As the Atlanta metropolitan area has grown over the past few years, SR 347 has undergone strain from an influx of new subdivisions and housing developments, especially during morning and evening rush hours.

[citation needed] In late 2012, the DOT began clearing and grading work to widening the road.

In early 2013, the Hall County Board of Commissioners met to discuss eliminating the name "Friendship Road" and replacing it with the name "Lanier Islands Parkway.

"[11] Château Élan Winery & Resort and the Town of Braselton both announced their displeasure with the potential name change.

[12] The residents who live on Friendship Road were angered as well, as the change represented, to them, county government bowing to business pressure from Lake Lanier Islands.

The residents are also upset about losing yet another connection with the area's past, as the Friendship Community stretches back over 100 years, yet so much is being lost due to the road construction.