Clarkston Community Center Joins City at GEPC Retreat to Advance Years of Placemaking Progress April 21, 2025 – Atlanta, GA
The Clarkston Community Center (CCC) joined the City of Clarkston at the Georgia Empowerment Placemaking Cohort (GEPC) Spring Retreat, hosted at the Georgia Municipal Association in downtown Atlanta. As a longstanding member of the city’s placemaking committee, CCC has supported these community-building efforts for several years—advocating for creative, inclusive, and culturally relevant public spaces throughout Clarkston.
The retreat brought together city teams from across Georgia to share progress, challenges, and next steps in transforming neighborhoods through placemaking. The day included community presentations, breakout sessions, and learning opportunities focused on project sustainability, funding, and equitable design.
City-Led Placemaking, Community-Driven Vision
Over the past several years, the City of Clarkston has led a vibrant placemaking strategy that blends art, infrastructure, and neighborhood identity to bring public spaces to life. With input and ongoing participation from community partners like CCC, the city has delivered meaningful improvements, including:
- Colorful bench installations across pocket parks, encouraging connection and relaxation.
- Public murals that celebrate cultural identity, such as “Heart of Mother Earth” by Shannon Willow and “Smile, You’re in Clarkston” by Teresa Afternoon.
- The striking El Seed mural at the Clarkston Library, created in collaboration with the Alif Institute and Decatur Alliance.
- Upcoming projects, including new art installations this May and a dynamic mural under the N. Indian Creek underpass.
These efforts have not only beautified the city but also increased foot traffic, boosted neighborhood pride, and helped shape Clarkston into a more welcoming, walkable place.
CCC’s Ongoing Commitment
The Clarkston Community Center, through the leadership of Executive Director Luay Sami, has been an integral part of the city’s placemaking committee for multiple years. CCC brings a community-centered perspective to every stage of the work, offering insight into public engagement, cultural expression, and youth involvement in the arts.
“Placemaking isn’t just about beautifying our city—it’s about belonging,” said Luay Sami, Executive Director of the Clarkston Community Center. “For years, we’ve stood alongside the City of Clarkston to make sure our public spaces reflect the stories, cultures, and dreams of the people who call this place home. This work is deeply personal. It’s about pride, identity, and making sure everyone, no matter where they come from, feels seen, welcomed, and rooted in their community.”
CCC has contributed to the success of these efforts by supporting outreach, hosting events, and collaborating with artists and residents to ensure that placemaking is inclusive and reflective of Clarkston’s rich diversity.
A Creative Future for Clarkston
Looking ahead, Clarkston’s placemaking committee is focused on:
- Enhanced wayfinding and city branding
- Trail-based public art and market enhancements
- Green space development through the El Seed Green Space Project
- Continued park beautification and creative community installations
As these initiatives evolve, CCC remains committed to supporting the City of Clarkston and helping ensure that every resident sees themselves reflected in the spaces around them.
