Tanger Outlets in Locust Grove will soon not be the sole landmark for economic stimulus in the city.

Tim Young, community development director and interim city manager, pinpointed four key areas where economic growth is being accommodated for.

These areas include efficiency, infrastructure, people and planning.

“Locust Grove concentrates mainly in keeping costs of government services reasonable and providing the optimum level of service for police, maintenance, public works and general government for its citizens and business community,” said Young.

Efficiency is maintained, said Young, through keeping a low budget and finding new sources of revenue to maintain “a proper reserve for operation in case of an emergency.”

Infrastructure has been a particular strength for the city, as more than $2 million has been poured into revitalizing the downtown area.

“We have invested over $2 million in stimulus, federal transportation enhancement and SPLOST funds to rebuild sidewalks and parks in the historic district and to create a historic streetscape bringing more investment into downtown,” he said.

Growth in the city is concentrated in the retail and services industry.

Tanger Outlet is the forefront of this sector, with a new addition featuring Brooks Brothers, Under Armour, Lucky Brand, Talbot and others to be added to the slate.

Market Place at Locust Grove is another crucial retail and services center, featuring Wal-Mart and Zaxby’s.

Future additions planned for Market Place include Murphy Express and IHOP.

“The service growth is mainly centered on restaurants to serve the rapid population growth in the area in the past decade,” said Young.

“Most notable is the French market in the historic downtown drawing diners from across the region and newer restaurants such as Koji Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi, Gezzo’s Grill and Cherry Berry Yogurt Bar.”

Decline still harbors in the housing industry, said Young.

According to Young, the city suffered from the high number of foreclosures but faces other dilemma.

“The city faces more long term issues with vacant subdivisions,” he said. “Our accounting shows that there are nearly as many undeveloped lots as currently exist throughout the city.”

Young identified medical and related services as one area of future growth.

“We expect that the merger of Piedmont with Henry Medical Center will mean future facilities on property owned by Henry Medical on Strong Rock Parkway,” he said. “Already we have seen good growth in diagnostic and dental offices.”