Buford, Georgia, is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern amenities. Its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and abundance of recreational activities make it a desirable place to live, work, and visit. The city’s strategic location near Atlanta, combined with its commitment to growth and development, ensures that Buford will continue to thrive as a key part of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area.

City Charter Date: Buford, Georgia, was chartered on August 24, 1872. The city’s history is closely tied to the construction of the Atlanta and Richmond Air-Line Railway, which played a significant role in its early development and growth.

Current Population: Buford has a population of approximately 16,000 residents. The city is part of both Gwinnett and Hall counties and has seen substantial growth due to its proximity to Atlanta and its reputation as a family-friendly community with excellent schools and amenities.

Elevation: Buford is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,183 feet (361 meters) above sea level. The city’s elevation contributes to its pleasant climate and offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Weather: Buford experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures typically range from the mid-30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. The city receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually, with occasional snowfall in the winter months.

Main Attractions: Buford offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to residents and visitors alike. Key attractions include:

• Mall of Georgia: One of the largest shopping malls in the state, featuring a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a movie theater and an outdoor amphitheater. See more HERE.
• Lake Lanier: Located nearby, Lake Lanier offers boating, fishing, swimming, and numerous recreational activities. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
• Buford Community Center: A multi-purpose facility that hosts concerts, theater performances, community events, and private functions. It also features a museum and an outdoor amphitheater.
• Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center: An educational center focused on environmental sustainability and local history, offering exhibits, programs, and outdoor trails.
• Historic Downtown Buford: Known for its charming streets, historic buildings, boutique shops, and local restaurants, the downtown area is a hub of activity and community events.

Government Type: Buford operates under a mayor-council form of government. The Mayor of Buford serves as the chief executive officer, overseeing the city’s administration and operations. The City Council, consisting of five members, functions as the legislative body, responsible for enacting ordinances, approving budgets, and setting policies.

City Hall, Emergency Services, Utilities, and Public Transportation Telephone Numbers:

• City Hall: For general inquiries and information, residents and visitors can contact Buford City Hall at (770) 945-6761.
• Emergency Services: For police, fire, and medical emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency police matters, contact the Buford Police Department at (770) 945-6761. For non-emergency fire services, contact the Gwinnett County Fire Department at (678) 518-4800.
• Utilities: For water and sewer services, contact the City of Buford Public Utilities Department at (770) 932-7981. For power services, Jackson EMC can be reached at (800) 462-3691, and Georgia Power at (888) 660-5890. For gas services, contact Atlanta Gas Light at (877) 427-4321.
• Public Transportation: Public transportation in Buford is limited, with most residents relying on private vehicles. For regional transportation needs, Gwinnett County Transit provides bus services and can be contacted at (770) 822-5010.
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