L.A. Fitness, Burlington Coming to U.S. 78

Before long, there will be a new work out spot and another place to buy clothes and home decor along U.S. 78.

L.A. Fitness and Burlington are moving into the Evermore Community Improvement District (CID).

And that's not all.

The grand opening of Stone Mountain Toyota's renovation is coming up in July, road improvements are continuing and other projects are on tap, said CID executive director Jim Brooks.

Here's a rundown of some of the projects and changes in the district, which runs 7.5 miles starting from the Gwinnett-DeKalb line, has more than 1,600 businesses and 508 property owners:

• L.A. Fitness is constructing a new facility where the old Kroger at East Park Place used to be.

“We have known for quite some time that redevelopment and reuse and rebranding would be part of our corridor," Brooks said. "A great example is the old Kroger store."

To match L.A. Fitness, the shopping center is getting a new facade, Brooks said.

• Burlington is moving into the site of the former Publix at U.S. 78 and Killian Hill. It will expand the existing space to create nearly 70,000 square feet, Brooks said.

"You’ll see 'Burlington' being displayed more prominently than 'coat factory,' " Brooks said, referring to the long-recognized 'Burlington Coat Factory' store moniker.

The new store will sell clothing in addition to items such as home decor.

"It's a new concept," Brooks said.

For those heading east on U.S. 78 to the shopping center, there will be a median break in front of the shopping center to allow left turns into the facility prior to getting to the left turn lane at Killian Hill, he said.

• Stone Mountain Toyota's renovation was between $2.5 and $3 million.

• There are a number of proposals on the old Stone Mountain Toyota building, but nothing definite, Brooks said.

• Gwinnett Chrysler Dodge Jeep is now a privately owned store, not company owned. The new owner is Five Star Automotive Group.

• Parallel roads are going on the north side of 78, about a $16-18 milion project. Construction could begin in June 2013.

• Big Lots moved into Staples old spot, as well as Anna's Linens.

• Baranco, which had a location at U.S. 78 near Ross Road, is in negotiations with another new car dealership for the facility, Brooks said.