Work begins on new lakeside development

BUFORD - Even with the level of Lake Lanier at an all-time low and still dropping, work has begun on a new lakeside residential development.

It will consist of 114 town homes; a retail village with shops, cafes and restaurants; a fitness center; and fuel dock.

It will be located on the former site of Lanier Harbor Marina in Buford.

Developers say they are currently finalizing contracts from the more than 100 people who pre-registered to purchase town homes in the summer. The first phase of the residential part of the project is expected to be completed sometime next year.

It is being built using EarthCraft House standards, as well as incorporating other "green" building practices. It is the first mixed-use community of its kind in the nation, according to the developers, to use standards of five "green" building programs.

Waterfront Lanier Harbor is being developed by Barkley Geib, the owner of Lanier Harbor Marina.