Volume 04 | July 2020

Inside: Outdoor Restaurants, County Loans, Tech Park Investment

Local company's work on epidemic recognized One of the nation’s top leaders in developing ventilation standards has received mention in several national publications recently, as the world seeks to stop the spread of COVID-19. ASHRAE, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, has been around a long time but it is new to Peachtree Corners. The company is moving its global headquarters here, bringing the latest in HVAC&R equipment and technology and a zero carbon footprint. As an expert in ventilation, ASHRAE has been cited recently in articles in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and the Washington Post regarding the control of infectious disease. " We have formed an Epidemic Task Force with more than 120 participants from around the globe that provides guidance on how to adjust HVAC systems to minimize the risk of spreading infectious bacteria, how to reoccupy buildings, etc.," said Jeff Littleton, executive vice president. The Epidemic Task Force helps assemble ASHRAE’s technical resources to address the challenges of current and future epidemics, especially as those challenges relate to HVAC systems in healthcare facilities, the workplace, home, public and recreational environments. To learn more about ASHRAE, go to: TASK FORCE

City approves outdoor seating

Restaurants may be permitted to seat customers outdoors as a result of an emergency declaration by the city council in June. Any restaurant that seeks to take advantage of this option must obtain a permit. For details or to apply go to: PERMIT APPLICATION

From the Mayor's Desk . . .

Investment Continues in Tech Park  An intense amount of investment in Technology Park has positioned it well to ride out the storm during these uncertain times. A look at some of the activity demonstrates a collective focus and a drive toward long-term economic success. Private companies and property owners have invested more than $60 million in their Tech Park buildings over the last four years, according to research recently performed by staff. These companies and property owners have made large-scale investments that, in turn, catalyze more redevelopment. READ MORE 

County offering grants, loans The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners approved a plan earlier this week to offer $20 million in federal CARES Act loans and grants for local for-profit businesses hurt during the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are intended to help businesses reopen their doors with such needs as deep cleaning facilities, modifying facilities to accommodate ongoing social distancing, restocking inventory, marketing to their clients, and/or paying staff in advance of reopening and achieving revenue . For more information go to: COUNTY LOANS or contact info@aceloans.org .

New Businesses opening doors in Peachtree Corners

Review the many new occupational tax certificates processed by City Hall. See the most recent  complete list of businesses  along with contact information.

Local mayors speak about business issues The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber presents a panel discussion on issues of concern to our local mayors. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about the issues that affect our community and our businesses. The mayors of Berkeley Lake, Norcross and Peachtree Corners represent three of Gwinnett's most diverse cities. The event will take place Friday, July 10 at 8 a.m. at Atlanta Tech Park, 107 Technology Parkway. For more information: SW Gwinnett Chamber

Paycheck Protection Program extended The deadline for the Paycheck Protection Program, the emergency loan program for small businesses and nonprofits, has been extended until Aug. 8. The bill was signed into law over the holiday weekend. It extends the application deadline for the PPP for five weeks. It means the U.S. Small Business Administration can resume approving PPP loan applications. More than $130 billion in federal guarantees for PPP loans are still available, according to the SBA.

Free Networking Events, Webinars at Curiosity Lab

The Art of the Pivot (Session 1) July 22 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm How do you know when it is time to change your “north star” and pivot? Click  here   for a complete list of events and to register to attend.