LAWRENCEVILLE — Gwinnett County is taking the next step toward transforming the long-vacant Gwinnett Place Mall property, opening the search for a developer to lead the ambitious redevelopment project.

The county-owned 72-acre site off Pleasant Hill Road is the centerpiece of a master plan known as the Global Villages project, which envisions a mixed-use community featuring as many as 3,800 homes, a central park, and an international community cultural center.

The proposed $935 million redevelopment aims to breathe new life into what was once one of metro Atlanta’s busiest shopping destinations. Gwinnett County has already invested more than $100 million into acquiring and preparing the site for future development.

According to county officials, the project is expected to unfold over the next 20 years, with demolition of existing structures and developer selection taking place in the early stages.

Developers interested in submitting proposals have until December 2025. The county anticipates selecting a development partner by early 2026.

Local business owners and residents have expressed optimism about the plan, hopeful that the long-awaited project will spark renewed growth and revitalization throughout the Pleasant Hill corridor.