKG Associates Team will utilize its staff resources necessary to complete this
effort. The resumes of the key personnel that will be assigned to this project are
included in this section. At a minimum, Mr. Talente will dedicate 25% of his time to this
effort during the course of the study. Mr. Yewell will commit 33% of his time and Ms.
Callaghan will be 50% dedicated to this effort. Additional staff resources will be used on
an as-needed basis.
The following pages provide a sampling of the relevant qualifications of RKG Associates
staff members that will work on the project. Additional qualification data will be made
available upon request.
25 | P a g e
KYLE S. TALENTE, VICE PRESIDENT AND PRINCIPAL

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
Mr. Kyle Talente is a Vice President and Principal with
RKG Associates. Kyle brings an extensive background in
project management and has technical expertise in all
facets of market analysis. Kyle has worked on a wide
variety of real estate, economic development and
planning projects during his tenure at RKG Associates. His
specializations include housing market and affordability
analysis, local and regional real estate market analyses,
economic development strategies, downtown and urban
revitalization, economic impact analyses and target
industry studies. Mr. Talente has also worked with many
private sector clients on site selection and highest and
best use analyses.
Kyles expertise is bringing his clients real world, market
driven recommendations that are founded in current
market realities and projected conditions based in sound
economic fundamentals. Kyles work has led several
clients beyond the visioning and assessment phase and
into successful implementation. Kyle has learned that this
grounded approach leads to a much stronger
development process, particularly when implementation
requires/seeks a public private partnership. Prior to
joining the RKG Associates staff back in 1998, Mr.
Talente worked in the Economic Development
Organization of the Georgia Power Company where he
teamed with relocation specialists to assist prospective
businesses in site selection within Georgia
EDUCATION
B.S. Architecture, Georgia Institute of Technology,

Atlanta, GA, 1996
Master of City Planning, Georgia Institute of
Technology, Atlanta, GA, 1998
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Urban Land Institute (ULI)

Candidate, Certified Commercial Investment Member
(CCIM)
American Planning Association (APA)
Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA)
International Economic Development Council (IEDC)
Southeast Fairfax Development Corporation (SFDC)
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Roswell, Georgia
RKG Associates was engaged with the City of Roswell on
completing its first economic development strategy. RKG
is engaged with a series of advisory groups including the
City Council, a community-based strategy committee and
the Citys Convention and Visitors Bureau. The effort
focused both on establishing the best practices for Roswell

to be effective at economic development, the efforts the
City should be undertaking as well as how to best
leverage relationships with existing local and regional
economic development entities. Since the completion of
the project in early 2012, Roswell has attracted more
than 1,600 jobs including a 1,000+ job IT office for
General Motors.
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Kyle led a real estate-based community and economic
development strategic plan for the City of Lawrenceville.
The project focused on strengthening the Citys downtown
core through improving the sustainability of the Citys
existing employment base. The analysis provided a
number of real estate strategies and potential
opportunity sites. The work was the culmination of a
collaborative approach with the City and its major
stakeholders.

Portsmouth, Virginia
The City of Portsmouths Department of Economic
Development retained RKG Associates to develop a
comprehensive strategy to help guide the Citys
investments and efforts in targeting and recruiting
businesses that would benefit from the Citys competitive
advantages. Mr. Talente managed the effort, providing
a thorough target industry analysis and implementation
strategy. The final document provided detailed step-bystep action items intended to maximize the Citys
development potential.
Unified New Orleans Plan
New Orleans, Louisiana
RKG Associates was part of a large consulting team
tasked with synthesizing redevelopment strategies for
five of the City of New Orleans 13 districts following
Hurricane Katrina. The Unified New Orleans Plan was an
effort driven to bring consensus among the various
factions within the City that had created two unsuccessful
previously. Mr. Talente was in integral part of the
redevelopment strategies, providing the socioeconomic,
real estate and economic development analyses used to
guide the investment recommendations. Mr. Talente also
played a key role in developing and implementing the
complex public outreach and participation efforts.
Subregion 4 Sector Plan
Prince Georges County, Maryland
RKG Associates was part of a larger consulting team
tasked with identifying key areas of opportunity and
provide concept plans that demonstrate and apply
KYLE S. TALENTE
sustainable infill development principles within the Living
Areas and Industrial Area of Subregion 4. RKG
Associates analyzed current and projected market
opportunities within the Subregion. To gauge current
supply and demand conditions, RKG performed detailed
analyses for the industrial, retail, residential ownership
and residential rental markets, focusing on each of the
different zones within the Subregion. RKG also projected
future demand within each land use. An extensive public
participation process was conducted concurrently to
gauge insight from local residents and business owners on
their vision for the Subregion.
Commercial Economic Development Strategy
Annapolis, Maryland
Mr. Talente prepared a district-level economic
development strategy that examined the City's current
mix of non-residential land uses and made
recommendations on how the City should direct the
potential (re)development of its remaining undeveloped
and underutilized land resources. Mr. Talente identified
an economic development opportunity corridor, which
stretched from the historic downtown district to the Outer
West Street district. The plans recommendations for this
area were focused on redevelopment, regulatory, and
incentive-based strategies for building the Citys
commercial tax base.
Economic Diversification Plan
Hinesville, Georgia
Mr. Talente prepared an economic diversification plan
for the City of Hinesville, GA, Liberty County, GA and the
Liberty County Development Authority (The Partnership).
The Partnership wanted to identify opportunities to
diversify their economy as a countermeasure to reduce
the potential impacts if Fort Stewart and/or Hunter Army
Airfield were ever downsized or decommissioned. Mr.
Talente performed a thorough market and analysis and
target industry study to identify potential recruitment
targets.
The analysis also included a detailed
implementation strategy, providing a guide for The
Partnership to follow to improve their potential to
successfully attract these businesses.
Economic Assessment and Revitalization Strategy
Durham, North Carolina
RKG Associates led the economic assessment for two lowincome neighborhoods adjacent to the City of Durhams
downtown and created an implementation strategy to
attract commercial investment and improve the quality of
life for existing residents. Once described as the Black
Wall Street, these neighborhoods are steeped with
economic and cultural history for the Citys AfricanAmerican community. The analysis detailed potential
commercial revitalization projects that would improve the
local marketplace and preserve the historic character of
these neighborhoods while identifying methods to
encourage resident participation in the resulting
development and operation.
PAGE 2
Beauregard Corridor Vision Plan

Alexandria, Virginia
RKG Associates, Inc., teamed with a team of national
consultants, is preparing an assessment of the projects
impact on the Beauregard Corridor as well as the City of
Alexandria. The resulting findings of this analysis will
determine the likely impacts of the BRAC 133 project on
the corridor, which is experiencing intense redevelopment
interest from developers and land owners. Of particular
importance is the potential impact on neighboring
residential apartment complexes, which hold a large
share of the Citys affordable and workforce housing
supply. RKG will make policy recommendations to the
City intended to assist in maintaining a portion of the
affordable housing supply within the context of future
redevelopment. Finally, RKG will consider the fiscal
sustainability of potential future development in the
Corridor as it pertains to impact of growth on municipal
revenues.
Downtown and Waterfront Revitalization Strategy
Millville, New Jersey
Working with a national urban design firm, RKG
Associates prepared a comprehensive downtown and
waterfront revitalization strategy for Millville, New
Jersey. The community is located on the urban fringe of
Philadelphia and Atlantic City, experiencing
unprecedented growth interest from the development
community. The analysis focused on enhancing the success
already taking place in the downtown involving the
Glasstown Arts District along High Street. Mr. Talente led
the regional market and economic development effort
that identified catalyst development and redevelopment
projects for key parcels within the downtown including
riverfront sites along the Maurice River, the revitalization
of the downtown performing arts theater and
reestablishment of commuter rail service from
Philadelphia to Millville. RKG Associates continues to work
with the City, providing advisory services on the
implementation of these projects.
Downtown Redevelopment Plan
Bowling Green, Kentucky
RKG performed a district-wide revitalization strategy for
Bowling Green, Kentucky. This regional hub for
southwestern Kentucky had a failing downtown despite
being anchored by the Barin River to the east and
Western Kentucky University to the west. Mr. Talente was
instrumental in the creation of a comprehensive
revitalization strategy that focused on the revitalization
of downtown Bowling Green, KY. Mr. Talente conducted a
condition analysis of over 900 downtown properties,
including GIS mapping, which identified opportunities for
future neighborhood revitalization efforts.
TAYLOR B. YEWELL, SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Mr. Yewell, Senior Associate with RKG Associates,
has managed and consulted on a broad range of
public and private real estate and economic
development projects throughout North America.
Taylor Yewells experience and expertise
encompass market and financial feasibility analysis,
highest and best use studies, effective public/private
partnerships, implementation strategies, fiscal and
economic impact analysis, cost of land use studies,
and economic development planning.
Mr. Yewell has been professionally involved in
economic development, as well as public and
private real estate ventures, throughout his career.
Prior to entering the realm of real estate and
economic development consulting, Mr. Yewell was
the Economic Development Manager at Washington
Gas, a major public utility serving the greater
Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
EDUCATION
Master of Real Estate, Johns Hopkins University,
Baltimore, MD
Bachelor of Arts, University of Maryland, College
Park, MD
International Economic Development Council (IEDC)
Delaware/Maryland Chapter of the American
Planning Association (VAPA)
International Downtown Association (IDA)
National Main Street Program
National Association of Office and Industrial
Parks (NAIOP)
RELEVANT PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Economic Development Study, Midland Airport
Area, Fauquier County, VA
Conducted a cost/benefit analysis to assess the feasibility
of providing public infrastructure to the Midland Service
District Airport Area (home to the Fauquier/Warrenton
Regional Airport) near Warrenton, Virginia. The focus
on the study was to examine the various impacts on
future economic development in this area from public
investment in water and wastewater service, as well as
road improvements. The area is characterized by a mix
of agricultural and industrial uses.
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategic

Plan, Craven County, NC
This strategic plan for economic development
detailed the opportunities and corresponding actions
to maximize the countys ability to leverage its
resources while positioning itself to improve
efficiency and effectiveness. The plan incorporates
short-, medium-, and long-term initiatives that will
enable the county to take immediate action on
certain tasks as well as take initial steps in the
planning for long-term projects. A key element of
the plan was to unite the efforts of the countys
various jurisdictions, private sector stakeholders, and
regional and state strategic partners to achieve
common objectives.
Tech Park Feasibility Study and Marketing Plan
Ridgely, MD
Mr. Yewell prepared a feasibility study and
devised a marketing plan for the Mid-Shore Business
and Technology Park, a high-tech business campus
being developed by Caroline County, Maryland.
The business campus is located on 95 acres adjacent
to the Ridgely Airpark Airport. Recognizing the need
for the project to differentiate itself in an unproven
marketplace, recommendations included provisions
for LEEDS certified buildings to take advantage of
available federal and state financial incentives, and
otherwise convey a sense of environmental
awareness to prospective tenants. The marketing
plan calls for a regional effort under the unified
theme of the Environmental Peninsula, tying into
Chesapeake College and the Wye Institute.
Economic Development Strategy
Herndon, VA
Served as the economic expert assisting a multidisciplinary team in the development of a master
plan that seeks to upzone the area to realize the
maximum fiscal benefits that will accrue through
Transit Oriented Development. The Town of Herndon
will be the beneficiary of one of the transit stations
on Metros new Silver Line extension. Prepared
development pro forma and cost benefit analysis
for $26 million in public infrastructure improvements
necessary to support the significant increases in land
use density.
TAYLOR B. YEWELL
Huntersville, NC
The Town of Huntersville, located just north of
Charlotte on the I-77 Corridor, saw its population
grow from 3,000 in 1990 to almost 60,000 today.
The town has also enjoyed a 35% increase in
employment over the past decade. Nonetheless, the
town recognized the need to integrate an economic
development into land planning to ensure the
sustainability of its resources for future economic
development. The RKG plan included
recommendations on the management of real estate
assets, the coordination of ongoing economic
development efforts, the establishment of a business
incubator, and a target industry strategy.
TOD Strategy for Eight Transit Centers
Prince Georges County, MD
Home to three Metrorail lines and a major former
mall, Subregion IV, the heart of Prince Georges
County, is uniquely positioned to capture future
households
and
employment
at
currently
undeveloped (or under-developed) transit centers
and other growth centers, and to share in the future
prosperity of the Washington, DC metropolitan
region. To prepare the Economic Development
Strategy for Subregion IV, conducted an analysis of
existing conditions, outreach to key stakeholders and
the general public, an economic and market
evaluation, prioritization of centers and assessment
of economic impact, and delineation of
implementation strategies.
Business Assistance Study and CEDS Update
Quad Cities, IL/IA
Prepared recommendations geared to expanding
potential employment opportunities for BRAC
displace workers at the Rock Island Arsenal. The
study examined the business growth and
development in the local economy, assessed the
demographic characteristics of impacted employees,
and assessed the ability of small business assistance
programs and other resources to assist these
workers. Recommendations were made on how to
integrate these highly skilled workers into the nonDOD economy.
Business Assistance Study, Upper Route 1
Corridor, Prince Georges County, MD
Conducted an inventory of all viable businesses on
PAGE 2
the Route 1 corridor north of I-495 to Laurel.

Conducted surveys of businesses to ascertain their
reasons for locating in the corridor, as well as their
plans to expand or move. The study included
intercept surveys of retail patrons at two shopping
centers to gauge their satisfaction with retail
offerings in the area.
Southeast Waterfront Community Plan
Newport News, VA
Prepared the market analysis and identified
supportable redevelopment opportunities in support
of a Vision Plan for the Southeast Community in
Newport News. The lower income neighborhood,
characterized by a mix of public and private
housing, experienced a wave of developer interest
in prime waterfront real estate. The plan identified
open space and land use categories that take
advantage of new development opportunities while
ensuring a framework for community benefits such as
affordable housing, retail and job opportunities,
and shared access to the waterfront
Community Redevelopment Implementation
East Tampa, FL
This assignment focused on developing catalyst
projects to stimulate reinvestment and revitalization
in low-income neighborhoods. Detailed market and
financial analyses were conducted to determine the
feasibility of recommended projects that came to
include mixed-use retail, several mixed income housing
projects, and an International Public Market. The private
development community responded with significant
investments in the catalyst projects that emerged from
the study, and property values rose in response to the
renewed attention on what had become an area in steep
decline.
Eastside Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy

Charleston, SC
Led the team that evaluated the economic feasibility of
developing publicly funded infrastructure for a nine-acre
redevelopment site in Charlestons Eastside area. The
Citys objective was to accommodate 350 mixed-income
dwelling units with a 90,000 square foot commercial and
civic component. The project included an estimate of
infrastructure costs prepared by the engineering firm of
Parsons Brinckerhoff, market analysis, and preparation
of a funding strategy utilizing Tax Increment Financing
(TIF).
LAUREN M. CALLAGHAN, MARKET ANALYST/PLANNER

Ms. Callaghan joined RKG Associates in 2013 as a
Market Analyst/Planner. Her areas of expertise include
Geographic Information Systems (GIS), real estate and
market analysis. Prior to her hiring at RKG Associates,
Ms. Callaghan worked with the School of Management
and Labor Relations at Rutgers, developing a case
management system as part of a federal grant
evaluation team. She also has experience working in
commercial property management for Class A office and
retail space.
EDUCATION
B.A. History & Psychology, The University of Kansas,

Lawrence, Kansas
Master of City and Regional Planning, Rutgers, The
State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, New
Jersey

Urban Land Institute (ULI) ; ULI Young Leaders Group
RELEVANT PROJECT EXPERIENCE

The following are recent projects that best reflect Ms.
Callaghans skills and experience related to the proposed
assignment.
Economic Development
Cumberland, Maryland
Acknowledging the fundamental shift of Western
Marylands economy away from manufacturing and a
need to better understand Cumberlands new economic
role, the City hired RKG Associates to develop strategic
plan that outlines a path for future economic growth. To
develop a holistic plan, Ms. Callaghan provided an
analysis of existing socioeconomic conditions, quality of
life metrics and the non-residential real estate market.
These efforts included research and analysis of
quantitative and qualitative data and stakeholder
interviews to establish the foundation for the strategic
plan.
Bath County, Virginia
Home to the 250 year old Omni Homestead Resort in the
Shenandoah Mountains and a notable second home
market, Bath County identified the need to actively
pursue economic development partially in response to
decline in young professionals and families within the
County. RKG Associates was hired to develop a strategic
plan that acknowledges current conditions and identifies
realistic strategies for economic expansion.
Ms.
Callaghan is providing an analysis of existing
socioeconomic conditions and the residential real estate
market as well as implementation strategy development.

These efforts include analysis of quantitative and
qualitative data, stakeholder interviews and case study
review to establish the foundation for the resulting
strategic plan.
Business Incubator Feasibility Study
Cumberland, MD
Previous economic development efforts for the City
identified the potential for an incubator or co-work space
to facilitate the development of start-up and small
businesses within the Cumberland market. RKG Associates
was hired to evaluate the demand for an business
incubator, the potential of using a building in downtown
for this purpose and development of a business plan
should the incubator prove feasible. Ms. Callaghan
conducted the feasibility analysis portion of this project,
researching and analyzing the level of current demand
for an incubator and co-work space within the City.
Urban Revitalization and Master Plans

Greater Chillum Community Study
Chillum, Maryland
RKG Associates was hired as part of a larger team by
the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning
Commission to analyze the redevelopment potential of
the Chillum neighborhoods in Prince Georges County,
Maryland. Ms. Callaghan conducted an analysis of the
existing conditions of the Chillum area by evaluating
socioeconomic and demographic data.
She also
analyzed current housing affordability, the residential
real estate market and recent development activity to
understand future development potential. In addition, Ms.
Callaghan collaborated in the creation of economic
development and revitalization recommendations based
on RKG analysis and research.
Vacant and Abandoned Properties Master Plan
Louisville/Jefferson County, Kentucky
Observing a wide-spread issue with vacant and
abandoned properties within Louisville and Jefferson
County, the Office of the Mayor hired RKG Associates,
working with APD, Inc., to lead the effort to develop a
plan to establish short and long-term steps to promote
redevelopment and reverse the neighborhood
deterioration associated with these properties. To further
this effort, Ms. Callaghan prepared a marketability
analysis which identified areas of opportunity based on a
variety of factors. Using tax assessor data she developed
a housing inventory and sales analysis to provide a more
detailed understanding of the areas most severely
effected by vacant and abandoned properties. This
information was used to develop early intervention
strategies as part of the larger goal of producing a longrange master plan.

SECTION 5:
APPENDIX
Project Timeline
Based on the proposed scope of services detailed above, RKG Associates can complete
this project within an eight (8) month period. RKG assumes that all publicly held data
sources (i.e. GIS databases) will be made available with no charge to the Consultant in a
timely manner. Any delay in delivery of this information could delay the project. A
detailed time table will be provided once the scope is finalized.
Required Forms
The following pages include the forms required from the RFP.
30 | P a g e

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Response to Request for Proposals

September 17, 2015

RKG Associates, Inc.

Response to Request for Proposals

September 17, 2015

RKG Associates, Inc.

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Project Plan .......................................................................................... 4

Project Experience ............................................................................. 20

Project Team ....................................................................................... 25

City of Chamblee, Georgia

RKG Associates, Inc.

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Mr. Kyle S. Talente

City of Chamblee, Georgia

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Developing an understanding of the physical inventory of existing commercial

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Economic and Market Reality - The success or failure of the economic

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Implementation - At the core of a successful strategy is the need for community

Property assessment database for the City;

City base map with local and regional transportation network;

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Task 1.2 Review Background Materials, Documents and Information

The Citys Comprehensive Plan;

Task 1.3 Policy and Incentives Analysis

Compile existing incentives, policies, ordinances, and regulations;

City of Chamblee, Georgia

PHASE 2: PROJECT INITIATION AND OUTREACH STRATEGY

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Our firms combined practical experience as economists, downtown revitalization

Local and regional market trends;

City of Chamblee, Georgia

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Task 2.5 Community Meetings

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Population and household trends and projections;

Task 3.2 Real Estate Market Analysis

City of Chamblee, Georgia

City of Chamblee, Georgia

PHASE 4: TARGETING AND OPPORTUNITY ASSESSMENT

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Socioeconomic conditions (i.e. size, wealth, growth, workforce...)

Task 4.3 Quality of Life Analysis

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Private and non-profit training providers;

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Buyers and Suppliers - the most common relationship

Sector Size - Component industries of a market sector cluster must have

Sector Concentration - RKG will examine current concentrations of each market

Other Criteria - Includes state-sponsored economic development targets, skilled

City of Chamblee, Georgia

City of Chamblee, Georgia

Task 5.2 Report Submittal

City of Chamblee, Georgia

STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Proposed New Implementation Entity Structure