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About Blue Ridge, Georgia

Incorporated in 1886 and located in the northeast corner of Georgia, the City of Blue Ridge is the county seat of Fannin County. The City consists of 2.2 square miles and has a population of 1,290, according to the 2010 census. Named for the southern reach of the Appalachian Mountain Range that stretches into the area, the City of Blue Ridge boasts beautiful mountain views. With key water features, such as Lake Blue Ridge and the Toccoa River, Blue Ridge is the Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia. As well as being surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and near the southern tip of the Appalachian Trail, the area draws tourists and outdoors men from all over.

The downtown area boasts quaint shops and eclectic restaurants along with festivals and plenty of activities for residents and tourists all in a small town setting. Tracks for the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway bisect the downtown area, with the Scenic Railway itself operating out of the town's historic 100 year old Depot. The downtown area also serves as host for multiple festivals and the City is home to one of the few drive-ins in North Georgia, the Swan Drive-In theater.

The City of Blue Ridge operates under the direction of the City Council, which consists of the Mayor and five Council Members, all elected at large. The Council represents the interests of the citizens by adopting public policies and determining the scope of services and tax levels. The Council also approves ordinances, new projects and programs, and adopts the annual budget.

The Water and Sewer Department services approximately 2,500 customers and the Street Department maintains approximately 28 miles of City streets.

 January 13, 2020 Update:

Weather permitting curb, gutter and sidewalk along the trackside will be completed this week. Once that side is completed crew will start curb, gutter and sidewalk on the North side of West Main Street starting at Mountain Street. Storm Water installation at Dry Creek was completed late Friday afternoon by Street Crew. Water Main installation from Mountain Street to Messer Street is completed. Next step weather permitting will be to close Messer Street and replace that section of water line. Hope to only have Messer Street closed for 1-day. As repeated above weather is the factor.

December 2019 Update:

Streetscapes Project PI0010677 kicked off December 2nd, 2019.The project includes resurfacing the street, and replacing sidewalks along West Main Street, from 224 West Main Street to Mountain Street. This is a streetscape project; therefore, it will improve the appearance of the street and be more appealing to residents and visitors that walk the street daily. Caldwell Construction has 90-days to complete the project, but with good weather the project should be completed early. Some existing infrastructure was found to be defective once exposed. Council approved to replace a large storm water drain near Mountain Street and the water main for the entire length of the project. Replacement of City infrastructure will be done so not to slow Caldwell's progress. As of now the project is ahead of schedule. Every effort is being made to keep at least one lane of the street open for traffic to the businesses located within this project area. If anyone has any concerns / questions they may call Jeff Stewart at City Hall 706-632-2091.

The U.S. Census Bureau is currently seeking applicants to staff the 2020 Census Operations. These jobs start at $17/hour. They provide a mileage reimbursement, flexible schedule, and paid training. Most jobs can be worked full or part-time. No experience is needed for these jobs. Most jobs are operational work, 6-10 weeks per operation. There are multiple operations to perform in every county. Anyone over the age of 18, and a U.S. citizen is encouraged to apply at 2020census.gov/jobs. For more information, contact Jessie Clayton, Partnership Specialist, by calling 470-889-6530 or emailing jessie.l.clayton@2020census.gov.