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Forsyth County paves the way for the NHL to move back to Atlanta. Commissioners unanimously approved the operating agreement and funding for a proposed multi-billion-dollar arena. The gathering would sit in the southern end of the county and feature hotels, homes and an 18,000-seat arena at the center of it all.
FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The Forsyth County Commission on Wednesday night approved the final agreements for The Gathering at South Forsyth, a $3 billion mixed-use project anchored by a proposed NHL-ready arena, clearing a major hurdle in efforts to return professional hockey to Georgia.
What we know:
The approval allows the massive 100-acre development to move into its next phase, with the potential to house an NHL expansion team pending league approval.
The project, pitched as a regional destination for sports, concerts, and tourism, is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and infrastructure improvements. Plans call for a mix of retail, residential, hospitality, and entertainment spaces centered around the NHL-caliber arena.
What they’re saying:
County officials say The Gathering will position Forsyth as a national leader in development and entertainment planning.
"This vote marks a catalytic step forward in bringing this visionary project to life," said developer Vernon Krause. "Our team is more energized than ever as we prepare to meet with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman to discuss possible expansion."
"This is a monumental period for Forsyth County and passionate hockey fans in the area," said Forsyth County Commission Chairman Alfred John. "The dream of an NHL team in the region is one step closer to being realized."
"This project represents years of planning, collaboration and vision," said Forsyth County Manager David McKee. "The County is excited to take this next step, and we look forward to continuing our work with the development team to ensure The Gathering becomes a model for regional growth and innovation."
"This vote marks a pivotal moment," said Vernon Krause, CEO of Krause Sports and Entertainment and the project’s lead developer. "We can go to the [NHL] commissioner and ask him to start a process, which we’re hopeful he will do."
The Gathering in Forsyth County. Courtesy photo.
Krause, who already owns the land, emphasized the strength of the local market and the readiness of the site.
"We’re closer than we’ve ever been to bringing NHL hockey back to our region," Krause said. "Thank you to everyone who has believed in our vision—hockey belongs in Georgia."
"That was the goal from day one," Krause said. "I remain very confident."
When asked whether the arena would be built without a team, Krause replied, "No. [We] would only build an arena if we get awarded an NHL franchise."
Despite the NHL not publicly announcing any expansion or relocation plans, local officials are optimistic.
"I have a very positive outlook. I believe we’re going to land a team," said Forsyth County Commissioner Laura Semanson. "If a team comes to Georgia, it’s going to be here in Forsyth County."
"We will have given it the best shot," he said. "That’s all we can do."
The backstory:
The meeting brought together the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners, the Board of Education, and the Development Authority. Officials reviewed and considered key resolutions related to the redevelopment plan, including tax allocation financing, operating agreements for the proposed arena, and intergovernmental agreements.
At the heart of the project is an 18,000-seat arena surrounded by hotels, homes, restaurants, and retail space. The live-work-play development is planned for a 102-acre site near Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Union Hill Road, roughly a mile from Georgia 400.
Officials and developers have emphasized that taxpayers will not bear the financial burden of the project. Funding would come from real estate taxes generated by development on the site, according to the current proposal.
The March 2024 memorandum of understanding between Forsyth County and Krause Sports marked a key step forward for the project, which is now undergoing more detailed review at the county level.
The project, led by Krause Sports and Entertainment, aims to lure an NHL expansion team to the region. Developers say they are in the final stages of preparing documentation for presentation to the league, although the NHL has not announced any plans to expand or relocate a franchise. Atlanta has previously lost two NHL teams—the Flames in 1980 and the Thrashers in 2011.
Despite the uncertainty, developer Vernon Krause remains optimistic.
What we don’t know:
If an NHL team cannot be secured, Krause said he would have to "reassess things."
The NHL has not yet responded to a request for comment.
What’s next:
The arena is targeted to open in time for the 2027 NHL season if approved.
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The Source: The details in this story are from the Forsyth County government and previous FOX 5 Atlanta reports.
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