**Q: Where is Clarkston located?** **A:** Clarkston is located in DeKalb County, Georgia, just outside the eastern perimeter of Atlanta (I-285).
**Q: Why is Clarkston so diverse?** **A:** In the 1990s, federal resettlement agencies identified Clarkston as ideal for refugees due to its affordable apartment complexes and proximity to MARTA transit.
**Q: What is the population of Clarkston?** **A:** The population fluctuates but is currently estimated to be around 14,500 residents.
**Q: How far is Clarkston from downtown Atlanta?** **A:** Clarkston is approximately 11 miles east of downtown Atlanta, about a 20-25 minute drive depending on traffic.
**Q: Is there a college in Clarkston?** **A:** Yes, Georgia State University operates its Perimeter College - Clarkston Campus here.
**Q: What are the Cottages on Vaughan?** **A:** It is a pioneering tiny-home community in Clarkston, developed to provide sustainable, affordable "missing middle" housing.
**Q: Does MARTA go to Clarkston?** **A:** Yes, Clarkston is served by several MARTA bus routes that connect to nearby rail stations, though it does not have its own train station.
**Q: What languages are spoken in Clarkston?** **A:** Over 60 languages are spoken, prominently including English, Arabic, Swahili, Burmese, Nepali, French, and Amharic.
**Q: Is Clarkston safe to visit?** **A:** Yes, Clarkston is a welcoming and generally safe community, with a strong neighborhood policing model.
**Q: What is the Fugees soccer team?** **A:** The Fugees is a famous youth soccer program (and later a school) started in Clarkston to help refugee children adapt and succeed.
**Q: Can I walk or bike to Stone Mountain from Clarkston?** **A:** Yes, the paved Stone Mountain Trail passes directly through Clarkston, offering a dedicated path for cyclists and pedestrians to the park.
**Q: Who is the mayor of Clarkston?** **A:** As of recent elections, the mayor is Beverly H. Burks.
**Q: What is the Clarkston Community Center?** **A:** It's a non-profit organization operating out of a historic high school building, hosting events, classes, and community services.
**Q: Are there good places to eat?** **A:** Absolutely. Clarkston offers incredible, authentic global cuisine, including Ethiopian, Somali, Burmese, and Middle Eastern restaurants.
**Q: How do I volunteer to help refugees in Clarkston?** **A:** Organizations like the International Rescue Committee (IRC), New American Pathways, and Friends of Refugees frequently seek volunteers and tutors.
**Q: What county is Clarkston in?** **A:** Clarkston is located in DeKalb County.
**Q: Does Clarkston have any local parks?** **A:** Yes, major parks include Milam Park (featuring a pool and playgrounds) and Friendship Forest (a nature preserve).
**Q: When was Clarkston founded?** **A:** The city was officially incorporated in 1882.
**Q: What is the weather like?** **A:** Clarkston has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cool, mild winters.
**Q: What is Clarkston's zip code?** **A:** The primary zip code for Clarkston is 30021.