Kristin Rome Winzeler, Executive Director, True North 400

In an interview with Focus:, Kristin Winzeler, executive director of True North 400, discussed infrastructure priorities, evolving work patterns, and the power of partnerships driving North Fulton’s growth. “Everything we do depends on strong partnerships. It is important our partners see our value and know we are here to help them succeed.”

What developments in the region have most influenced the priorities and operations of the CID since you stepped in as executive director?
It has been a busy year for us. Typically, summer would slow down, but that has not been the case, which is exciting. There is a lot happening. I have been with the CID for about 13 years, starting as a project assistant. 

Our organization has been around for more than 20 years. We rebranded in 2023 during our 20th anniversary to better tell our story as True North 400. For a long time, many people did not know what a CID was, which, in some ways, worked in our favor. We got a lot done during that time.

Since 2003, we have invested about $30 million, leveraging around $217 million in total investment. We focus on infrastructure improvements and economic development for our commercial property owners. We do not tax residential properties. Our board, made up of paying members, sets priorities based on what the district needs.

Today, there are about 30 CIDs in metro Atlanta. We are one of the older ones and bring in just under $4 million annually, which we reinvest in infrastructure. Often, we are the first to invest, covering design costs that help secure state construction funding that otherwise would not come to our area.

Sometimes we provide last-mile funding. Right now, for example, we are contributing $1.5 million to the Encore Greenway Park and Gateway project, adding a new connection to the Big Creek Greenway, which is a popular amenity in North Fulton.

We are also investing in a major economic development initiative with the Greater North Fulton Chamber and have always supported their work. Between new projects, strong partnerships, and our leadership transition, it has been a busy but positive year, and there’s more to come.

What are some of the most critical infrastructure investments needed to attract and retain businesses in the corridor?

There has been a big shift. Ten years ago, our work focused on road projects and new connections, with some sidewalks or beautification here and there.

In the last five to seven years, as reflected in our updated master plan, the focus has moved toward amenities that make the area more attractive and accessible. For example, we are improving connections to the Big Creek Greenway so employees can reach it more easily.

In Alpharetta, about half of the Alpha Loop, which is similar to the Atlanta Beltline, runs through our district. We helped fund the design of the phase that opened late last year and are working on more connections through our Quick Win Program.

When we build roads now, it is not just about laying asphalt. It is about walkability and multi-use corridors. A 5-foot sidewalk used to be enough, but now the minimum is 10 feet, and 12 is preferred.

This shift connects to changes in work patterns. Remote work remains common, but there is also a push to bring people back to offices. Cities and businesses are investing to make it safer and easier for people to walk to lunch or run errands instead of driving.

All of this happens in partnership with the county, cities, chambers, and economic development groups. It is about giving people a reason to be here and making the area more appealing. It is a positive shift and rewarding to work on these improvements alongside traditional infrastructure projects.

Why is it important to provide more amenities and options for employees in the district?
People want options, and that helps attract and keep talent.

Anything that makes office environments more appealing is valuable. When employees can walk the Greenway at lunch, use the Alpha Loop to grab a meal, or bike to downtown Alpharetta after work, it makes a difference.

Safe, convenient options encourage people to spend more time in the area and support local businesses. In my view, providing these choices is key to keeping the corridor vibrant and competitive.

How does collaboration with cities and partners shape True North 400’s work?
We cannot do anything without our partners, and we know that well. We work closely with the three cities in our district, Alpharetta, Milton, and Roswell. By law, we must spend our funds and resources within our district.

Recently, we expanded further into Roswell, specifically in the Holcomb Bridge corridor. We approved funding with the city to design a new portion of the Big Creek Greenway that, for now, is just a line on a map. It is about a $2 million project, with concept and design work expected in the next year, though federal funding may affect the timeline.

Nearly all of our projects involve partnerships. Cities handle land use and decide what goes where. Our job is to help realize that vision. For example, Alpharetta is redeveloping North Point Mall, and we are supporting it by investing in nearby infrastructure like the park across the street and the Alpha Link, which will connect the Alpha Loop and Greenway.

Partnerships go beyond cities. We work with MARTA and GDOT, too. MARTA recently redesigned bus routes, and we met with them to discuss where service is most needed.

One major project is the State Route 400 Express Lanes and Express Lane Transit, the largest infrastructure project in Georgia’s history at $4.2 billion. We are partnering with GDOT on community communications and will host a groundbreaking next year.

Everything we do depends on strong partnerships. It is important our partners see our value and know we are here to help them succeed.

How do you see North Fulton’s competitive advantage evolving over the next few years?
We already have a strong competitive advantage. Compared to other areas, we benefit from a solid foundation, and our commercial area is well-developed and attractive. Our goal is to keep elevating that.

Major investments show the confidence people have in this area. A $4.2 billion project like the State Route 400 Express Lanes demonstrates that trust.

There is also a clear benefit for property owners. Properties inside the CID hold about a 25% premium over those outside. That value comes from better amenities, access, green space, and infrastructure that keep the area thriving.

The advantage is here now and will continue to grow, not just because of our work but because of the partnerships we have with cities and other stakeholders who share that vision.

What challenges or priorities are top of mind as the district continues to grow?
Our biggest challenge is making sure we do not miss the opportunities in front of us. There is a lot happening, from our own projects to major investments like the State Route 400 Express Lanes and Express Lane Transit. That brings MARTA, GDOT, the cities, and developers to the table.

We need to keep delivering value and staying ahead of the connectivity needs that come with projects of this scale. Roswell has had major economic wins recently, and more are on the way. Alpharetta is also planning a major redevelopment of North Point Mall, a landmark for North Fulton.

When these big projects come online, last-mile connectivity and how people reach these investments will be critical. We want everyone aligned to create a vision that supports growth and keeps the district competitive.

I also want to highlight the North Fulton Economic Alliance, led by the Greater North Fulton Chamber. It is an important regional effort we are proud to support. We are ready to be a strong partner to GDOT to help ensure that our investments deliver real value for our businesses and communities.