July 31st 2024.
The West End Mall in Atlanta is undergoing major changes as it is being transformed into a mixed-use building. This means that it will not only serve as a shopping destination, but it will also offer affordable housing units for residents. This is especially exciting for those living near the city's four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), as the project is set to bring much-needed housing options to the area.
The plan to redevelop the West End was announced by the City of Atlanta and Atlanta Urban Development, along with two other projects. According to 11Alive, a total of 350 affordable housing units will be provided through these three developments. This is great news for the community, as it will help to address the issue of affordable housing in the city.
The West End Mall, which is named after the west side of the city, will be a valuable addition to the housing market surrounding the Atlanta University Center (AUC). This area is home to all four of the city's HBCUs: Spelman, Morehouse, Morris Brown College, and Clark Atlanta University. The new housing units will be available to those who earn up to 80% of the Area's Median Income. This means that individuals making half of this income will also have the opportunity to live in these spaces, as 20% of the units will be reserved for them.
The redevelopment of the West End, led by BPR companies, is the largest of the three projects. This is no surprise, as the property spans an impressive 12 acres. Over the years, the mall had fallen into disrepair, but the developers believe that the mixed-use space will not only provide housing, but also bring new retail and communal areas to the neighborhood. This will help to revitalize the area and make it more attractive to residents.
In addition to the housing units, the city has plans to include a grocery store, fitness center, and shopping boutiques within the West End development. Out of the 893 total units, 271 will be designated for affordable rentals, while the remaining will be for workforce personnel. With the AUC community in mind, 152 beds will also be set aside for student housing. Other amenities, such as a medical office and public green space, are also in the works.
The issue of housing has been a long-standing struggle for HBCUs in the area, with students even protesting on campus in the past. While the West End project may not completely solve this problem, it will provide another housing option for students. This is a step in the right direction, and the hope is that it will continue to improve the living situation for students in the area.
Developers are also looking to involve the community in the project. They plan to hold town hall meetings and surveys to gather input from residents and business owners. As John Majors, CEO of the Atlanta Urban Development Corporation, stated, "With affordable housing at the forefront, the West End development represents a unique opportunity to revitalize and reinvest in the West End community, creating a more vibrant, connected, and equitable neighborhood." This collaborative effort will ensure that the project meets the needs of the community and benefits all those involved.
The city has set a goal to break ground on the project in 2025, and it is expected to bring positive changes to the West End neighborhood. With a mix of housing, retail, and communal spaces, the West End development is set to become a vibrant and inclusive community that will benefit all who live there.
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