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The West End Mall, a cornerstone of Atlanta’s historic West End neighborhood since 1972, is poised for a transformative redevelopment. In October 2024, the City of Atlanta, in partnership with Atlanta Urban Development and Atlanta Beltline, Inc., announced plans to revitalize the 12-acre site into a vibrant mixed-use community.
A Vision for the Future
The proposed $450 million redevelopment aims to honor the rich cultural heritage of the West End while introducing modern amenities and opportunities. Key components of the project include:
- Retail and Commercial Space: Approximately 125,000 square feet dedicated to retail, featuring a much-needed grocery store, fitness center, diverse dining options, and local boutiques. Residential Units: Around 900 mixed-income rental units are planned, with 70% designated as workforce housing, 20% affordable at 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and 10% at 80% AMI.
- Student Housing: The development will include accommodations tailored for students, acknowledging the proximity to the Atlanta University Center Consortium.
- Hospitality and Medical Facilities: Plans feature a 150-room hotel and 12,000 square feet of medical office space, enhancing services available to residents and visitors.
- Community Amenities: The project envisions public green spaces, fitness centers, resident lounges, and bike parking to foster a sense of community and promote a healthy lifestyle.
Commitment to Inclusivity
A significant aspect of the redevelopment is the allocation of at least 10,000 square feet of affordable commercial space for qualified small, local businesses. This initiative aims to preserve the neighborhood’s unique character and support legacy businesses. Additionally, a fund of no less than $500,000 will be established to provide rent credits and tenant improvement allowances to qualifying commercial tenants, ensuring long-term success within the community.
Community Engagement and Timeline
The redevelopment process is designed to be inclusive, with active engagement from residents, business owners, and other stakeholders to gather input and feedback. Construction is expected to commence in 2025, with the first phase slated for completion in 2026.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
The West End neighborhood is renowned for its cultural richness and historical significance. The redevelopment project seeks to honor this legacy by creating spaces that reflect the community’s history and provide platforms for local artists and cultural events. The inclusion of affordable housing and commercial spaces is a testament to the commitment to maintaining the area’s diverse and vibrant character.
A New Chapter for West End
The transformation of the West End Mall signifies a new era for the neighborhood, blending its storied past with a dynamic future. This redevelopment not only aims to enhance the quality of life for current residents but also to attract new businesses and visitors, ensuring the West End remains a vital and thriving part of Atlanta’s urban landscape.
As the project progresses, continued collaboration between developers, city officials, and the community will be essential to realize a shared vision that respects the past while embracing growth and innovation.
