{"result":[{"id":522,"title":"Salvation Army Receives Funding to Increase Impact","promo_title":"Salvation Army Receives Funding to Increase Impact","published_date":"2024-05-01","featured_image":{"id":2512,"parent_id":158,"resource_file_name":"sa4.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":487076,"resource_updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:33:46.983-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2023-09-28T10:33:47.126-04:00","updated_at":"2024-05-30T13:33:55.043-04:00","filename_hash":"sa4_pz3qN1p.jpg","width":2200,"height":1221},"filename":"salvation-army-receives-funding-to-increase-impact","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"hJgEOg","created_at":"2024-05-29T15:30:53.998-04:00","updated_at":"2024-05-30T13:33:55.026-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"https://atlantaemergingmarkets.org/\"\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc.\u003c/a\u003e (AEMI) has awarded $15 million in New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation to the Salvation Army\u0026rsquo;s HOPE with Dignity campaign. This award is in addition to a $2 million Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund Grant previously approved by the Invest Atlanta Board.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://atlantaemergingmarkets.org/\"\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc.\u003c/a\u003e (AEMI) has awarded $15 million in New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation to the Salvation Army\u0026rsquo;s HOPE with Dignity campaign. This award is in addition to a $2 million Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund Grant previously approved by the Invest Atlanta Board.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe AEMI NMTC transaction will support the construction of a five-story, 53,000-square-foot addition to expand the Salvation Army\u0026rsquo;s Red Shield Shelter on Marietta Street. The building will include an emergency shelter with 230 beds, along with a dedicated Education and Workforce Development Center, medical exam rooms, laundry facilities and common areas.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe NMTC-financed project is the first phase of a broader campus redevelopment that will include extensive renovations to the existing 46,000-square-foot homeless shelter to improve sleeping areas, case management and kitchen/dining space.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project will allow the Salvation Army to provide shelter to more than 2,000 men, women and children experiencing homelessness annually and will create emergency shelter space with 230 beds across four floors.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Salvation Army\u0026rsquo;s Red Shield Services Emergency and Transitional Housing Facility is one of the largest shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness in Atlanta, delivering emergency assistance, residential treatment\u0026nbsp;and rehousing programs. Red Shield received a Gold Certification for its programs, making it the highest-rated Salvation Army shelter in the Southern Territory.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFounded in 1890, the Salvation Army of Metro Atlanta is a financially independent chapter with 17 locations across a 13-county footprint in Northeast Georgia. The organization provides a range of programming focused on homelessness services, youth enrichment and anti-trafficking programs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":496,"title":"Invest Atlanta-Supported Projects Recognized with Two ULI Awards","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta-Supported Projects Recognized with Two ULI Awards","published_date":"2023-09-28","featured_image":{"id":2511,"parent_id":158,"resource_file_name":"uli_awards.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":309568,"resource_updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:29:09.858-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-09-28T10:29:10.604-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:30:23.140-04:00","filename_hash":"uli_awards_lPbq3ze.jpg","width":1280,"height":960},"filename":"invest-atlanta-supported-projects-recognized-with-two-uli-awards","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"DBgqgw","created_at":"2023-09-28T10:30:22.995-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:30:22.995-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Two Invest Atlanta-supported projects were honored at the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta 27th Awards of Excellence ceremony: \u003cstrong\u003eTrees Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Kendeda TreeHouse\u003c/strong\u003e for Excellence of Mission Advancement and \u003cstrong\u003eMarchon\u003c/strong\u003e in the Multifamily Residential Development category.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTwo Invest Atlanta-supported projects were honored at the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta 27th Awards of Excellence ceremony: \u003cstrong\u003eTrees Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Kendeda TreeHouse\u003c/strong\u003e for Excellence of Mission Advancement and \u003cstrong\u003eMarchon\u003c/strong\u003e in the Multifamily Residential Development category.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eULI recognizes outstanding real estate development projects, related programs and visionaries in urban development. Its awards programs are highly selective and spotlight a wide range of project types, sizes and initiatives, including everything from housing, commercial and mixed-use developments to new communities, open spaces and policy initiatives.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKendeda TreeHouse\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLocated in Southwest Atlanta, the Kendeda TreeHouse was built on what was once an industrial brownfield lot in Oakland City and serves as Trees Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s home office. The location was chosen to provide the historically underinvested community with greater access to education programming and green job opportunities. The 23,000-square-foot-building on Warner Street sits on 2.9 acres of land surrounded by native plants and more than 200 trees.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe TreeHouse features multiple sustainability efforts, including maximizing previous land cover, reusing lumber, implementing efficient day-lighting, and more. In addition, the building is designed for the future installation of solar panels.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTrees Atlanta is a nonprofit founded in 1985 to protect and improve Atlanta\u0026#39;s urban forest through plantings, conservation and education. It worked in partnership with Invest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta and Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. to finance the Kendeda TreeHouse, receiving $150,000 from the Brownfield Revolving Loan fund, as well as $13 million in New Market Tax Credits.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarchon\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMarchon is a four-story multifamily development featuring 305 residential units, approximately 33% of which are available for workforce housing at 80% area median income (AMI).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt on what was once an underutilized brownfield used as a parking lot for the King Memorial MARTA station, Marchon is now a vibrant transit-oriented, community-centered apartment complex that also includes retail space and outdoor amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe development was funded through a partnership with Invest Atlanta and MARTA, with MARTA lowering the land cost through a ground lease and supporting 50% of the brownfield environmental remediation while Invest Atlanta provided $6 million in tax allocation district (TAD) grants.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":491,"title":"A Mission to Help Others","promo_title":"A Mission to Help Others","published_date":"2023-09-26","featured_image":{"id":2506,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"ltlf_lateshia_woodley_20_jd-bs.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":330492,"resource_updated_at":"2023-09-26T09:55:12.156-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-09-26T09:55:13.768-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-26T09:56:09.929-04:00","filename_hash":"ltlf_lateshia_woodley_20_jd-bs_xNX7b8D.jpg","width":1280,"height":853},"filename":"a-mission-to-help-others","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"qFDQ_A","created_at":"2023-09-26T09:56:09.819-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-26T09:56:09.819-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Healing a community requires healing its citizens, and nowhere can healing do more immediate good than with children.\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.drlateshiawoodley.com/\"\u003eDr. Lateshia Woodley\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;has dedicated her life to helping children within underserved school systems.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHealing a community requires healing its citizens, and nowhere can healing do more immediate good than with children. \u003ca href=\"https://www.drlateshiawoodley.com/\"\u003eDr. Lateshia Woodley\u003c/a\u003e has dedicated her life to helping children within underserved school systems. Her focus is on strengthening the mental and emotional health of students, which she believes serves as the foundation of community-wide healing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I really and truly decided to dedicate my life to making a difference in the lives of kids who had some of the same struggles I did growing up,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Woodley. \u0026ldquo;So, for the past two decades, that\u0026#39;s the work that I\u0026#39;ve been doing: from being a teacher, to a counselor, to a principal, all the way to assistant superintendent.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Woodley\u0026rsquo;s background drove her to build her business: \u003ca href=\"https://www.dynamicachievementsolutions.com/\"\u003eDynamic Achievement Solutions\u003c/a\u003e, LLC (DAS). DAS is a counseling and educational consulting firm that works to transform communities that have historically been promised investment but might not have seen that investment materialize meaningfully. She works with educational institutions to combat mental health stigmas and improve the overall well-being of the communities in which they exist.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I decided after working as an assistant superintendent and seeing some of the concerns in the communities that I was a part of, that I wanted to have a greater impact and a greater reach,\u0026rdquo; she explains.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Woodley had a vision and clients. All she needed were the funds to expand her physical space and grow her mission in East Point. She learned about the Atlanta Open for Business Fund from Invest Atlanta and applied for a low-interest loan through the Atlanta Recovery Loan Program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a generous donation of $20 million from \u003ca href=\"https://welcome.wf.com/impact/\"\u003eWells Fargo\u003c/a\u003e to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We know that it\u0026#39;s difficult, more difficult for entrepreneurs of color to get funding in this financial space,\u0026rdquo; Dr. Woodley says. \u0026ldquo;And so, Invest Atlanta provides this avenue to make sure that we have an equal playing field and we\u0026#39;re able to be competitors in this global marketplace.\u0026rdquo;. She says being approved for this loan means she has the funds she needs to keep her business moving forward.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;If [the Open for Business Fund] didn\u0026#39;t come through for our funds, I don\u0026#39;t see how we would be able to continue the work that we\u0026#39;ve been doing. This has had such a great impact in the community,\u0026rdquo; she says.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe funding will allow her to create a center of operations, event space, a community garden and an individual counseling office. You can learn more about \u003ca href=\"https://www.dynamicachievementsolutions.com/\"\u003eDynamic Achievement Solutions\u003c/a\u003e and the services provided by visiting their website.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":484,"title":"A Renovated Home for Georgia Works","promo_title":"A Renovated Home for Georgia Works","published_date":"2023-07-31","featured_image":{"id":2441,"parent_id":151,"resource_file_name":"gw3.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":87708,"resource_updated_at":"2023-07-31T09:50:15.052-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-07-31T09:50:15.709-04:00","updated_at":"2023-07-31T15:51:39.619-04:00","filename_hash":"gw3_zyjLwJl.jpg","width":533,"height":525},"filename":"a-renovated-home-for-georgia-works","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"izj23A","created_at":"2023-07-31T09:51:05.307-04:00","updated_at":"2023-07-31T15:51:39.575-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The historic Odd Fellows Building will soon be home to Georgia Works, a nonprofit that helps men who are chronically homeless overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency. The Invest Atlanta Board approved a $1.25 million grant from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund to finance the building\u0026rsquo;s renovation.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe historic Odd Fellows Building will soon be home to Georgia Works, a nonprofit that helps men who are chronically homeless overcome barriers and achieve self-sufficiency. The Invest Atlanta Board approved a $1.25 million grant from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund to finance the building\u0026rsquo;s renovation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGeorgia Works purchased the tower portion of the Odd Fellows Building, located on Auburn Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward, in early 2023 with a grant from the Governor\u0026rsquo;s Office of Planning and Budget. Once renovated, the facility will house all Georgia Works operations under one roof\u0026mdash;providing expanded capacity for program participants, low-cost housing for program graduates and office space for the organization.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAlso included as part of the project is the renovation of four retail spaces on the ground floor. These spaces will be leased to local businesses at below-market rates to foster entrepreneurial opportunities and reactivate a historically disinvested part of the Sweet Auburn corridor.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGeorgia Works is currently based at the Gateway Center where program participants live in converted jail facilities. In the refurbished Odd Fellows Building, Georgia Works will increase the number of men it serves\u0026mdash;housing up to 164 men at any one time, including 40 spaces for men participating in the Georgia Works program, as well as transitional housing for up to 124 program graduates in 60, two- and three-bed shared units.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGeorgia Works provides participants with room and board for up to one year for a nominal fee while they participate in transitional work (earning $7.40 per hour for 30+ hours per week). The program also includes case management, workforce training, wellness classes, GED classes, support in obtaining a driver\u0026rsquo;s license, help setting up a bank account and life skill preparation courses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing completion of the Georgia Works program, graduates receive job placement assistance and have access to low-cost transitional housing through Georgia Works\u0026rsquo; Housing Division, which is a crucial step toward permanent housing and stable employment.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":474,"title":"A Nimble Approach for Housing Affordability","promo_title":"A Nimble Approach for Housing Affordability","published_date":"2023-03-31","featured_image":{"id":2359,"parent_id":145,"resource_file_name":"hob.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":63750,"resource_updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:31:11.746-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-04-03T16:31:11.781-04:00","updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:31:52.028-04:00","filename_hash":"hob_pz9vWaV.jpg","width":796,"height":767},"filename":"a-nimble-approach-for-housing-affordability","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"zQJVFQ","created_at":"2023-04-03T16:31:51.931-04:00","updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:31:51.931-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n In March, the Invest Atlanta Board approved a $6 million Housing Opportunity Bond Fund to acquire land that will be developed into additional affordable housing in the city of Atlanta.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn March, the Invest Atlanta Board approved a $6 million Housing Opportunity Bond Fund to acquire land that will be developed into additional affordable housing in the city of Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMetro Atlanta Land Bank, in coordination with the City of Atlanta and as a member of the Affordable Housing Strike Force, plans to strategically acquire property for the development of multifamily and single-family affordable housing. Developments will be located in the Hollowell corridor, Campbellton corridor, Thomasville and Downtown communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe goal is to serve families with the greatest needs, with affordability for rental properties available at 60% area median income (AMI) and below, while homeownership options will be available at 120% AMI and below.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are moving quickly because there are opportunities in the Campbellton corridor,\u0026rdquo; says Josh Humphries, senior housing policy advisor to Mayor Dickens. \u0026ldquo;The goal is to be nimble. We are positioning this for folks who want to build affordable housing. We don\u0026rsquo;t want to landbank the property forever, we want to help move that land and get housing built on it.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":467,"title":"Mission-Driven Investments","promo_title":"Mission-Driven Investments","published_date":"2023-01-30","featured_image":{"id":2313,"parent_id":139,"resource_file_name":"civic_impact.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":984243,"resource_updated_at":"2023-01-30T11:19:35.962-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-01-30T11:19:36.943-05:00","updated_at":"2023-01-31T11:31:24.015-05:00","filename_hash":"civic_impact_3kW2oyB.jpg","width":2918,"height":1712},"filename":"mission-driven-investments","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"bANBSg","created_at":"2023-01-30T11:21:52.909-05:00","updated_at":"2023-01-31T11:31:23.819-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) and the Center for Civic Innovation (CCI) have invested $185,000 into four mission-driven ventures to expand their impact in the communities they serve. These investments represent the fifth round of flexible, zero-percent interest loans through the Civic Impact Loan Fund, which was established to intentionally invest in Atlanta-based civic ventures.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) and the Center for Civic Innovation (CCI) have invested $185,000 into four mission-driven ventures to expand their impact in the communities they serve. These investments represent the fifth round of flexible, zero-percent interest loans through the Civic Impact Loan Fund, which was established to intentionally invest in Atlanta-based civic ventures.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Stephen McRae, president of Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc., social entrepreneurship is an essential tool in the fight to make Atlanta a more equitable city. \u0026quot;Not only are these four innovative entrepreneurs scaling their businesses and growing the local economy, but they are directly tackling key social issues in their communities,\u0026rdquo; said McRae. \u0026ldquo;Their work is creating real impact, and Atlanta is fortunate to have such passionate and driven leaders fighting for its future.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRecipients of the AEMI and CCI investment include:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://trudiary.com/\"\u003eTruDiary\u003c/a\u003e offers equitable, quality prenatal care for all moms \u0026ndash; providing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) services, such as food security, mental health support, lactation services, and transportation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.helpingempoweryouth.org/\"\u003eHelping Empower Youth (HEY!)\u003c/a\u003e equips youth to be leaders through three initiatives \u0026ndash; S.T.E.A.M., a leadership academy and reading program, and devises needs-based programming focused on providing alternatives and options for area youth.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://makemusiccount.com/\"\u003eMake Music Count\u003c/a\u003e is a math curriculum and app taught through playing the piano. Students improve math skills live and online guided by tutors playing the latest popular songs with its STEAM and SEL curriculum and app for 2nd - 12th grade students.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.thesaveinstitute.org/\"\u003eSAVE Institute\u003c/a\u003e is an innovative alternative to traditional high school that allows\u0026nbsp;students to learn academics through projects, life experiences, agriculture, vocational training and implementing business enterprises.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAll four entrepreneurs are recent graduates of CCI\u0026rsquo;s Civic Innovation Fellowship program, which invests in and amplifies the work of community leaders, entrepreneurs and movement builders who are actively solving inequality in Atlanta. The program has supported the work of over 100 community leaders, who have gone on to inform and inspire real policy change in Atlanta and beyond.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;In spite of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s widening inequality, which is once again the worst in the country, these leaders provide tangible programs and services that give us a fighting chance to solve it,\u0026rdquo; says\u0026nbsp;Rohit Malhotra, founder and executive director of the Center for Civic Innovation. \u0026ldquo;This program invests in people who don\u0026#39;t just talk about community, they embody it in who they are and all they do. Truth is the return on investment by solving inequality in our city is better than any other single investment this city could make. It will pay dividends for generations.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSince launching in 2017, the Civic Impact Loan Fund has provided more than $900,000 in loans to 20 early-stage businesses focused on community engagement, the arts, food security, wellness and education. To date, 80% of those loans have funded Black entrepreneurs, and 80% of all loans have gone to women.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe fund utilizes an innovative character-based underwriting model that leverages AEMI and CCI\u0026#39;s resources and relationships with social enterprises, rather than traditional underwriting measures such as credit scores, collateral, or revenue history. A goal\u0026nbsp;of this fund is to inspire other investors in Atlanta to replicate this model of investing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe partnership also leverages each organizations\u0026#39; services, as AEMI and Invest Atlanta provide underwriting, loan servicing and back-office support for the fund, while CCI leads hands-on training, operational support and the application process for the entrepreneurs seeking capital investments.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional capital for the 2022 round was provided by the Atlanta office of Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and JP Morgan Chase\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurs of Color Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":469,"title":"Good Starters ","promo_title":"Good Starters ","published_date":"2023-01-30","featured_image":{"id":2319,"parent_id":139,"resource_file_name":"india_jha_square.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":517258,"resource_updated_at":"2023-02-03T10:25:41.042-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2023-02-03T10:25:41.703-05:00","updated_at":"2023-02-07T09:56:30.309-05:00","filename_hash":"india_jha_square_M3qPXq1.jpg","width":1679,"height":1679},"filename":"good-starters","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"j_MRag","created_at":"2023-01-30T12:03:46.876-05:00","updated_at":"2023-02-03T10:25:51.142-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n During her time volunteering in women\u0026rsquo;s shelters, India Jha realized how something as simple as the lack of identification could prevent those experiencing homelessness from accessing the crucial assistance they need to move forward.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDuring her time volunteering in women\u0026rsquo;s shelters, India Jha realized how something as simple as the lack of identification could prevent those experiencing homelessness from accessing the crucial assistance they need to move forward.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBut it wasn\u0026#39;t until India participated in a Goodie Nation hackathon focused on making Atlanta more economically inclusive that a light bulb went off \u0026ndash; she could engineer a tech solution to solve that very problem for one of the nation\u0026rsquo;s most marginalized, vulnerable and overlooked groups.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Obtaining vital records, like birth certificates, is extremely important for the homeless; it\u0026rsquo;s the invisible key that unlocks many doors,\u0026rdquo; explains India. \u0026ldquo;Over 50% of the homeless cannot get access to medical benefits, government benefits, employment and more due to lack of vital records. It is most certainly the foundational first step.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIndia and her team created \u003ca href=\"https://www.minicityatl.com/\"\u003eMini City\u003c/a\u003e as a compassionate tech hub that obtains legal forms of identification, government and life-critical benefits for the homeless and those that serve them. \u0026ldquo;Our partner average is around 6-9 months without Mini City\u0026#39;s software,\u0026rdquo; says India, \u0026ldquo;and with our software, we\u0026rsquo;re able to obtain vital records and benefits within weeks.\u0026rdquo; In fact, Mini City just launched a new partnership with Equifax to further validate identification in seconds.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIndia forged another valuable connection with the Partnership for Inclusive Innovation (PIN) with help from the Invest Atlanta Innovation \u0026amp; Entrepreneurship Office Hours program, which serves as a concierge for businesses seeking support, technical assistance, capital and talent. PIN, which offers access to funding and support networks through resources across business, research universities and government, awarded Mini City with a $250,000 grant \u0026ndash; essential capital as India looks to expand on a municipal level throughout the city of Atlanta and Georgia.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIndia says her team members don\u0026#39;t consider themselves do-gooders, but rather good-starters, and are especially moved when they\u0026#39;re able to assist homeless youth with records and the subsequent benefits it unlocks.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;To help homeless youth get their first form of legal identification, bank account and government benefits so that they can start their dream job, move into that first apartment or enroll in an education program is always most inspiring to us,\u0026rdquo; says India. \u0026ldquo;It means a whole path has changed.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":466,"title":"Atlanta Receives $45 Million for Community Investment ","promo_title":"Atlanta Receives $45 Million for Community Investment ","published_date":"2022-11-30","featured_image":{"id":2165,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"151a1188.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":3715386,"resource_updated_at":"2022-12-08T14:51:34.740-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-12-08T14:51:35.913-05:00","updated_at":"2022-12-08T14:51:58.733-05:00","filename_hash":"151a1188_j3x214b.jpg","width":5760,"height":3840},"filename":"atlanta-receives-45-million-for-community-investment","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"pvw5Rw","created_at":"2022-11-30T09:39:54.644-05:00","updated_at":"2022-12-08T14:51:58.631-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta \u0026ndash; through Atlanta Emerging Markets Inc. (AEMI) \u0026ndash; received a $45 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, which will be used for economic development projects that create jobs and revitalize Atlanta neighborhoods.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta \u0026ndash; through Atlanta Emerging Markets Inc. (AEMI) \u0026ndash; received a $45 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, which will be used for economic development projects that create jobs and revitalize Atlanta neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis is the second consecutive allocation provided to AEMI, bringing a total of $95 million in additional economic development funding to Atlanta within the last two years through the City\u0026rsquo;s NMTC program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCongress established the NMTC program in 2000 to attract investment to areas with low median income and high unemployment. The program takes private equity contributed by investors and turns it into gap financing for redevelopment projects. AEMI is one of only four community development entities in the state of Georgia to receive an award this year.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAccording to Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, AEMI has invested $313 million in 62 projects, creating 3,754 new jobs since 2010. \u0026ldquo;Through the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s New Markets Tax Credit program, AEMI continues to make very meaningful investments in our communities that change not only neighborhoods but also the lives of residents living in them,\u0026rdquo; said Klementich. \u0026ldquo;We look forward to seeing this successful strategy continue with this latest allocation.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAEMI is a U.S. Treasury-certified community development entity created by Invest Atlanta in 2005 that specializes in providing financing for projects that create jobs and revitalize Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s distressed neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":462,"title":"Brownfield Loan Fund Helps Remediate Historic Structure","promo_title":"Brownfield Loan Fund Helps Remediate Historic Structure","published_date":"2022-11-28","featured_image":{"id":2149,"parent_id":135,"resource_file_name":"bf1.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":38954,"resource_updated_at":"2022-11-28T10:29:21.336-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-11-28T10:29:22.018-05:00","updated_at":"2022-11-28T13:45:09.525-05:00","filename_hash":"bf1_ZWjJrwP.jpg","width":512,"height":345},"filename":"brownfield-loan-fund-helps-remediate-historic-structure","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ueJZ5A","created_at":"2022-11-28T10:29:35.138-05:00","updated_at":"2022-11-28T13:45:01.890-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A $50,000 brownfield clean-up sub-grant awarded to Remerge Inc., will help facilitate the reuse of a vacant historic structure on Auburn Avenue into a community asset.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA $50,000 brownfield clean-up sub-grant awarded to Remerge Inc., will help facilitate the reuse of a vacant historic structure on Auburn Avenue into a community asset.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved the grant for the nonprofit, which serves a vulnerable population that is underserved or threatened with displacement due to dysfunctional community structures, such as embodied racism, poverty, social isolation, environmental abuse and corruption.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe grant will help Remerge remediate 597 Auburn Ave., which includes addressing heavy metal impacts in shallow soil that otherwise risk exposure to the site occupants and neighboring community. Once complete, Remerge will use the property as offices and a job incubator space to support its goals.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFunded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund helps finance the remediation of properties whose expansion, reuse or redevelopment may be complicated by the presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":446,"title":"Housing Affordability in the Westside","promo_title":"Housing Affordability in the Westside","published_date":"2022-07-27","featured_image":{"id":2005,"parent_id":124,"resource_file_name":"220_sunset_3.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":55515,"resource_updated_at":"2022-07-27T13:44:33.931-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-07-27T13:44:34.799-04:00","updated_at":"2022-07-27T13:44:40.479-04:00","filename_hash":"220_sunset_3_VRVZ7ke.jpg","width":542,"height":364},"filename":"housing-affordability-in-the-westside","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"yN7ofQ","created_at":"2022-07-27T13:44:40.384-04:00","updated_at":"2022-07-27T13:44:40.384-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board has approved $1.115 million in tax allocation district (TAD) grants to fund three small, multifamily residential projects that will increase affordability in the Westside community.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board has approved $1.115 million in tax allocation district (TAD) grants to fund three small, multifamily residential projects that will increase affordability in the Westside community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA $340,000 Westside TAD Resurgens Fund Grant will assist in the current redevelopment of \u003cstrong\u003e400 Paines Ave.\u003c/strong\u003e in the English Avenue neighborhood. The property will include six one-bedroom units leased at 60% area median income (AMI). Renovations will include ADA enhancements, utility upgrades and updates to the interior and exterior of the property. Other improvements will include reconstruction of curbs, sidewalks, streetscapes, stormwater management and curb cuts.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Westside Future Fund, which is a place-based community organization that utilizes private and philanthropic partnerships to revitalize Westside neighborhoods, received a $325,000 Westside TAD grant to fund a redevelopment project at \u003cstrong\u003e613 Echo St.\u003c/strong\u003e The project will feature seven units of affordable rental housing priced at 50-60% AMI. Plus, assistance from Atlanta Housing Project-Based Rental Assistance Voucher Program ensures tenants will pay no more than 30% of their income on rent.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Westside Future Fund also will receive up to $450,000 in Westside TAD Resurgens Fund Grants to finance the stabilization and historic preservation of \u003cstrong\u003e220 Sunset Ave.\u003c/strong\u003e for affordable multifamily housing. Built in 1950, the property is a historic landmark to Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Civil Rights Movement and was acquired in 2020 to preserve the structure. The redevelopment will include a complete interior and exterior renovation of the four original apartments and construction of an additional two-bedroom, one-bath unit.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I wholeheartedly support this,\u0026rdquo; says Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. \u0026ldquo;These are not only affordable houses\u0026ndash;seven at a time, six at a time, 10 at a time\u0026ndash;that all add up. This is also neighborhood revitalization\u0026hellip;when you start fixing them up and placing residents in them at affordable rates\u0026hellip;it has a huge amount of impact.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":448,"title":"Preserving Black Atlanta","promo_title":"Preserving Black Atlanta ","published_date":"2022-07-27","featured_image":{"id":2007,"parent_id":124,"resource_file_name":"1658781525427.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":634467,"resource_updated_at":"2022-07-27T13:53:18.405-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-07-27T13:53:18.474-04:00","updated_at":"2022-07-27T13:53:26.094-04:00","filename_hash":"1658781525427_aWXykpE.jpg","width":1920,"height":1080},"filename":"preserving-black-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"-HQqVw","created_at":"2022-07-27T13:53:26.063-04:00","updated_at":"2022-07-27T13:53:26.063-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Two historic homes in Vine City, owned by notable Black Atlantans, will soon be restored and preserved with help from a $1 million grant from the National Park Service (NPS) to Preserve Black Atlanta (PBA).\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTwo historic homes in Vine City, owned by notable Black Atlantans, will soon be restored and preserved with help from a $1 million grant from the National Park Service (NPS) to Preserve Black Atlanta (PBA).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePBA is a nonprofit that identifies and advocates for the preservation of buildings and landmarks that document the historical narrative of Black Atlantans. The grant will assist in the restoration of historic homes once owned by George Alexander Towns and Grace Towns Hamilton\u0026ndash;both of whom are tied to the long organizational history of the Civil Rights Movement.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGeorge Towns built his own home in 1910. As a co-founder of the Niagara Movement and the Atlanta branch of the NAACP, he often held meetings at his home with James W. Johnson, W.E.B. Du Bois and Walter White.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGrace Towns Hamilton completed her home in 1956. She was the executive director of the Atlanta Urban League, and in 1966, became the first African-American woman elected to serve in the Georgia House of Representatives.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe homes, which are now owned by Invest Atlanta, have been vacant and subject to vandalism and vagrancy for several years. Invest Atlanta and PBA applied for the grant with the goal of restoring their historic integrity and leveraging them as a community resource and educational space in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Atlanta has a proud legacy of leadership in civil and human rights, and we are truly fortunate to live in a city where we are surrounded by tangible history of movements and their leaders,\u0026rdquo; said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. \u0026ldquo;Thank you to the National Park Service, Preserve Black Atlanta and Invest Atlanta for helping us preserve that legacy for future generations.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, historic preservation is a proven catalyst for economic development. \u0026ldquo;Not only does the historic preservation of buildings help to give people a sense of place and connection to the past,\u0026rdquo; she said, \u0026ldquo;it also drives significant growth in that it helps enhance real estate values and attracts investment and tourism to a community.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe PBA grant is part of $16,247,500 in African American Civil Rights grants awarded by the Historic Preservation Fund, as administered by the National Park Service, Department of Interior.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n West End\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":441,"title":"New Primary Care Facility to Open in the Westside","promo_title":"New Primary Care Facility to Open in the Westside","published_date":"2022-05-26","featured_image":{"id":1939,"parent_id":115,"resource_file_name":"propco.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":275397,"resource_updated_at":"2022-05-26T09:50:20.902-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-05-26T09:50:21.677-04:00","updated_at":"2022-05-26T12:42:33.135-04:00","filename_hash":"propco_ooraeNr.png","width":489,"height":279},"filename":"new-primary-care-facility-to-open-in-the-westside","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"N2HVXg","created_at":"2022-05-26T09:50:48.149-04:00","updated_at":"2022-05-26T12:42:33.103-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A blighted property that has been vacant for more than 20 years will soon be transformed into a full-service healthcare entity serving the Grove Park and greater Westside communities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA blighted property, that has been vacant for more than 20 years, will soon be transformed into a full-service healthcare entity, serving the Grove Park and greater Westside communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta closed on a $500,000 Perry Bolton Tax Allocation District (TAD) grant to Ames Properties, LLC.\u0026nbsp; Owner and entertainment attorney, Jonathan Leonard, acquired the 11,000 square-foot commercial property located at 2056 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway in 2021 with the intent to renovate.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow under development, the property will be leased to a full-service healthcare entity, Primary Care Cohort 2 PropCo, which is an affiliate of Humana, Inc.\u0026nbsp;In addition to the nearly $1.8 million investment, supporting the whitebox construction\u0026nbsp;PropCo will invest capital to complete the buildout of its offices, which are scheduled to open in September 2022. The remaining 2,500 square footage will be available for lease to a compatible business.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is a much-welcomed amenity to the corridor,\u0026rdquo; says Semira Ajani, assistant director, Westside Initiatives. \u0026ldquo;The project is the first Resurgence\u0026nbsp;Grant to be awarded in the Perry Bolton TAD and represents an outstanding win for the Grove Park neighborhood and the greater Westside.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":433,"title":"New Markets Tax Credit Program Helps Finance New Trees Atlanta Headquarters","promo_title":"New Markets Tax Credit Program Helps Finance New Trees Atlanta Headquarters","published_date":"2021-12-20","featured_image":{"id":1772,"parent_id":86,"resource_file_name":"covid_volunteer_pruning_-_credit_trees_atlanta.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":122698,"resource_updated_at":"2021-12-20T14:54:04.664-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-12-20T14:54:04.710-05:00","updated_at":"2021-12-21T10:03:42.269-05:00","filename_hash":"covid_volunteer_pruning_-_credit_trees_atlanta_5EaWZBO.jpg","width":768,"height":373},"filename":"new-markets-tax-credit-program-helps-finance-new-trees-atlanta-headquarters","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"SLUc7w","created_at":"2021-12-20T15:05:27.654-05:00","updated_at":"2021-12-21T10:03:42.246-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Trees Atlanta will receive $13 million in New Markets Tax Credits funding to support its new headquarters at 825 Warner St. SW in Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTrees Atlanta will receive $13 million in New Markets Tax Credits funding to support its new headquarters at 825 Warner St. SW in Atlanta (adjacent to Murphy Crossing in between Pittsburgh and the West End). Founded in 1985, Trees Atlanta works to protect and expand metro Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s tree canopy through forest restoration, youth education, and advocacy. The organization impacts 4,200 youth annually through its programming, including workforce development programs aimed at preparing high school students for green careers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe new 22,000-square-foot facility will allow Trees Atlanta to plant 9,500 trees annually, reach more than 9,000 students per year, directly employ 95 high school students annually, and create 20 full-time equivalent\u0026nbsp;jobs. Trees Atlanta has made a deliberate effort to focus tree planting and youth education in Council District 11 in Southwest Atlanta. With a 20% unemployment rate and median household income of less than $42,000, the district includes many of the city\u0026rsquo;s most disadvantaged neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEquity undergirds all of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s efforts\u0026mdash;including environmental equity. Urban tree canopies improve air quality by capturing carbon emissions and other pollutants\u0026mdash;a single tree can absorb up to 150 kg of CO2 per year. Tree canopies also greatly reduce flooding and mitigate the heat island effect by cooling summer air temperatures by up to 5 degrees, reducing air conditioning needs by 30% and heating needs by up to 50%. Trees have also been found to improve physical and mental health by decreasing blood pressure and stress.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Trees Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s new headquarters project aligns perfectly with Atlanta Emerging Markets\u0026rsquo; mission to foster job creation and neighborhood revitalization\u0026rdquo; said Stephen McRae, president, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. and manager of Investment Services. \u0026ldquo;Equity drives our work at Invest Atlanta and AEMI, however environmental equity sometimes flies under the radar. This project, and the work of Trees Atlanta, will create workforce development opportunities for in-demand green jobs and ensure that all areas of Atlanta have access to cleaner air and a healthier environment.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":435,"title":"National Center for Civil and Human Rights Expansion Will Scale Impact","promo_title":"National Center for Civil and Human Rights Expansion Will Scale Impact","published_date":"2021-12-20","featured_image":{"id":1771,"parent_id":86,"resource_file_name":"ncchr_1.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":64416,"resource_updated_at":"2021-12-20T14:53:53.609-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-12-20T14:53:53.642-05:00","updated_at":"2021-12-21T09:27:22.335-05:00","filename_hash":"ncchr_1_OP9Wa9p.jpg","width":902,"height":576},"filename":"national-center-for-civil-and-human-rights-expansion-will-scale-impact","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"6NgaUQ","created_at":"2021-12-20T15:11:50.524-05:00","updated_at":"2021-12-21T09:27:22.313-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s board of directors approved a $250,000 grant from the Westside TAD Ascension Fund for the planned 23,898-square-foot expansion of National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR).\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Board of Directors approved a $250,000 grant from the Westside Tax Allocation District Ascension Fund for the planned 23,898-square-foot expansion of National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt in 2014 and operated primarily as a museum, the NCCHR not only houses museum exhibits, including the papers and artifacts of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,\u0026nbsp;but also serves as a training, education, conference, and performance facility.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The NCCHR is seeking to expand their local attraction to a national cultural institution that will serve as an education, training, conference and performance hub focused on human dignity, human rights and human justice,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This expansion is both a physical and a programmatic expansion. This transformation will help them deliver impact, it will help them reach their mission and it expands on the diversity conversation.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe enlarged footprint and new educational offerings will fundamentally shift the Center\u0026rsquo;s business model going forward \u0026ndash; increase annual admissions from approximately 202,000 to over 250,000; adding new revenue streams from corporate and law enforcement trainings; and increasing its rental income for external events.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNCCHR\u0026rsquo;s buildout includes the addition of an east wing to house an Innovation Lab including 5,000 square feet of flexible classrooms for students and teacher training, especially for underserved schools; training facilities for non-profit and corporate Diversity, Equity\u0026nbsp;and Inclusion (DEI) experiences; and human rights training facilities for courses for police officers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe new facilities will also allow the center to grow its Operation Inspiration Program to provide free and subsidized admission and transportation to up to 35,000 low-income (Title I-qualified) students annually.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We desperately want to build these wings because one of them will be devoted to having the kinds of conversations that bring community together in this space with the papers of Dr. King making progress on issues of equity, and diversity and inclusion like no other space can,\u0026rdquo; said Jill Savitt, president and CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. \u0026ldquo;We are seeking to be the hub of that in downtown Atlanta so people can come together and hash out these challenges.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":426,"title":"Fifth Third Announces $20 Million Neighborhood Investment to Accelerate Revitalization in Grove Park","promo_title":"Fifth Third Announces $20 Million Neighborhood Investment to Accelerate Revitalization in Grove Park","published_date":"2021-10-25","featured_image":{"id":1735,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"fbwczlkwyammxue.jpeg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":673692,"resource_updated_at":"2021-10-26T10:54:32.605-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-10-26T10:54:32.874-04:00","updated_at":"2021-10-26T10:55:28.585-04:00","filename_hash":"fbwczlkwyammxue_E6KnE4q.jpeg","width":2064,"height":1376},"filename":"fifth-third-announces-20-million-neighborhood-investment-to-accelerate-revitalization-in-grove-park","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"w5B0nQ","created_at":"2021-10-26T10:55:28.515-04:00","updated_at":"2021-10-26T10:55:28.515-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Last week, Fifth Third Bank and Enterprise Community Partners announced the launch of a $180 million neighborhood program to accelerate revitalization in nine key majority-Black communities across seven states that have experienced disinvestment \u0026ndash; including Grove Park in Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLast week, Fifth Third Bank and Enterprise Community Partners announced the launch of a $180 million neighborhood program to accelerate revitalization in nine key majority-Black communities across seven states that have experienced disinvestment \u0026ndash; including Grove Park in Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFifth Third intends to commit up to $20 million in lending, investments, and philanthropic support, including grants from the Fifth Third Foundation to the Grove Park neighborhood. The investment will include $2 million in grants and $18 million in affordable financing from housing to small business loans.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The gift received by the Grove Park Foundation from Fifth Third Bank is a tremendous investment in the amazing residents of Grove Park and a vote of confidence to all who serve each day in this historic community,\u0026rdquo; said Gavin McKinney, executive director of the Grove Park Foundation. \u0026ldquo;It is a commitment to youth and families that says we believe in you and your dreams, and we want to provide adequate resources and support to make home ownership, starting a business and wealth building a reality.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe bank is collaborating with Enterprise Community Partners, a national nonprofit that exists to make a good home possible for millions of families without one. Together, they managed a criteria-based, invitation-only application process to select nine majority-Black neighborhoods that have seen a sustained period of disinvestment. Enterprise will provide technical assistance to support each neighborhood in developing and implementing a plan tailored to the unique challenges it faces. The national nonprofit will then assist with assessing the plan\u0026rsquo;s effectiveness at improving the economic well-being of residents and small locally owned businesses. Among other solutions, the program will include investments in small businesses, homeownership, and workforce development to create successful outcomes such as increased employment, economic stability, and growth.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOver a three-year period, the program will focus on organizations that create cross-sector partnerships to serve the communities within Fifth Third\u0026rsquo;s retail banking footprint.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":399,"title":"Sweet Auburn Continues to Thrive","promo_title":"Sweet Auburn Continues to Thrive","published_date":"2021-04-21","featured_image":{"id":1555,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2021-04-15_at_10.47.11_am.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2747812,"resource_updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:35:09.615-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-04-21T09:35:09.811-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:35:50.510-04:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2021-04-15_at_10.47.11_am_Qgr19Ek.png","width":2008,"height":1198},"filename":"sweet-auburn-continues-to-thrive","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"01XB5Q","created_at":"2021-04-21T09:35:50.482-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:35:50.482-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board has approved financing for new, permanent supportive housing geared toward those who are transitioning out of homelessness.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-d2a8f14b-7fff-b58b-dcd1-84ee55136ce9\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board has approved financing for new, permanent supportive housing geared toward those who are transitioning out of homelessness.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-d2a8f14b-7fff-b58b-dcd1-84ee55136ce9\"\u003eThe $950,000 grant from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund will help finance the construction of Thrive Sweet Auburn on Decatur Street, located near the King Memorial MARTA station, Grady Memorial Hospital and Georgia State University. The mixed-use, multifamily development will contain 117 mixed-income, affordable workforce housing units, as well as commercial space on the ground floor.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-d2a8f14b-7fff-b58b-dcd1-84ee55136ce9\"\u003eAccording to Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta, the Invest Atlanta Board previously approved an Eastside TAD grant to support the commercial portion of this project, but financing conditions and an unanticipated surge in construction costs required the developer to come back and request additional funding to complete the housing component. \u0026ldquo;Closing is imminent, and they hope to break ground and start construction in May,\u0026rdquo; said Ferguson. \u0026ldquo;These units will hopefully be available by August 2022.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-d2a8f14b-7fff-b58b-dcd1-84ee55136ce9\"\u003eAtlanta Housing is providing HomeFlex vouchers for 23 of the Thrive Sweet Auburn units, allowing those homebuyers to pay no more than 30% of their income towards their housing costs. These units also represent permanent supportive housing units for families transitioning out of homelessness. Other units will be available at 60% and 80% area median income (AMI).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":402,"title":"Preserving Affordable Housing","promo_title":"Preserving Affordable Housing","published_date":"2021-04-21","featured_image":{"id":1558,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"hollywood___big_bethel.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":817823,"resource_updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:55:30.208-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-04-21T09:55:30.261-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:55:45.717-04:00","filename_hash":"hollywood___big_bethel_V1amQ1N.png","width":1066,"height":460},"filename":"preserving-affordable-housing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"thKWdQ","created_at":"2021-04-21T09:55:45.692-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:55:45.692-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved financing for two affordable housing preservation projects, which together will rehabilitate a total of 232 units.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f3b7eb35-7fff-9cae-260d-2e548ec7b224\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved financing for two affordable housing preservation projects, which together will rehabilitate a total of 232 units.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f3b7eb35-7fff-9cae-260d-2e548ec7b224\"\u003eThe Board approved $11.25 million tax exempt bond financing for the acquisition and renovation of an existing 112-unit multifamily housing development on Hollywood Road in the Almond Park neighborhood. These units will all be targeted at 60% area median income (AMI) and below, and 81 of them also will be included in a housing assistance payment contract, which provides rental subsidies through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. These residents will pay no more than 30% of their income towards their housing costs.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f3b7eb35-7fff-9cae-260d-2e548ec7b224\"\u003eThe Board also approved $12.39 million tax exempt bond financing for the acquisition and rehabilitation of Big Bethel Village, an existing property on Richard Allen Boulevard in the Fairburn Mays neighborhood. This development is targeted towards seniors with 44 units being made available at 50% area median income (AMI), 59 units at 60% AMI and 17 units at market rate.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f3b7eb35-7fff-9cae-260d-2e548ec7b224\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;ve very excited to see the developer, National Church Residences, come back, refinance and reposition [Big Bethel Village] so they can maintain affordability and really improve and modernize the quality of the units going forward,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Renting\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":401,"title":"Tax Allocation District Grants to Improve Safety in Atlanta","promo_title":"Tax Allocation District Grants to Improve Safety in Atlanta","published_date":"2021-04-21","featured_image":{"id":1557,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"apf_2021.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1029124,"resource_updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:47:55.313-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-04-21T09:47:55.384-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:48:10.901-04:00","filename_hash":"apf_2021_qN6ark9.png","width":1066,"height":600},"filename":"tax-allocation-district-grants-to-improve-safety-in-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"A8cIZg","created_at":"2021-04-21T09:48:10.875-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:48:10.875-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Atlanta Police Foundation has been granted $2.378 million as part of an effort to increase public safety infrastructure, reduce crime and promote new development through a focus on\u0026nbsp;safety.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-b5e9f66c-7fff-17e0-1e9f-5fe62c6c0eac\"\u003eThe Atlanta Police Foundation has been granted $2.378 million as part of an effort to increase public safety infrastructure, reduce crime and promote new development through a focus on\u0026nbsp;safety.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-b5e9f66c-7fff-17e0-1e9f-5fe62c6c0eac\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;Having a strong sense of safety and security is a fundamental element of building healthy people and healthy communities,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-b5e9f66c-7fff-17e0-1e9f-5fe62c6c0eac\"\u003eThe funds, which were approved by the Invest Atlanta Board, will be distributed from seven Tax Allocation Districts (TADs), including the Campbellton Road TAD, Eastside TAD, Hollowell-ML King TAD, Metropolitan TAD, Perry Bolton TAD, Stadium TAD and Westside TAD.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-b5e9f66c-7fff-17e0-1e9f-5fe62c6c0eac\"\u003eThe funding will allow the Atlanta Police Foundation to install security cameras and license plate readers within the boundaries of the seven TADs, which will increase police visibility and feedback to the Operation Shield Video Integration Center, where Atlanta police officers have access to cameras in real-time.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-b5e9f66c-7fff-17e0-1e9f-5fe62c6c0eac\"\u003eAccording to Dave Wilkinson, president and CEO of the Atlanta Police Foundation, this investment is part of Mayor Bottoms\u0026rsquo; recently announced One Atlanta, One Atlanta Police Department (APD) plan. \u0026ldquo;This is an additional 250 cameras that will be installed throughout the city in what has been identified as priority-one hotspots by the Atlanta Police Department, city council members and community members,\u0026rdquo; said Wilkinson. \u0026ldquo;The impact of these cameras is really something special. They not only provide immediate deterrence through police visibility because the cameras go up with blue lights and signage, they also create immediate situational awareness for the police department when there is an incident or crime that\u0026rsquo;s just taken place, and they create great investigative value for the officers.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-b5e9f66c-7fff-17e0-1e9f-5fe62c6c0eac\"\u003eIn addition, studies indicate that security cameras contribute to a minimum of 20% reduction of crime in hotspots within the first year. The cameras will be installed within 90-100 days. \u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":400,"title":"Coming to the Capitol View Neighborhood: 1055 Arden","promo_title":"Coming to the Capitol View Neighborhood: 1055 Arden","published_date":"2021-04-21","featured_image":{"id":1556,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2021-04-15_at_11.17.15_am.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2369504,"resource_updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:40:03.681-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-04-21T09:40:03.772-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:42:16.749-04:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2021-04-15_at_11.17.15_am_ymaZLVb.png","width":1650,"height":1086},"filename":"coming-to-the-capitol-view-neighborhood-1055-arden","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"x3HvAg","created_at":"2021-04-21T09:42:16.719-04:00","updated_at":"2021-04-21T09:42:16.719-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A $1.47 million grant from the Beltline Tax Allocation District (TAD) Increment Fund has been approved by the Invest Atlanta Board for the construction of 58 multifamily housing units in the Capitol View neighborhood.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-0bc502d8-7fff-f332-f355-73370b1aa661\"\u003eA $1.47 million grant from the Beltline Tax Allocation District (TAD) Increment Fund has been approved by the Invest Atlanta Board for the construction of 58 multifamily housing units in the Capitol View neighborhood.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-0bc502d8-7fff-f332-f355-73370b1aa661\"\u003eLocated on 1055 Arden Ave., the development is a partnership between Prestwick Development Company and Atlanta Neighborhood Development Partnership, Inc. \u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m pleased to see this combination of mission-aligned groups of both for-profit and nonprofit organizations come together to sponsor this affordable workforce housing,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-0bc502d8-7fff-f332-f355-73370b1aa661\"\u003eThe development will be located adjacent to, and will complement, Gateway Capitol View, which is a senior housing project that was funded and financed by Invest Atlanta and the Beltline Affordable Housing Trust Fund.\u0026nbsp;It will feature full amenities, including job training and supportive services, as well as easy access to public transportation. There will be 28 units available at 50% area median income (AMI), 20 units at 60% AMI and 10 units at market rate.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":398,"title":"More Single-Family Affordable Housing Comes to Northwest Atlanta","promo_title":"More Single-Family Affordable Housing Comes to Northwest Atlanta","published_date":"2021-03-24","featured_image":{"id":1500,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2021-03-17_at_5.32.13_pm.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1045978,"resource_updated_at":"2021-03-24T15:36:03.975-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-03-24T15:36:04.044-04:00","updated_at":"2021-03-24T15:36:22.708-04:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2021-03-17_at_5.32.13_pm_1OD16Qw.png","width":1312,"height":1018},"filename":"more-single-family-affordable-housing-comes-to-northwest-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ls3F_Q","created_at":"2021-03-24T15:36:22.675-04:00","updated_at":"2021-03-24T15:36:22.675-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board has approved up to a $2.6 million forgivable loan from the Perry Bolton Tax Allocation District (TAD) to finance the acquisition and development of 40 single-family sites on a largely vacant property in Northwest Atlanta to ultimately create 65 homes in Grove Park, Carey Park and the surrounding area.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-a68bd477-7fff-8132-e843-74ce6a253b3d\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board has approved up to a $2.6 million forgivable loan from the Perry Bolton Tax Allocation District (TAD) to finance the acquisition and development of 40 single-family sites on a largely vacant property in Northwest Atlanta to ultimately create 65 homes in Grove Park, Carey Park and the surrounding area.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-a68bd477-7fff-8132-e843-74ce6a253b3d\"\u003eThe Urban Oasis Development and Invest Atlanta Land Trust acquired the 40 parcels throughout the Westside Park community for the development and construction of affordable housing units. The scattered site land acquisition and development will include a range of single-family housing options, including duplexes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with 30 of the 40 affordable units maintaining permanent affordability through the Atlanta Land Trust.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-a68bd477-7fff-8132-e843-74ce6a253b3d\"\u003eThe project is the result of concerns raised by local residents in the Westside Park community about displacement amid increasing development. Under the leadership of Terry Lee, chief operating officer/chief housing officer at Atlanta Housing, and Tim Keane, Atlanta City Planning Commissioner, the Westside Equitable Task Force was formed to advance anti-displacement efforts. Those efforts led to the recently adopted legislation for inclusionary zoning for this area, a down payment assistance program within the Perry Bolton TAD, as well as the creation of new affordable housing.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-a68bd477-7fff-8132-e843-74ce6a253b3d\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;This initiative represents how different agencies and the city can bring together policy, strategy and resources to address community concerns,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This grant allows Invest Atlanta to provide the capital to create this permanent affordable housing. And, in conjunction with down payment assistance products, as well as the legislation that\u0026rsquo;s been adopted, we hope to regain efforts to help fight displacement in this community.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-a68bd477-7fff-8132-e843-74ce6a253b3d\"\u003eUp to 65 units of new construction housing will be created \u0026ndash; a majority of which will be permanently affordable. Homebuyers at 80% area median income (AMI) and below purchasing the permanently affordable units are eligible for $20,000 in down payment assistance from the newly created and approved Perry Bolton TAD Mortgage Assistance Program while homebuyers over 80% and up to 120% AMI are eligible for $10,000 in down payment assistance.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Northwest\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":388,"title":"BE on Edgewood","promo_title":"BE on Edgewood","published_date":"2021-02-23","featured_image":{"id":1484,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2021-02-19_at_3.50.33_pm.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1017968,"resource_updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:41:47.025-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-02-23T16:41:47.176-05:00","updated_at":"2021-03-03T15:06:16.680-05:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2021-02-19_at_3.50.33_pm_jpewajY.png","width":2390,"height":1202},"filename":"be-on-edgewood","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"0LsTqQ","created_at":"2021-02-23T16:42:44.574-05:00","updated_at":"2021-03-03T15:06:16.618-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Edgewood and Sweet Auburn community will soon have a fully redeveloped community space that will house tenants like the National Center for Race Amity and a children\u0026rsquo;s theatre group.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe Edgewood and Sweet Auburn community will soon have a fully redeveloped community space that will house tenants like the National Center for Race Amity and a children\u0026rsquo;s theatre group.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-187f3ecb-7fff-0170-bf54-fb64492ec2dd\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a $1.45 million grant from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Community Empowerment Fund to finance the redevelopment of approximately 8,091 square feet of office and community space for local businesses and nonprofits.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAccording to Ashley Jones, assistant director of Commercial Development for Invest Atlanta,\u003c/span\u003e the building is in close proximity to the Atlanta Streetcar and will contribute to the revitalization of the Historic Sweet Auburn District. \u0026ldquo;It currently is an under-utilized space in\u0026nbsp;desperate need of repairs\u0026nbsp;that will be put back to good use,\u0026rdquo; said Jones. \u0026ldquo;The interior is in a raw form and will go through a complete gut and redevelopment.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-187f3ecb-7fff-0170-bf54-fb64492ec2dd\"\u003eThe building was constructed in 1941. When complete, it will contain 6,243 square feet of office space and 1,848 square feet of flexible community space. The primary focus of the project is to support community-oriented nonprofits and the surrounding neighborhood with quality, affordable space.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApproximately 2,500 square feet will be leased to the anchor tenant \u0026ndash; the National Center for Race Amity\u0026rsquo;s Atlanta office \u0026ndash; while the remaining office space will offer a collaborative environment for local businesses and nonprofits. The community space will be rented and leased for gatherings, readings, plays, a music venue, markets, speaker series and performances.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-187f3ecb-7fff-0170-bf54-fb64492ec2dd\"\u003eThe owner has committed to below-market rent for the 2,500-square-foot anchor tenant space, as well as 20% of additional leasable space to local nonprofits and small businesses at 20% below market value for 15 years.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAccording to Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta, this project continues the Edgewood Avenue corridor\u0026rsquo;s ongoing revitalization. \u0026ldquo;We are very excited about this development because it involves the historic renovation of an existing property, and we\u0026rsquo;re even more excited about its purpose,\u0026rdquo; said Ferguson. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s galvanizing this area and reinforcing its importance as a cultural center for racial equity and healing throughout the world.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":387,"title":"Grant Approved for Historic Prince Hall Masonic Lodge Renovation","promo_title":"Grant Approved for Historic Prince Hall Masonic Lodge Renovation","published_date":"2021-02-23","featured_image":{"id":1483,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2021-02-18_at_9.08.46_am.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":3527085,"resource_updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:32:18.567-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-02-23T16:32:19.174-05:00","updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:34:21.334-05:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2021-02-18_at_9.08.46_am_XJR8EE5.png","width":1790,"height":1218},"filename":"grant-approved-for-historic-prince-hall-masonic-lodge-renovation","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"_epH3g","created_at":"2021-02-23T16:34:21.300-05:00","updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:34:21.300-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The historic\u0026nbsp;Prince Hall Masonic Lodge building has been granted $1.5 million from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Community Empowerment Fund to finance its preservation and create space for small businesses.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-27f2054c-7fff-ff4b-e857-da8d00f92cc2\"\u003eThe historic\u003c/span\u003e Prince Hall Masonic Lodge building has been granted $1.5 million from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Community Empowerment Fund to finance its preservation and create space for small businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-27f2054c-7fff-ff4b-e857-da8d00f92cc2\"\u003eThe building, located at the corner of Auburn Avenue and Hilliard Street, was built in 1937 as a meeting and community space for the fraternal order. Through the years, it has housed several historical organizations, including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.\u0026rsquo;s personal Southern Christian Leadership Conference office, WERD Radio Station and Madame C.J. Walker Beauty School.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe building will be renovated into approximately 16,000 square feet of multi-use space. Once completed, the basement and first floor will be leased and operated by the National Park Service as an educational and interpretive exhibit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.\u0026rsquo;s office, while the second floor and Hilliard Street storefronts will be operated by local businesses. The current owner will continue to maintain a portion of the second floor and all of the third floor for organizational activities.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-27f2054c-7fff-ff4b-e857-da8d00f92cc2\"\u003eAccording to Ashley Jones, assistant director of Commercial Development for Invest Atlanta,\u003c/span\u003e the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge building is situated among a promising cluster of businesses and will preserve Sweet Auburn\u0026#39;s cultural legacy. \u0026ldquo;It really shows the improvement, change and direction of this district,\u0026rdquo; said Jones. \u0026ldquo;Other benefits include a close proximity to the Atlanta Streetcar and bus line, the reactivation of a historic building in this corridor and the ability to provide space to small businesses and nonprofits.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;I think all great cities respect and preserve their past,\u0026rdquo; said Invest Atlanta Board Member Bill Bozarth. \u0026ldquo;That\u0026rsquo;s what we\u0026rsquo;re doing here, and I think it\u0026rsquo;s commendable for us to be part of any opportunity we have.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInvest Atlanta Board Member Fred Smith agreed, saying: \u0026ldquo;On a monthly basis, we are investing in Sweet Auburn \u0026ndash; a site that is critical to our collective memory and also our imagination when it comes to our basic identity as a city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":385,"title":"2021 Housing Opportunity Bond Program Approved","promo_title":"2021 Housing Opportunity Bond Program Approved","published_date":"2021-01-26","featured_image":{"id":1474,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"impact___insights_2021_-12-.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":665956,"resource_updated_at":"2021-01-26T09:24:43.289-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-01-26T09:24:44.100-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-26T13:16:19.244-05:00","filename_hash":"impact___insights_2021_-12-_PgaqeoK.png","width":1000,"height":529},"filename":"2021-housing-opportunity-bond-program-approved","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"epDIFQ","created_at":"2021-01-26T09:25:12.394-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-26T13:16:19.198-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved the 2021 Housing Opportunity Bond Program, which includes $50 million Taxable Draw-Down Bonds and $100 million Taxable Revenue Bonds. This is the third and largest issuance of Housing Opportunity Bonds sponsored by the City of Atlanta to fund housing programs. Previous issuances were in 2007 and 2017, totaling $75 million.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-50f923a9-7fff-bc14-a4b4-d860921d05b1\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved the 2021 Housing Opportunity Bond Program, which includes $50 million Taxable Draw-Down Bonds and $100 million Taxable Revenue Bonds. This is the third and largest issuance of Housing Opportunity Bonds sponsored by the City of Atlanta to fund housing programs. Previous issuances were in 2007 and 2017, totaling $75 million.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;The Housing Opportunity Program has been very creative and prolific in terms of housing production in Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson\u003c/span\u003e, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Previous issuances have supported over 3,000 affordable housing units, and we expect that level of production and more with this issuance.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe majority of the capital will be allocated for projects and developments in the form of loans. As with previous Housing Opportunity Bond issuances, repayments to the loans are collected in a separate account and reallocated to support the needs of various programs \u0026ndash; such as additional down payment assistance and multifamily gap financing. \u0026ldquo;These funds will be recycled and will come back over time,\u0026rdquo; said Ferguson. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;ll use those proceeds to create additional units going forward.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInitially, this program was to be introduced in early 2020, about the time the pandemic hit. But\u0026nbsp; because of revenue uncertainty, it was placed on hold until another viable solution could be found. \u0026ldquo;This is a really big deal,\u0026rdquo; said Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms at a recent Invest Atlanta board meeting, \u0026ldquo;especially in the midst of where we are with the economy and the pandemic.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Homebuying/ Homeownership\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":386,"title":"Bohica Development to Further Redevelopment of the Eastside","promo_title":"Bohica Development to Further Redevelopment of the Eastside","published_date":"2021-01-26","featured_image":{"id":1475,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"impact___insights_2021_-13-.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":540610,"resource_updated_at":"2021-01-26T10:10:03.812-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-01-26T10:10:03.923-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-26T13:17:58.654-05:00","filename_hash":"impact___insights_2021_-13-_ymPpBjD.png","width":1000,"height":529},"filename":"bohica-development-to-further-redevelopment-of-the-eastside","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"lsyZ3g","created_at":"2021-01-26T10:11:19.525-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-26T13:17:58.630-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A new commercial restaurant space will be coming to 377 Edgewood Ave. with support from a $500,000 Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Resurgens Fund Grant. The grant will support the renovation, restoration and expansion of what originally was built as a Gulf gas station in 1940. The art modern-influenced building is currently boarded up and in a state of disrepair.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-558aded5-7fff-7340-6ce6-03f3f4492c1a\"\u003eA new commercial restaurant space will be coming to 377 Edgewood Ave. with support from a $500,000 Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Resurgens Fund Grant. The grant will support the renovation, restoration and expansion of what originally was built as a Gulf gas station in 1940. The art modern-influenced building is currently boarded up and in a state of disrepair.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDeveloper Bohica II, LLC will restore and expand the space to accommodate two potential restaurant concepts. The renovation will increase the space from 1,250 square feet to approximately 4,300 square feet, which includes the addition of a second story with a separate entrance. The renovation also will offer upgraded parking, a large street-side patio with a fireplace element, landscaping and new fencing. The ground floor will include an all-weather enclosed patio, and an upper-level deck will overlook the Atlanta skyline.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-558aded5-7fff-7340-6ce6-03f3f4492c1a\"\u003eThis project provides for economic development and historic preservation within the Martin Luther King Jr. Landmark District \u0026ndash; two key goals for the Eastside TAD.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":384,"title":"First Step Staffing: Celebrating Life \u0026 Continuing a Legacy with the Support of AEMI","promo_title":"First Step Staffing: Celebrating Life \u0026 Continuing a Legacy with the Support of AEMI","published_date":"2021-01-21","featured_image":{"id":1473,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"impact___insights_2021_-10-.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":711341,"resource_updated_at":"2021-01-21T16:10:45.552-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-01-21T16:10:45.613-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-26T09:28:58.143-05:00","filename_hash":"impact___insights_2021_-10-_NnDxOPD.png","width":1000,"height":529},"filename":"first-step-staffing-celebrating-life-continuing-a-legacy-with-the-support-of-aemi","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Dtj6YQ","created_at":"2021-01-21T16:11:29.488-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-26T09:28:58.111-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A recent study by the Atlanta Continuum of Care found that nearly 3,200 people experience homelessness in the city of Atlanta, but for the nonprofit workforce organization First Step Staffing, it\u0026rsquo;s more than transitioning people out of homelessness; it\u0026rsquo;s about placing them into permanent, reliable pathways to economic prosperity.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e8d773ce-7fff-3370-5ddd-584778392718\"\u003eA recent study by the Atlanta Continuum of Care found that nearly 3,200 people experience homelessness in the city of Atlanta, but for the nonprofit workforce organization First Step Staffing, it\u0026rsquo;s more than transitioning people out of homelessness; it\u0026rsquo;s about placing them into permanent, reliable pathways to economic prosperity.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFounded in 2007, First Step Staffing currently places approximately 1,100 (570 in Atlanta) homeless men and women, including veterans and those with criminal backgrounds, in contract job assignments at customer locations daily. Through partnering with organizations like United Way, Goodwill, and MUST Ministries, the agency is able to source workers and transition them into permanent members of the workforce.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFirst Step Staffing received a $2.8 million loan from Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI)\u0026rsquo;s Advantage Loan Fund in December 2015, which allowed the non-profit to acquire a larger for-profit staffing company and expand their services and impact. They have since\u003c/span\u003e expanded to Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Nashville, Orlando and New Jersey. The organization also received a $1 million loan from AEMI in 2019.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e8d773ce-7fff-3370-5ddd-584778392718\"\u003eGreg Block, founder and visionary of First Step Staffing, pioneered this model of purchasing for-profit staffing agencies and converting them to nonprofits under the First Step Staffing umbrella. Block, 54, passed away on August 14, 2020 due to cancer. Atlanta City Council proclaimed October 16 as \u0026ldquo;Greg Block Day\u0026rdquo; to commemorate the Atlanta leader. Amelia Nickerson assumed the role of CEO earlier this year.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;First Step sees income as a critical component on the path out of homelessness,\u0026rdquo; said Amelia Nickerson, CEO of First Step Staffing. \u0026ldquo;Greg believed that those experiencing homelessness were not hopeless, but rather heroes who just needed a hand up to succeed. We are grateful for partnerships with groups like AEMI which have helped First Step become the largest nonprofit staffing agency in the country.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe staffing agency currently employs over 3,500 clients in Atlanta and over 8,000 clients across all six locations annually, with intentions of growing to 4,000 and 12,000 employed respectively over the next few years.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026quot;Greg\u0026rsquo;s everlasting leadership and impact both locally and nationally reinforced the importance of investing in agencies like First Step Staffing,\u0026rdquo; said Stephen McRae, President of AEMI. \u0026ldquo;Their unique model and approach to combating homelessness and encouraging economic mobility aligns with AEMI\u0026rsquo;s guiding principles. We are honored to support Greg\u0026rsquo;s vision in serving others and lifting up others in our community.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn addition to providing career opportunities, First Step Staffing also offers coaching, transportation, housing placement, uniforms, mental health referrals, financial literacy, connection to training programs. Their \u0026ldquo;Second Step\u0026rdquo; program currently includes digital literacy, basic literacy, construction training, CDL and forklift certifications\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFirst Step Staffing\u0026rsquo;s corporate headquarters is located at 236 Auburn Avenue.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":374,"title":"Atlanta Mission to Open their First Low-Barrier Homeless Shelter with Help from AEMI","promo_title":"Atlanta Mission to Open their First Low-Barrier Homeless Shelter with Help from AEMI","published_date":"2021-01-04","featured_image":{"id":1454,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"atlanta_mission.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":219801,"resource_updated_at":"2021-01-04T14:20:12.021-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-01-04T14:20:12.645-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-04T14:20:36.059-05:00","filename_hash":"atlanta_mission_4XzR8oE.jpg","width":1500,"height":1000},"filename":"atlanta-mission-to-open-their-first-low-barrier-homeless-shelter-with-help-from-aemi","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"FnTI0w","created_at":"2021-01-04T14:04:30.503-05:00","updated_at":"2021-01-04T14:20:36.032-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u003cbr /\u003e\r\nOn December 10, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc., in partnership with Invest Atlanta, closed a $5.5 million New Markets Tax Credit transaction with the Atlanta Mission to support Restoration House, a new $19 million shelter facility for homeless women and children.\u0026nbsp;\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn December 10, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc., in partnership with Invest Atlanta, closed a $5.5 million New Markets Tax Credit transaction with the Atlanta Mission to support Restoration House, a new $19 million shelter facility for homeless women and children.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nLocated off Northside Drive, this low-barrier homeless shelter for women and children will serve over 1,200 individuals by providing 100 new shelter beds and critically important wrap-around services, including job training, childcare, and healthcare to Atlanta\u0026#39;s most vulnerable homeless population.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;Low-barrier\u0026rdquo; indicates that the shelter will accept all individuals as long as they are not a risk to themselves or others, whereas traditional shelters typically can only be accessed by individuals who meet restrictive admissions regulations such as sobriety, medication compliance, and identification.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nFounded in 1938, the Atlanta Mission is the oldest and largest provider of support services for metro Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s homeless. The organization served over 7,000 individuals last year alone, including 248,000 nights of shelter, 657,000 meals served, 153 clients connected with employment, and 154 connected with permanent housing.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Northwest\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":369,"title":"New Medical and Retail Development Comes to Southwest Atlanta","promo_title":"New Medical and Retail Development Comes to Southwest Atlanta","published_date":"2020-12-21","featured_image":{"id":1449,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2020-12-17_at_10.11.58_am.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2450319,"resource_updated_at":"2020-12-21T11:37:48.358-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-12-21T11:37:48.470-05:00","updated_at":"2020-12-21T11:46:44.516-05:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2020-12-17_at_10.11.58_am_LglqXZJ.png","width":2384,"height":942},"filename":"new-medical-and-retail-development-comes-to-southwest-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"QTXDug","created_at":"2020-12-21T11:46:44.486-05:00","updated_at":"2020-12-21T11:46:44.486-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved a $14 million lease-purchase bond to provide an operational subsidy for the Briarwood Medical Office and Commercial Retail development, as well as a $1.2 million grant from the Campbellton Road Tax Allocation District (TAD) to provide gap financing.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-9551da03-7fff-8a61-dce3-36c4979c3467\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a $14 million lease-purchase bond to provide an operational subsidy for the Briarwood Medical Office and Commercial Retail development, as well as a $1.2 million grant from the Campbellton Road Tax Allocation District (TAD) to provide gap financing.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe project will convert approximately six acres in Southwest Atlanta into a $13,039,818 development consisting of 30,000 square feet of medical office space and 17,000 square feet of commercial retail space.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Briarwood Medical Office and Commercial Retail project is part of an 11-acre development immediately across from Greenbriar Mall, which will eventually become a mixed-use district that also includes housing, commercial and other public amenities. It also provides necessary medical services and quality jobs to a census tract\u003c/span\u003e deemed as a Designated Health Professional Shortage Area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-9551da03-7fff-8a61-dce3-36c4979c3467\"\u003eAccording to Alan Ferguson\u003c/span\u003e, senior vice president of Community Development at\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta, the mixed-use development goes back to 2019 when Invest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta and partner agencies came together to identify potential projects that could be marketed for investment under the Better Opportunities Loan Program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-9551da03-7fff-8a61-dce3-36c4979c3467\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re now at the point to provide incentives to bring this project forth to construction and fruition,\u0026rdquo; said Ferguson. \u0026ldquo;We feel the delivery of these healthcare and medical services during a time of COVID-19 recovery will be essential for this area.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":370,"title":"New Affordable Housing Coming to Greenbriar Community","promo_title":"New Affordable Housing Coming to Greenbriar Community","published_date":"2020-12-21","featured_image":{"id":1450,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"greenbriar_developments.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":347461,"resource_updated_at":"2020-12-21T11:53:40.252-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-12-21T11:53:40.291-05:00","updated_at":"2020-12-21T11:54:59.625-05:00","filename_hash":"greenbriar_developments_1O7m2K2.png","width":600,"height":300},"filename":"new-affordable-housing-coming-to-greenbriar-community","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"VMza2Q","created_at":"2020-12-21T11:54:59.590-05:00","updated_at":"2020-12-21T11:54:59.590-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n District 11 and the Greenbriar neighborhood will soon have two new affordable housing developments \u0026ndash; one being a multifamily, mixed-income housing unit and another targeted for seniors.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-1b69d33a-7fff-6ef7-5936-5183e4723d2b\"\u003eDistrict 11 and the Greenbriar neighborhood will soon have two new affordable housing developments \u0026ndash; one being a multifamily, mixed-income housing unit and another targeted for seniors.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe construction of a new, 240-unit, multifamily, mixed-income housing development on Greenbriar Parkway was approved by the Invest Atlanta Board using a $29.5 million tax-exempt loan from the Urban Residential Finance Authority. Affordability ranges from 80% Area Median Income (AMI) to 50% AMI.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board also approved a $28.5 million tax-exempt loan for the construction of a new, 244-unit senior housing development on Greenbriar Parkway. Affordability ranges from 80% Area Median Income (AMI) to 50% AMI.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;We believe this level of income and this level of units will be tremendously beneficial in terms of supporting other services and retail within the Greenbriar corridor,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson\u003c/span\u003e, senior vice president of Community Development at\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This is a big day for District 11 and the Greenbriar area. It\u0026rsquo;s bringing a lot of rooftops and a lot of new quality housing to the community.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":365,"title":"Invest Atlanta Board Approves Two Small Business Improvement Grants ","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Board Approves Two Small Business Improvement Grants ","published_date":"2020-11-24","featured_image":{"id":1442,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"small_business_improvement_grants_.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1433538,"resource_updated_at":"2020-11-24T17:12:59.157-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-11-24T17:12:59.237-05:00","updated_at":"2020-11-24T17:13:23.035-05:00","filename_hash":"small_business_improvement_grants__vlpZDQx.png","width":1080,"height":905},"filename":"invest-atlanta-board-approves-two-small-business-improvement-grants","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"1PLX7w","created_at":"2020-11-24T17:13:23.007-05:00","updated_at":"2020-11-24T17:13:23.007-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Two commercial properties are each receiving up to $20,000 of improvement funds from the Hollowell/ML King Tax Allocation District (TAD) Small Business Improvement Grant.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eTwo commercial properties are each receiving up to $20,000 of improvement funds from the Hollowell/ML King Tax Allocation District (TAD) Small Business Improvement Grant.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f7285188-7fff-8a10-824e-874116a2f717\"\u003eThe building owned by Cal Properties, located on James Jackson Parkway, is a 13,125-square-foot, multiple tenant commercial center built in 2000. The structure includes eight storefronts currently occupied by seven tenants, including a beauty supply store, salon, barbershop, convenience store, social club, natural food store and a clothing store.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe grant will help complete necessary improvements such as repainting the exterior of the building and repairing the parking lot. Additional owner funds, including the required 20 percent match, will pay for security cameras around the property and landscaping.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-f7285188-7fff-8a10-824e-874116a2f717\"\u003eA. Lawson Auto Center on Donald Lee Hollowell is a 2,500-square-foot auto service garage that\u0026rsquo;s been in business for more than half a century. The son and daughter of the original owners have grown the family business over the past 16 years to include Lawson\u0026rsquo;s Florist, HA Lawson Tax \u0026amp; Office Services and Lawson Auto Sales.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrant funds will be used for the removal and replacement of damaged asphalt in front of the building and additional owner funds will pay for tree stump and root systems removal on the west side of the property.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInvest Atlanta launched the Small Business Improvement Grant in 2019 to strengthen local businesses by using tax increment for matching grants toward the improvement of commercial buildings.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;Helping our small businesses grow and thrive enhances economic development,\u0026rdquo; says Alan Ferguson\u003c/span\u003e, senior vice president of Community Development at\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This is one of the initiatives we\u0026rsquo;re promoting in terms of economic mobility and equity and inclusion within the city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n MLK Corridor\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":359,"title":"Additional EPA Brownfield Funding Approved to Develop Pullman Yard ","promo_title":"Additional EPA Brownfield Funding Approved to Develop Pullman Yard ","published_date":"2020-10-19","featured_image":{"id":980,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"pullman_yards_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1331563,"resource_updated_at":"2019-08-15T13:42:17.428-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":4,"created_at":"2019-08-15T13:42:17.583-04:00","updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:53:27.002-04:00","filename_hash":"pullman_yards_insight_W14ZmJo.png","width":1200,"height":587},"filename":"additional-epa-brownfield-funding-approved-to-develop-pullman-yard","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"lNEWPg","created_at":"2020-10-19T13:53:26.974-04:00","updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:53:26.974-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board has approved an additional $200,000 in Brownfield Loan Fund grants for Atomic Entertainment Development, LLC to clean up Pullman Yard, located on Rogers Street in northwest Atlanta. This brings the total loan from $950,000 to $1,150,000, which is funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board has approved an additional $200,000 in Brownfield Loan Fund grants for Atomic Entertainment Development, LLC to clean up Pullman Yard, located on Rogers Street in northwest Atlanta. This brings the total loan from $950,000 to $1,150,000, which is funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtomic Entertainment Development conducted multiple environmental site assessments and requested more funds to compensate for additional asbestos that was uncovered, an increase in cost of materials and the need to add two new sets of buildings to the project for clean-up. Previous assessments identified Asbestos Containing Material and Lead Based Paint in the site\u0026rsquo;s industrial buildings.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 27-acre Pullman Yard site in Kirkwood was the site of an active manufacturing facility starting in 1904. From the 1920s to the 1950s, Pullman Rail Car Company operated a repair and storage yard at the site. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the site was severely underused. The State of Georgia acquired the site and, for the last 30 years, it has remained inactive.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2017, Atomic Entertainment purchased the site, including the historically significant industrial buildings, associated small structures and paved areas through a public bid. It intends to remediate and redevelop the property for a mixed-used entertainment and arts district in five phases. The first phase will focus on remediating and redeveloping existing buildings for commercial uses, such as film production, office and mixed-income residential. Other areas of the property will be redeveloped into wellness facilities, dining and open and entertainment spaces.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This will become an excellent mixed-use entertainment and arts district,\u0026rdquo; says Nathan Regan, senior vice president of Economic Development for\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;The site is decrepit at the moment, but the historical buildings will be beautiful once they are remediated.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Northwest\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":357,"title":"Relief Coming to Mechanicsville Retail Property Owner: $20,000 TAD Grant for Renovations","promo_title":"Relief Coming to Mechanicsville Retail Property Owner: $20,000 TAD Grant for Renovations","published_date":"2020-10-19","featured_image":{"id":1409,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2020-10-14_at_11.54.25_am.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1283397,"resource_updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:28:55.676-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-10-19T13:28:55.766-04:00","updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:30:32.815-04:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2020-10-14_at_11.54.25_am_vlxxLyW.png","width":2462,"height":1448},"filename":"relief-coming-to-mechanicsville-retail-property-owner-20000-tad-grant-for-renovations","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Zr2bPw","created_at":"2020-10-19T13:30:32.761-04:00","updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:30:32.761-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A $20,000 grant from the Stadium Tax Allocation District (TAD) will help rehabilitate a 4,280-square-foot, multiple-occupancy retail commercial property in the Mechanicsville neighborhood on Pryor Street, which was damaged by heavy rain in 2018.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA $20,000 grant from the Stadium Tax Allocation District (TAD) will help rehabilitate a 4,280-square-foot, multiple-occupancy retail commercial property in the Mechanicsville neighborhood on Pryor Street, which was damaged by heavy rain in 2018.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eStadium TAD funds will be used for window replacement on the property, and insurance proceeds will cover the cost of roof and gutter replacement. The owner\u0026rsquo;s required 20% contribution, plus additional owner equity, will provide funding for a full interior rehabilitation of the three units, including replacing damaged drywall, ceiling tiles and flooring.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe owner also received Annie E. Casey NPU V Small Business Improvement Grant funds to paint the building\u0026rsquo;s exterior.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re encouraged and excited about the uptick in these kinds of projects using TAD dollars to impact small businesses and small commercial redevelopment,\u0026rdquo; says Jennifer Fine, vice president of Planning \u0026amp; Strategic Initiatives for Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Word of mouth is raising awareness of this program, and people are tapping into this resource.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":352,"title":"Financing Approved to Renovate and Develop Affordable Housing","promo_title":"Financing Approved to Renovate and Develop Affordable Housing","published_date":"2020-09-21","featured_image":{"id":1380,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"sept_board_affordable_housing_update.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":443242,"resource_updated_at":"2020-09-21T13:28:51.359-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-09-21T13:28:51.403-04:00","updated_at":"2020-09-23T13:31:24.885-04:00","filename_hash":"sept_board_affordable_housing_update_qNDV52l.png","width":600,"height":400},"filename":"financing-approved-to-renovate-and-develop-affordable-housing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"IPkpJg","created_at":"2020-09-21T13:29:10.474-04:00","updated_at":"2020-09-23T13:31:24.862-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for Town West Manor and City Lights II \u0026ndash; two housing projects that will build and renovate almost 200 units of affordable housing.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2000","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for Town West Manor and City Lights II \u0026ndash; two housing projects that will build and renovate almost 200 units of affordable housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eTown West Manor\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a $13,000,000 Tax Exempt Loan Bond Resolution for the acquisition and rehabilitation of 108 units of multifamily housing in Council District 10.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLocated at 330 Brownlee Rd.,Towne West Manor is an existing multifamily complex. Upgrades will include replacing heating units and A/Cs, pole lights, outdated smoke detectors and upgrading kitchen units.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe current design and unit mix are garden style and townhome. Amenities include a central laundry facility, washer/dryer connections, picnic area and access to public transportation. There are five units at or below 50% Area Median Income (AMI), 98 units at or below 60% and five units at or below 70% AMI.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003eCity Lights II\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Atlanta Development Authority received financing approval for the construction of a new, five-story building in the Old Fourth Ward community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCity Lights will be easily accessible and conveniently located near several MARTA bus stops, restaurants and the Historic Fourth Ward Park. It will have 88 units of multifamily housing \u0026ndash; all of which will be at 60% Area Median Income or below.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eProperty amenities will include a community room, fitness center, business center with computer stations, private courtyard, after-school program, central laundry facility on each floor and access to public transportation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2020 to date, Invest Atlanta has closed 10 multifamily housing transactions that will create 1,016 affordable housing units in neighborhoods where additional housing options are needed.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Renting\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Old Fourth Ward\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":351,"title":"Predevelopment Loan Fund Helps Small Developers in Eastside TAD","promo_title":"Predevelopment Loan Fund Helps Small Developers in Eastside TAD","published_date":"2020-09-21","featured_image":{"id":298,"parent_id":15,"resource_file_name":"eastside_tad_map_wide.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":497156,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:59:16.221-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2017-12-21T13:59:16.422-05:00","updated_at":"2024-12-18T11:11:32.740-05:00","filename_hash":"eastside_tad_map_wide_4X3JrB7.jpg","width":1880,"height":720},"filename":"predevelopment-loan-fund-helps-small-developers-in-eastside-tad","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"IOgGHw","created_at":"2020-09-21T11:48:44.541-04:00","updated_at":"2020-09-21T11:48:44.541-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors authorized $1.5 million in funding from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Increment to establish a Predevelopment Assistance Fund to support residential and commercial real estate development within the Eastside TAD.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors authorized $1.5 million in funding from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Increment to establish a Predevelopment Assistance Fund to support residential and commercial real estate development within the Eastside TAD.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe program is intended to help small developers and property owners, outside the Sweet Auburn TAD, seeking to develop or significantly rehabilitate residential, commercial and mixed-use properties. The fund will help secure capital needed to complete the work necessary to bring projects to a level of financing viability.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThere currently is a predevelopment assistance fund in the Eastside TAD dedicated to development in the Sweet Auburn Corridor. This program will serve the remainder of the TAD.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Alan Ferguson, Senior Vice President of Community Development at\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta, there have been several requests from property owners and developers who want to activate their property. \u0026ldquo;The fund is designed to help small investors and developers activate their properties and fill in those final steps from a technical side to advance their projects from idea and concept and bring them into fruition,\u0026rdquo; says Ferguson. \u0026ldquo;This will be a new solution to assist those developers and projects.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe program, which mirrors aspects of similar programs launched within the Campbellton Road TAD, the Perry-Bolton TAD and the Westside TAD, will provide funding to for-profit and nonprofit developers and property owners with annualized revenues less than $2 million and less than 50 employees to advance their projects towards construction and development. Funding will support feasibility and financial analysis, design and cost estimation services.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":350,"title":"Two Atlanta Brownfield Projects Get the Greenlight","promo_title":"Two Atlanta Brownfield Projects Get the Greenlight","published_date":"2020-09-21","featured_image":{"id":1379,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"board_brownfield_image.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":251545,"resource_updated_at":"2020-09-21T11:32:42.106-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-09-21T11:32:42.670-04:00","updated_at":"2020-09-23T13:30:19.170-04:00","filename_hash":"board_brownfield_image_ZOnQjQ9.png","width":600,"height":200},"filename":"two-atlanta-brownfield-projects-get-the-greenlight","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"85vjKg","created_at":"2020-09-21T11:35:55.558-04:00","updated_at":"2020-09-23T13:30:19.148-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At the September 2020 meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors awarded two Brownfield Loan Fund (BRLF) grants \u0026ndash; one to The Conservation Fund for the Paul Avenue Project and another to Trees Atlanta for the Warner Avenue Project.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt the\u0026nbsp;September 2020 meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors awarded two Brownfield Loan Fund (BRLF) grants \u0026ndash; one to The Conservation Fund for the Paul Avenue Project and another to Trees Atlanta for the Warner Avenue Project.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA brownfield is a property whose expansion, reuse or redevelopment may be complicated by the presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. Not only do brownfields contribute to potential health risks and environmental contamination, they also act as a barrier between communities and limit the full tax value of properties.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe BRLF is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). After the City of Atlanta received an initial $1 million in 2009, the EPA awarded another $1.9 million in supplemental funding.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePaul Avenue Project\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Conservation Fund, a national nonprofit focused on land and water conservation, received an $80,000 brownfield clean-up sub-grant grant for the remediation of 0 Paul Avenue, located in the Riverside Neighborhood of NPU D and in Council District 9.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 0.2-acre parcel, along with other adjoining parcels on Paul Avenue, will become a 10-acre park owned and managed by the City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation Department.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe clean-up will allow the conversion of a contaminated site into a future public asset for the community that includes a new greenspace for the Riverside neighborhood, while also creating key trail connections for both the Whetstone Creek Trail and the future Chattahoochee River Trail. This project is also a key part of the larger Riverwalk Vision located in the Northwest Atlanta and Chattahoochee area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is a real win for the city,\u0026rdquo; says Nathan Regan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;We are excited about the ability to clean up this site and view this as another way to make Atlanta a better and more attractive place to live.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWarner Avenue Project\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTrees Atlanta Inc. was awarded a $150,000 brownfield clean-up sub-grant for 825 Warner Street in Fulton County. The property includes approximately 2.9 acres of land and is developed with a one-story, 23,000-square-foot warehouse building constructed in 1952.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBefore acquiring the property in July 2019, Trees Atlanta filed for a limit of liability protection under the Georgia Brownfield Act. A provisional limit of liability was issued to Trees Atlanta by the Georgia EPD for concerns of lead in the soil.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs a result of this clean-up project, the Trees Atlanta Urban Ecology Center will have indoor and outdoor programming, including a 21,000 square-foot facility for office spaces, community education spaces, as well as storage and workspace for tree planting implementation. Office space for other community-based nonprofits also will be available in the building.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;What\u0026rsquo;s really amazing about this project is that it\u0026rsquo;s currently an industrial site,\u0026rdquo; says Nathan Regan, Senior Vice President of Economic Development\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This grant will allow Trees Atlanta to remediate the site and turn it into a better use for the community and the city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Northwest\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":345,"title":"Coming Soon to Sweet Auburn: Community Office Space Empowered by the Eastside TAD Grant","promo_title":"Affordable Community Office Space Coming to Sweet Auburn","published_date":"2020-08-26","featured_image":{"id":1370,"parent_id":1,"resource_file_name":"thrive_4.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":130899,"resource_updated_at":"2020-08-26T12:47:40.973-04:00","caption":"Thrive Sweet Auburn","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2020-08-26T12:47:41.008-04:00","updated_at":"2020-08-26T13:02:40.789-04:00","filename_hash":"thrive_4_8mgkz42.jpg","width":1207,"height":713},"filename":"coming-soon-to-sweet-auburn-community-office-space-empowered-by-the-eastside-tad-grant","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Wtp4yg","created_at":"2020-08-26T12:49:03.122-04:00","updated_at":"2020-08-26T13:02:40.756-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta recently approved a $715,000 from the Eastside TAD (Tax Allocation District) Community Empowerment Fund to finance Thrive Sweet Auburn. This new construction mixed-use development will provide a co-work office facility within the community for critically needed non-profit services and community-serving small businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLocated at 302-284 Decatur Street, one block west of the King Memorial MARTA station, the developer Project Community Connections, Inc. (PCCI) will create approximately 15,577 square feet of new office space and 117 affordable rental units. TAD funding will assist in building out the office spaces.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe hybrid-office space includes a combination of leasable offices, desks and flexible workspace, all supported by amenities such as reservable conference rooms and a small media studio.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn July, the board also approved Eastside TAD funding for renovations on another community space located at \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/eastside-tad-financing-approved-for-community-of-hospitality-properties-on-edgewood-ave\"\u003e458 and 460 Edgewood Avenue\u003c/a\u003e. With the Eastside TAD funding guidelines requiring that a percentage of below-market, for-rent commercial spaces be available, these projects demonstrate the City\u0026rsquo;s commitment to creating affordable office space for local and disadvantaged businesses as part of its economic mobility initiative. Learn more about these projects \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/developers/opportunities-incentives/tax-allocation-district-financing/eastside\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Sweet Auburn\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":339,"title":"Eastside TAD Financing Approved for Community of Hospitality Properties on Edgewood Ave.","promo_title":"Eastside TAD Financing Approved for Community of Hospitality","published_date":"2020-07-28","featured_image":{"id":1300,"parent_id":1,"resource_file_name":"107930547_3475903339109226_3754347603439383978_o.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":70413,"resource_updated_at":"2020-07-28T16:47:57.342-04:00","caption":"Community of Hospitality","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2020-07-28T16:47:57.380-04:00","updated_at":"2020-07-28T16:50:30.701-04:00","filename_hash":"107930547_3475903339109226_3754347603439383978_o_OPEyWR6.jpg","width":1080,"height":634},"filename":"eastside-tad-financing-approved-for-community-of-hospitality-properties-on-edgewood-ave","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"1AWQKw","created_at":"2020-07-28T16:49:37.961-04:00","updated_at":"2020-07-28T16:50:30.653-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eAt its July board meeting, Invest Atlanta approved financing from the Eastside TAD (Tax Allocation District) Community Empowerment Fund up to $320,000 to fund the building renovation of 458 and 460 Edgewood Avenue.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe renovation of the adjoining properties would create 6,600 square feet of affordable retail and office space for non-profit and social impact users. The properties are owned by Community of Hospitality (COH), an intentional, faith-based organization committed to the service of others by traditionally serving the homeless and now, via this project, cultivating socially-oriented small businesses and nonprofits to further their missions.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCOH is most known for its work at the property through Caf\u0026eacute; 458, a restaurant concept that provided employment and a safe space for meals for homeless residents. The property was also home to the organization\u0026rsquo;s signature program The Edge, which provided comprehensive support services for homeless people seeking work.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e458 Edgewood is a 2,000-square-foot single-story building built in 1940, comprised of a commercial kitchen and dining area. COH intends to activate the space with a social-impact food and beverage provider focused on economic and creative empowerment. 460 Edgewood is approximately 4,600 square feet split between two floors. The ground floor will house community meeting space and private offices, with the second floor containing eight offices and a common collaborative area. Programming of the collaborative area will include community empowerment programming, educational and vocational classes, skills sharing, and community organizing.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn accordance with the Eastside TAD funding guidelines, 20 percent of leasable square footage\u0026nbsp;will be restricted to rents that are equal to or less than 20 percent of the area\u0026rsquo;s market rate.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":320,"title":"First Small Business Improvement Grant Approved for Commercial Property in Mechanicsville ","promo_title":"Talon Plumbing to receive first Small Business Improvement Grant ","published_date":"2020-02-24","featured_image":{"id":1107,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"istock-929926146.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":5775286,"resource_updated_at":"2020-02-25T17:59:01.571-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-02-25T17:59:02.448-05:00","updated_at":"2020-02-25T18:00:58.899-05:00","filename_hash":"istock-929926146_eXjDkv3.jpg","width":3835,"height":2597},"filename":"first-small-business-improvement-grant-approved-for-commercial-property-in-mechanicsville","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"SnlLLQ","created_at":"2020-02-24T11:46:21.348-05:00","updated_at":"2020-02-25T18:00:58.860-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors has approved the first allocation from the Small Business Improvement Grant, a new program launched in November 2019.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTalon Plumbing Services, LLC, located at 730 Pryor Street SW, will receive an amount up to $20,000 to finance improvements to its commercial property in the Stadium Neighborhoods TAD and Mechanicsville neighborhood. It will also receive an amount up to $10,000 from the NPU V Small Business Improvement Grant program to finance additional improvements to the property. The NPU V Small Business Improvement Grant program was created in partnership with the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Talon Plumbing Services, LLC, recently relocated from Dekalb County to the city of Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta launched the Small Business Improvement Grant to utilize available tax increment to strengthen local businesses by providing matching grants toward the improvement of commercial buildings.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDetails of the program can be found\u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/small-business-improvement-grants\"\u003e here\u003c/a\u003e.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":316,"title":"TAD Funds Allocated to Help Provide School-Adjacent Affordable Rental Housing in English Ave. ","promo_title":"TAD Funds to Provide School-Adjacent Affordable Rentals","published_date":"2020-01-23","featured_image":{"id":1090,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"oaksatl.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":221173,"resource_updated_at":"2020-01-22T16:32:24.268-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2020-01-22T16:32:24.761-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-28T11:37:42.785-05:00","filename_hash":"oaksatl_5EjDpwx.jpg","width":1555,"height":798},"filename":"tad-funds-allocated-to-help-provide-school-adjacent-affordable-rental-housing-in-english-ave","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"0fMs-A","created_at":"2020-01-23T08:37:15.351-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-23T12:21:18.263-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn January, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors supported plans for oaksATL Community Development, Inc. to renovate sixteen multi-family apartment units in English Avenue. Two vacant buildings will be redeveloped by the nonprofit development company in order to provide affordable rental housing adjacent to Peace Preparatory Academy.\u0026nbsp; oaksATL, in conjunction with Peace Preparatory Academy, will receive a grant of up to $500,000 from the Westside TAD Community Improvement Fund to help finance the project.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRandy Hazelton, the vice chair of the IA Board,\u003ca\u003e \u003c/a\u003eshared his support of the project, saying: \u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;ve had the privilege to work alongside oaksATL, to see the amazing work they\u0026rsquo;re doing.\u0026rdquo; The mission of oaksATL and Peace Preparatory Academy is to address the relationship between housing stability and community well-being by providing access to quality education, safe and affordable housing, and proximity to parks and employment. Currently, the school has 60 students spanning pre-kindergarten through fourth grade and plans to continue to expand through 12\u003csup\u003eth\u003c/sup\u003e grade. Families, who come from English Avenue, Vine City, and adjacent neighborhoods, pay tuition on a sliding scale through the assistance of individual, foundation, and corporate donors.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eContinued Hazelton, \u0026ldquo;This is an organization where their actions \u0026ndash; everything they say they\u0026rsquo;re going to do \u0026ndash; they do.\u0026nbsp; When you talk about building deep and true affordability in an area like English Avenue, where most of the residents feel forgotten about, it\u0026rsquo;s just incredible.\u0026nbsp; These are the type of projects that we have to continue to fund.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe two buildings, currently blighted and in disrepair, are located at 891 North Ave NW and 551 Lindsay Street NW. Post renovations, North Avenue will provide ten two-bedroom apartments; Lindsay Street will offer six two-bedroom units. The renovations will include new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, exterior doors and windows, and interior finishes. Additionally, the new buildings will receive exterior fa\u0026ccedil;ade and site improvements.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eUnder the terms of the Westside TAD, oaksATL will offer the rental units at a deep level of affordability.\u0026nbsp; At least half of the apartments will be available at or below 50% Area Median Income (AMI).\u0026nbsp; The remaining units will be kept at or below 80% AMI.\u0026nbsp; The compliance period for maintaining this affordability is twenty years.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":315,"title":"Invest Atlanta Board Supports the Construction of Stanton Park Apartments, Including 56 Affordable Housing Units","promo_title":"Additional Affordable Housing Coming to Peoplestown","published_date":"2020-01-17","featured_image":{"id":1089,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"stanton_park.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":187088,"resource_updated_at":"2020-01-17T09:17:31.605-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-01-17T09:17:31.648-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-17T09:23:17.831-05:00","filename_hash":"stanton_park_jpaboyV.jpg","width":1044,"height":529},"filename":"invest-atlanta-board-supports-stanton-park-apartments","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"9iXJfg","created_at":"2020-01-17T09:19:57.389-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-17T09:23:17.810-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe board of Invest Atlanta has approved a loan of up to $2 million in Beltline tax allocation district (TAD) funding to finance the construction of 56 affordable multifamily housing units\u0026nbsp;on Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s south side.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eStanton Park Apartments, developed by Woda Cooper Company, Inc. and Parallel Housing, Inc., will be located at the corner of Boynton Avenue and Hank Aaron Drive.\u0026nbsp; Woda Cooper Companies is responsible for two other affordable housing developments in the area.\u0026nbsp; \u003ca href=\"https://beltline.org/2016/09/29/a-warm-welcome-home-to-stanton-oaks/\"\u003eStanton Oaks\u003c/a\u003e, completed in 2016, renovated the former Boynton Village apartments into 43 units of multifamily housing in Peoplestown. Most recently, in November 2019, Adair Court, opened in southwest Atlanta near the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail. \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/adair-court-senior-mixed-income-community-opens-near-westside-atlanta-beltline-trail\"\u003eAdair Court\u003c/a\u003e is a 91-unit mixed-income rental community geared toward seniors aged 55 years and above.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eStanton Park Apartments will also offer affordable housing options. Of the 56 units, 44 will be set aside for individuals earning at or below 60 percent area mean income (AMI). Invest Atlanta Board of Directors member Fred Smith remarked, \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s great to see the income averaging in this project.\u0026nbsp; Folks of different income ranges will be living together.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnother exciting component of the project is that it takes an innovative approach to address homelessness.\u0026nbsp; Developers collaborated with Partners for HOME, a nonprofit which manages the Atlanta continuum of care for homeless services, to help with providing funding for the units set aside for individuals earning less than 30 percent AMI.\u0026nbsp; Said Smith, \u0026ldquo;This is the second project we\u0026rsquo;ve seen where the Partners for Home component of homelessness is built into it, and that\u0026rsquo;s fantastic.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAmenities on the property will include a community room, business center with computer stations, basketball court, and a central laundry facility.\u0026nbsp; Additionally, Stanton Park Apartments is conveniently located near public transportation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFinancing partners for Stanton Park Apartments include URFA (tax-exempt loan), ADA (Beltline TAD), DCA (tax credits), CREA (federal/state LIHTC investor), Merchants Capital (construction and permanent lender), and Partners for HOME (Atlanta HomeFirst grant).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":314,"title":"Herndon Square to bring 97 units of affordable seniors housing to English Avenue neighborhood","promo_title":"Herndon Square Affordable Housing Development Underway","published_date":"2020-01-08","featured_image":{"id":1081,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"herndon_square.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":6660608,"resource_updated_at":"2020-01-08T16:57:56.928-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-01-08T16:57:57.591-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-08T17:08:05.933-05:00","filename_hash":"herndon_square_OPMVrM9.jpg","width":4608,"height":3456},"filename":"herndon-square-affordable-housing-development-underway","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"M6Kojg","created_at":"2020-01-08T17:02:30.806-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-08T17:08:05.914-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2000","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn January 7, 2020, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms joined Atlanta Housing, Invest Atlanta, and other city officials to break ground on the first phase of the highly anticipated Herndon Square project. The $23.9 million, 97-unit development will offer affordable housing to seniors above the age of 62, as well as bringing additional economic activity and jobs to the Westside.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is an historic day for Atlanta, the Westside and the English Avenue community,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;Thank you to Atlanta Housing and all of our partners for investing in our communities and understanding the importance of alleviating the burden associated with a lack of affordable housing. This Administration will utilize every available tool and resource to continue to create quality, affordable housing for all who call Atlanta home.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hunt Companies and Oakwood Development Group project will be located in the English Avenue neighborhood at 464 Cameron Madison Alexander Blvd. The first phase of Herndon Square will consist of 87 one-bedroom/one-bath apartments and 10 two-bedroom/two-bath apartments, as well as greenspace and retail space.\u0026nbsp; Residents will pay no more than 30 percent of their income towards rent, as 100 percent of the units are covered under a HomeFlex Contract with Atlanta Housing. Amenities will include card access at entry points, health and business centers, and a fitness center.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe future four phases of the project will include varying percentages of market-rate and affordable units. The last phase will consist of 32 for-sale townhome units, seven of which will be available for residents earning less than 120% AMI (area median income).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn remarks, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s CEO, Eloisa Klementich, noted that Mayor Bottoms, in her role as Invest Atlanta board chair, is \u0026ldquo;setting the tone\u0026rdquo; for Invest Atlanta to continue to find more opportunities to create affordable housing through equitable development projects.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta supported Herndon Square through $12.4 million in tax-exempt bond financing. Other financing parties include the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the Westside Future Fund, Hunt Capital Partners, and Atlanta Housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":313,"title":"Ron Clark Academy to Receive an $8 Million New Markets Tax Credit Allocation","promo_title":"AEMI Supports New Performing Arts Center for Youth in South Atlanta","published_date":"2020-01-07","featured_image":{"id":1080,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"ron_clark_academy_photo.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":768614,"resource_updated_at":"2020-01-07T19:47:21.304-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-01-07T19:47:21.475-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-08T09:19:44.672-05:00","filename_hash":"ron_clark_academy_photo_MYEapYR.jpg","width":2304,"height":1536},"filename":"aemi-supports-new-performing-arts-center-for-youth-in-south-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"E5s-dQ","created_at":"2020-01-07T19:51:44.587-05:00","updated_at":"2020-01-08T09:19:44.639-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI), a U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Entity created by Invest Atlanta, officially closed an $8 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) transaction supporting the \u003ca href=\"http://ronclarkacademy.com/\"\u003eRon Clark Academy\u003c/a\u003e (RCA).\u0026nbsp; SunTrust, now Truist, was the investment partner on this project.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe NMTC allocation will assist with the construction of the new 42,000-square-foot state-of-the-art Ryan Marshall Performing Arts Center, which will expand the existing school building both for student activities as well as for RCA\u0026rsquo;s teacher training programs. As a result, the school will be able to serve an additional 30 students annually and train an additional 2,500 teachers annually, increases which will help make the school 100 percent financially sustainable as well as subsidize tuition for students from households earning less than $30,000 annually. The $23 million expansion will also create seven new full-time positions.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nLocated in South Atlanta in a formerly vacant warehouse, RCA is an innovative nonprofit middle school and teacher training facility founded in 2007 by Ron Clark and Kim Bearden, both award-winning educators. Stated on its website, RCA\u0026rsquo;s mission is to: \u0026ldquo;Deliver the highest quality educational experience where global citizens are born through advanced rigor, engaging teaching methods, and a passionate climate and culture.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAEMI specializes in providing gap financing for projects that create jobs and revitalize Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s distressed neighborhoods. \u0026nbsp;South Atlanta qualifies as \u0026ldquo;highly distressed\u0026rdquo; based on the 2011 \u0026ndash; 2015 American Community Survey with a median family income of 31.84 percent of the area median income, a poverty rate of 40.9 percent, and an unemployment rate of 20.8 percent (2.5 times the national average).\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nCurrently, the school teaches 150 children in grades fourth through eighth and offers a sliding tuition scale to assist families of all socioeconomic backgrounds. As a result of the school\u0026rsquo;s huge success (100 percent graduation rate with 95 percent of its graduates attending college or enlisting in the military), the RCA developed the \u0026ldquo;Ron Clark Experience,\u0026rdquo; for outside educators to learn about the school\u0026rsquo;s unique techniques and practices. The registration fees for the training program help cover student tuitions and enable 14,500 teachers to come from around the globe and train at the school each year.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":311,"title":"The Front Porch to Add Affordable Housing, Retail and Community Space to Sweet Auburn","promo_title":"The Front Porch to Add Affordable Housing, Retail and Community Space to Sweet Auburn","published_date":"2019-12-24","featured_image":{"id":1078,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"front_porch.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":44086,"resource_updated_at":"2019-12-24T08:07:35.135-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2019-12-24T08:07:35.161-05:00","updated_at":"2019-12-26T08:21:26.857-05:00","filename_hash":"front_porch_kbjqQnV.jpg","width":678,"height":376},"filename":"the-front-porch-to-add-affordable-housing-retail-and-community-space","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"pyEINA","created_at":"2019-12-24T08:13:01.354-05:00","updated_at":"2019-12-26T08:21:26.818-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Eastside TAD Ascension Fund supports the construction of a mixed-use development in the heart of the Historic Sweet Auburn District.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt its December meeting, the board of Invest Atlanta, led by Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, voted to approve a grant of up to $2,000,000 from the Eastside TAD Ascension Fund to support the construction of a mixed-use development in the heart of the Historic Sweet Auburn District. It will consist of 42 units of housing as well as 27,000 square feet of retail. Twenty-three of the units will be available at affordable rentals rates as workforce housing, and the planned redevelopment will repurpose two historic buildings and an unutilized parking lot.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Front Porch at Auburn Avenue is a project developed by three mission-driven minority organizations sharing the same vision. The Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC), Partnership for Southern Equity, along with The Guild, all share the same goal of increasing economic mobility in Atlanta. The redevelopment project is called The Front Porch to evoke sentiments of welcoming and gathering\u0026mdash;invoking the history and legacy of Sweet Auburn as a center of black entrepreneurship and the importance of community in Southern traditions.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Front Porch aims to further reinvigorate the street and neighborhood. The two-story signature front porch promises to serve as a gathering space with a variety of uses geared toward welcoming all, such as a farmer\u0026rsquo;s market, children\u0026rsquo;s activity center, and sub-grade parking for residents. Additionally, the development will imbue the neighborhood economy with critical elements of environmentally and economically sustainable infrastructure, urban agriculture, and commerce.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":310,"title":"First Cohort of 2019 Community Wealth Building Accelerator Graduates","promo_title":"First Cohort of 2019 Community Wealth Building Accelerator Graduates","published_date":"2019-12-15","featured_image":{"id":1073,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"guild_cohort.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":941800,"resource_updated_at":"2019-12-16T09:15:06.182-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-12-16T09:15:06.271-05:00","updated_at":"2019-12-16T09:18:00.349-05:00","filename_hash":"guild_cohort_lpDO93v.jpg","width":2048,"height":2048},"filename":"first-cohort-of-2019-community-wealth-building-accelerator-graduates","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"5y_u6g","created_at":"2019-12-16T09:15:21.940-05:00","updated_at":"2019-12-16T09:18:00.308-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta and The Guild announced the graduation of the first cohort for the 2019 Community Wealth Building Accelerator, the first component of the Accelerate Southside small business development program.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta and The Guild announced the graduation of the first cohort for the 2019 Community Wealth Building Accelerator, the first component of the Accelerate Southside small business development program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Guild\u0026rsquo;s first cohort for the Community Wealth Building Accelerator consisted of 21 minority-owned businesses primarily in the Food \u0026amp; Beverage, Health, Beauty \u0026amp; Wellness, and Apparel \u0026amp; Home Decor sectors. The businesses ranged in annual revenue from $40,000 to $5 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe cohort learned advanced business fundamentals to boost the profitability of their businesses, real estate basics so they can acquire commercial real estate in rapidly gentrifying parts of the City, and new economic models that will allow them to build community wealth. Each business will also have access to peer coaches and shared back-office services.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCohort I consisted of 21 minority-owned businesses, primarily in the food and beverage, beauty and wellness, and apparel and home d\u0026eacute;cor sectors. Learn more about the members \u003ca href=\"https://www.theguild.community/cohort-1\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccelerate Southside is a two-part pilot program that includes an immersive business accelerator training offered by The Guild (2019 Community Wealth Building Business Accelerator) and a commercial down payment assistance pilot program that is currently under development by Invest Atlanta. With a focus on the 30-acre Pittsburgh Yards\u0026trade; development located on the Atlanta Beltline Southside Trail, the down payment assistance pilot program will support entrepreneurs interested in purchasing a shipping container for their business and locating it at the Pittsburgh Yards Shipping Container Garden.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRecently, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Wells Fargo, the Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative, and the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship have come on as partners of the program. The Annie E. Casey Foundation, the Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative, and Wells Fargo have provided grant funding to assist with program operations, and the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will be the host location for all classes, events, and cohort graduation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2018, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced that the City of Atlanta would join the City Accelerator program, an initiative of the Citi Foundation and Living Cities, and receive $100,000 in grant funding to support small businesses and job growth. The City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s initiative, Accelerate Southside, will help address major challenges faced by minority-owned businesses and further provide more access to opportunities for more Atlantans\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":306,"title":"Jesse Hill Market Food As Medicine Facility Receives TAD Funds","promo_title":"Jesse Hill Market Food As Medicine Facility Receives TAD Funds","published_date":"2019-11-21","featured_image":{"id":1067,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"grady_impact.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":469823,"resource_updated_at":"2019-11-21T15:21:06.500-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-11-21T15:21:06.622-05:00","updated_at":"2019-11-26T11:23:09.053-05:00","filename_hash":"grady_impact_KDWVg9x.png","width":1200,"height":697},"filename":"jesse-hill-market-food-as-medicine-facility-receives-tad-funds","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"B-U31Q","created_at":"2019-11-21T15:22:05.247-05:00","updated_at":"2019-11-26T11:23:09.009-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At their November meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved an Eastside TAD grant of up to $500,000 for the Jesse Hill Market.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt their November meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved an Eastside TAD grant of up to $500,000 for the Jesse Hill Market.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDeveloped in partnership with the Grady Health Foundation, Atlanta Community Food Bank, and Open Hand Atlanta, Jesse Hill Market will be a 7,000-square-foot comprehensive Food as Medicine facility at the entrance of Grady Health System\u0026rsquo;s campus on the vacant former site of a fast food restaurant.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe facility will house a \u0026ldquo;food pharmacy\u0026rdquo; with fresh produce, where food insecure patients with diet-related illness can redeem food prescriptions for their entire family, free of charge. A teaching kitchen will educate patients and employees on preparing healthy meals through hands-on classes and cooking demonstrations. Onsite nutrition services will ensure that patients are screened and directed to resources to assist with food access.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOpen Hand, a thirty-year-old non-profit recognized as one of the largest community-based providers of home-delivered meals and nutrition services in the county, will operate a healthy cafe offering affordable, pre-packed Good Measure Meals for purchase by the public in addition to an onsite farmer\u0026rsquo;s market stand.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNearly one in two deaths caused by heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes are associated with poor diet. Recent medical studies have concluded that diet and exercise are more effective than medicine at preventing diabetes. When Grady began surveying their patients in 2016, they found that 45% of inpatients and more than 50% of ambulatory patients experience food insecurity.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGrady\u0026rsquo;s partnership with Atlanta Community Food Bank and Open Hand is an innovative solution to address pervasive food insecurity, improve access to healthy foods, and ultimately drive better health outcomes.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":300,"title":"709 Affordable Housing Units Created or Retained in October","promo_title":"709 Affordable Housing Units Created or Retained in October","published_date":"2019-10-21","featured_image":{"id":1011,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"sylvan_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":923289,"resource_updated_at":"2019-10-17T11:04:27.806-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-10-17T11:04:27.928-04:00","updated_at":"2019-10-21T13:23:09.853-04:00","filename_hash":"sylvan_insight_YBMWWZj.png","width":1200,"height":755},"filename":"709-affordable-housing-units-created-or-retained-in-october","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"8X66mg","created_at":"2019-10-17T11:05:24.080-04:00","updated_at":"2019-10-21T13:23:09.813-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s monthly meeting, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta board of directors unanimously supported five resolutions that will help fund the creation and rehabilitation of 709 new affordable rental units in Southside and Westside neighborhoods of Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s monthly meeting, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta board of directors unanimously supported five resolutions that will help fund the creation and rehabilitation of 709 new affordable rental units in Southside and Westside neighborhoods of Atlanta. The five developments approved for bond financing will provide affordable housing options for individuals, families and senior residents at rental rates ranging from 30 to 80 percent of the area median income (AMI), with the majority of the units offered at 60 AMI percent or less.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Supporting new and strategic solutions to address Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s affordable housing needs is one of our administration\u0026rsquo;s top priorities,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;All of our residents should have access to safe, quality, affordable housing, and today\u0026rsquo;s actions are another step in this direction. As we continue to progress toward our affordable housing goals, we get closer to achieving our vision of One Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHerndon Square Apartments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe Invest Atlanta board approved a $12.5 million bond resolution to help finance the construction of 97 units of senior housing on Cameron Madison Alexander Boulevard in Vine City near Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Herndon Square, a development by Hunt Companies and Oakwood Development Group, will sit in the midst of a mixed-use, mixed-income development area and include amenities such as a health and business center. All units will be available at 60 percent AMI and under a HomeFlex contract with Atlanta Housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSylvan Hills Senior\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nSylvan Hills Senior, a project by Benoit Group Development, LLC, will create 183 new senior housing units in the Sylvan Hills community available at 50 to 60 percent AMI. The development is located near MARTA bus stops and includes amenities for recreation and livability. The Invest Atlanta board approved a $17.5 million bond resolution for the project.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCapitol View Apartments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe Invest Atlanta board approved an increase in bond financing to support the renovation of Capitol View Apartments in Southwest Atlanta. The 120-unit garden-style complex by New Columbia Residential, LLC, increases affordable housing along the Atlanta BeltLine where the trail intersects Metropolitan Parkway. Units will be available from 30 to 80 percent AMI and offer new building systems, interiors and amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMarietta Road Senior Towner\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nMarietta Road Senior Tower is an existing affordable housing development serving seniors and disabled individuals that will undergo renovations to improve the life expectancy of the building while lowering the building\u0026rsquo;s operating costs and carbon footprint. The renovation led by The Michaels Development Company includes in-unit, common area and elevator improvements, new water heaters, boilers, central AC equipment, emergency power generation, windows and other improvements. Marietta Road Senior Tower\u0026rsquo;s 129 units will rent at 60 percent AMI and Rental Assistance Demonstration project vouchers will be applied to the cost of the renovation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLondon Townhomes\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nLocated in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Ivan Hills neighborhood, the London Townhomes project will receive $20 million in bond financing to support the acquisition, rehabilitation and preservation of the property by TBG London Townhomes, LP and the Benoit Group. The property will provide 200 housing units with 180 renting for 60 percent AMI or less, and will offer a variety of apartment sizes to accommodate single residents and families.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Today\u0026rsquo;s actions by the Invest Atlanta board bring us closer to achieving the Mayor\u0026rsquo;s goal of producing and preserving 20,000 units of affordable housing by 2026 and speak to the collaborative teamwork between our public agencies,\u0026rdquo; said Terri Lee, Chief Housing Officer for the City of Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;We are working to align our agencies\u0026rsquo; efforts and optimize our public resources to help ensure that Atlanta is a city that everyone can call home.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;To achieve the goal of being an affordable city for all, we need to redouble our efforts on housing strategies that address a range of incomes and living options,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Seventy-three percent of the housing units approved by the board today will be available at 60 percent of the area median income or less to provide deeper affordability to residents and families. The board\u0026rsquo;s accomplishments today, under the leadership of Mayor Bottoms and with support from Atlanta Housing, will help to ensure residents can remain in their neighborhoods and continue to thrive.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms pledged to leverage $1 billion toward housing affordability to produce and preserve 20,000 units of affordable housing within the City of Atlanta by 2026. Through its various affordable housing strategies, Invest Atlanta continues to take a lead role in facilitating the creation of affordable housing throughout the city in coordination with other community-focused organizations\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":296,"title":"Atlanta Problem-Solvers Awarded $200,000 Through Civic Impact Loan Fund","promo_title":"Atlanta Emerging Markets Inc., Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation, and the Center for Civic Innovation Continue Support of Civic Problem-Solvers","published_date":"2019-09-24","featured_image":{"id":1003,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"151a4277.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":6790373,"resource_updated_at":"2019-09-24T08:59:23.894-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-09-24T08:59:24.601-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-30T14:07:31.794-04:00","filename_hash":"151a4277_1O9jvNw.jpg","width":5760,"height":3840},"filename":"atlanta-emerging-markets-inc-spanx-by-sara-blakely-foundation-and-the-center-for-civic-innovation-continue-support-of-civic-problem-solvers","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"fXNfIA","created_at":"2019-09-24T09:31:02.201-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-30T14:07:17.044-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Four Atlanta social ventures have been awarded a total of $200,000 by the Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation and Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) through the\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Impact\u0026nbsp;Loan\u0026nbsp;Fund. This loan fund is an effort created in partnership with the Center for\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Innovation (CCI) to support early-stage\u0026nbsp;civic\u0026nbsp;entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses and expanding their community\u0026nbsp;impact\u0026nbsp;in Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFour Atlanta social ventures have been awarded a total of $200,000 by the Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation and Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) through the\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Impact\u0026nbsp;Loan\u0026nbsp;Fund. This loan fund is an effort created in partnership with the Center for\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Innovation (CCI) to support early-stage\u0026nbsp;civic\u0026nbsp;entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses and expanding their community\u0026nbsp;impact\u0026nbsp;in Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Impact\u0026nbsp;Loan\u0026nbsp;Fund, created in December 2016 by Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. in partnership with the Center for\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Innovation, is an innovative investment tool that provides flexible, zero-interest\u0026nbsp;loans to entrepreneurs who have early-stage businesses that are making a difference in their local communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are proud to continue supporting\u0026nbsp;civic-minded businesses and those working on the front lines to make a positive\u0026nbsp;impact\u0026nbsp;on other people\u0026rsquo;s lives,\u0026rdquo; said Stephen McRae, President of AEMI. \u0026ldquo;These outstanding entrepreneurs are not only bringing new business ideas to life, but they are also showing their commitment to creating equity in our underserved communities. I wish each of these entrepreneurs continued success and admire their dedication to making Atlanta a greater city for all.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation was founded in 2006 with a mission to support and empower women through education, entrepreneurship, and the arts. The contribution from the Sara Blakely Foundation ensured that at least $100,000 of the\u0026nbsp;fund\u0026nbsp;went to women-led ventures.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;For me, this is about investing in the person, not just the business,\u0026rdquo; said Sara Blakely, Founder and CEO of Spanx and the Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation. \u0026ldquo;Not only do I believe we need to close the gap in women\u0026rsquo;s access to capital, I believe we need to give these women the holistic support that will enable them to soar. After providing them with a year of mentorship and training in partnership with CCI, we are celebrating their success and excited to invest in their businesses so they can grow and scale their\u0026nbsp;impact.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAEMI and the Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation each contributed $100,000 to\u0026nbsp;fund\u0026nbsp;early-stage\u0026nbsp;civic\u0026nbsp;entrepreneurs. The applicants selected to receive the $200,000 in total\u0026nbsp;funding are\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Dinners, The Showcase Group, Brown Toy Box, and SwemKids (The William Pleshette Company). All four of the entrepreneurs leading these organizations are recent graduates of CCI\u0026rsquo;s\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Innovation Residency program, a one-year intensive leadership, business development, and coaching program for\u0026nbsp;civic\u0026nbsp;entrepreneurs in the greater Atlanta-area that was sponsored by the Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation. CCI also provided deal sourcing, underwriting, mentorship, and programmatic support, with loan servicing and back office support provided by Invest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;These\u0026nbsp;civic\u0026nbsp;problem solvers represent the greatest assets of our economy,\u0026rdquo; said Rohit Malhotra, Founder and Executive Director of the Center for\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Innovation. \u0026ldquo;Each of their businesses exists to solve a specific systemic challenge, and their success will create ripple effects for generations.\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Entrepreneurship is in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s DNA. We\u0026rsquo;re just shining a light on the people who are on the ground, doing the work.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2019 recipients are:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJenn Graham |\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Dinners\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;aims to help create a more inclusive world where everyone feels invited and engaged in co-creating a better future by bringing people together over food for conversations that matter.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Kennebrew | The Showcase Group\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;works to strengthen justice-involved youth and families through psychological and personal development services inside and out of juvenile detention centers. Showcase Group provides support to incarcerated youth and their families by implementing psychosocial services such as advocacy and family and individual therapy by trained professionals.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTerri Nichelle-Bradley | Brown Toy Box\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;produces children\u0026#39;s products and exposure experiences designed to encourage and prepare black children to pursue interests and careers in STEAM.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrish Miller | SwemKids (The William Pleshette Company)\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;is a 501(c)(3) school-based program that teaches children introductory swimming lessons and water safety skills as a part of their school\u0026#39;s curriculum. The William Pleshette Company, Swem Kids\u0026#39; for-profit entity, is designing and testing a fully waterproof swimming cap to keep thick and curly hair dry in the water and address a cultural obstacle to swimming.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This contribution is really going to take The Showcase Group to the next level,\u0026rdquo; said John Kennebrew, Executive Director and Founder of The Showcase Group. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026#39;ve grown from working with two youth out of the detention center to working with one hundred youth this year. Now, we\u0026#39;re able to put a Program Director in place to manage the logistics of working with the clinical social workers, advocates, and other community members who help to strengthen the youth we work with. It\u0026rsquo;s a great relief to now have someone who can manage the day to day relationships, while I can focus on taking the organization to the next level.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow in its third year of operation, the\u0026nbsp;Civic\u0026nbsp;Impact\u0026nbsp;Loan\u0026nbsp;Fund\u0026nbsp;has provided $455,000 to a diverse group of early-stage businesses in many different\u0026nbsp;impact\u0026nbsp;areas, including community development, the arts, wellness, and education.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":295,"title":"Invest Atlanta Supports 241 Affordable Units at 60% AMI ","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Supports 241 Affordable Units at 60% AMI ","published_date":"2019-09-19","featured_image":{"id":721,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"pakrside_qy_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1165049,"resource_updated_at":"2018-09-20T13:51:58.758-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":4,"created_at":"2018-09-20T13:51:58.822-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-19T13:30:11.795-04:00","filename_hash":"pakrside_qy_insight_ZOXw1vW.png","width":1299,"height":585},"filename":"invest-atlanta-supports-241-affordable-units-at-60-ami","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"RrZ2iQ","created_at":"2019-09-19T10:19:17.989-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-19T13:30:11.748-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for the Capitol View and Parkside developments.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for the Capitol View and Parkside developments. The financing will retain 88 units of affordable housing at Capitol View on Metropolitan Parkway near the Atlanta BeltLine, and the creation of 153 new units at Parkside on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway. All 241 of these units will be set aside for families earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCapitol View\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 120-unit, garden-style Capitol View complex in southwest Atlanta was built in 1948 and will be preserved and renovated with new building systems, interiors, and amenities. The complex sits on the Atlanta Beltline as it crosses Metropolitan Parkway and will ensure affordable units have direct access to the Beltline loop. Residents will also have access to meeting rooms, laundry facilities, a picnic area, play areas for small children, and after-school programs.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board approved $13.4 million in tax-exempt loan for this development.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParkside\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Parkside development will consist of the new construction of 182 units, 153 units of which will be affordable for families earning at or below 60% AMI, in the Bankhead neighborhood. Amenities will include a central laundry facility, washer dryer hookups in units, picnic area, tot lots, fitness room, and a business center.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board approved $22 million tax-exempt bond financing, and it has previously approved a $2 million loan from the Atlanta BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":293,"title":"Woodson Park Academy, YMCA \u0026 Health Clinic Breaks Ground in Grove Park","promo_title":"Woodson Park Academy, YMCA \u0026 Health Clinic Breaks Ground in Grove Park","published_date":"2019-09-16","featured_image":{"id":995,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"woodson_park_insights.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1455239,"resource_updated_at":"2019-09-16T10:06:46.678-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-09-16T10:06:46.761-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-17T14:36:29.317-04:00","filename_hash":"woodson_park_insights_lpYYBxQ.png","width":1092,"height":575},"filename":"woodson-park-academy-ymca-health-clinic-breaks-ground-in-grove-park","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"OohC7g","created_at":"2019-09-16T10:07:00.692-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-17T14:36:29.275-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. recently celebrated another investment in high-quality education for the Westside and bright futures for children on this side of the city.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. recently celebrated another investment in high-quality education for the Westside and bright futures for children on this side of the city. Many community and financial partners came together to provide the resources to make Woodson Park Academy a reality and a symbol of opportunity, empowerment, and equity for Grove Park.\u0026nbsp;AEMI\u0026rsquo;s New Markets Tax Credit program supported Woodson Park academy with a $15 million allocation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWoodson Park Academy will be a 115,000-square-foot, 900-seat K-8 public school serving 900 students. KIPP Metro Atlanta to operate the neighborhood school, which will be open to all students in the Woodson Park Academy zone.\u0026nbsp;The 23,000-square-foot YMCA and 2,500-square-foot community health facility be a beacon for brighter futures, as well as a community and neighborhood hub and a central component of larger revitalization and economic mobility effort in Grove Park and Westside neighborhoods.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIt will also help to further activate the Donald Lee Hallowell commercial corridor. The academy is expected to provide 120 jobs and includes a $37 million capital investment \u0026ndash; which, in turn, will make a $52.1 million economic impact for the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA project like this is rooted in inclusive development and economic mobility meant to ensure that economic resources are provided to communities where they can make a meaningful and even life-changing difference for residents.\u0026nbsp;With support from APS, YMCA, Grove Park Foundation, KIPP, Purpose Built Communities, SunTrust, Bank of America and Atlanta Emerging Markets, this facility is a model, not only in Atlanta but nationally, for what can be accomplished when best-in-class partners come together to make a positive, lasting impact for the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":294,"title":"Urban Land Institute Atlanta Recognizes John H. Harland Boys \u0026 Girls Club","promo_title":"Urban Land Institute Atlanta Recognizes John H. Harland Boys \u0026 Girls Club","published_date":"2019-09-16","featured_image":{"id":996,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"hardland_insights.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1084465,"resource_updated_at":"2019-09-16T10:21:30.713-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-09-16T10:21:30.787-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-17T14:35:16.891-04:00","filename_hash":"hardland_insights_6aee82v.png","width":1200,"height":570},"filename":"urban-land-institute-atlanta-recognizes-john-h-harland-boys-girls-club","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"YbDbng","created_at":"2019-09-16T10:22:56.563-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-17T14:35:16.846-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n As part of its 25th-anniversary celebration, the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta honored the John H. Harland Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club: The Innovation \u0026amp; Expression Studio with its Excellence in Civic/Institutional Development Award.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAs part of its 25th-anniversary celebration, the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta honored the John H. Harland Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club: The Innovation \u0026amp; Expression Studio with its Excellence in Civic/Institutional Development Award. Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) supported the project, a two-story 25,143-square-foot art- and innovation-focused Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club, with a New Markets Tax Credit allocation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe ULI Atlanta Awards recognize\u0026nbsp;outstanding Atlanta area projects that exemplify the ULI\u0026rsquo;s mission to provide \u0026ldquo;leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe John H. Harland Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club: The Innovation \u0026amp; Expression Studio\u0026nbsp;replaced an underutilized and outdated Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club on the same land. The Harland T.I.E.S Club includes an art studio, maker space, teen loft, and spoken word caf\u0026eacute;, teaching kitchen and gym. The project is located in the West End, and serves the Washington cluster of Atlanta Public Schools, along with multiple public charter schools, with after-school programming.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eConstruction began in 2018 on the first-ever Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club focused on the arts in the nation. This club is part of a national study supported by the Wallace Foundation focused on exploring how high-quality arts programs can drive positive developmental outcomes for youth.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe children and teens at TIES will have access to programming in the visual, performing, and culinary arts. Stephanie Blank, the outgoing Corporate Board chair for the Boys \u0026amp; Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta announced that they had established partnerships with creative arts groups to provide training and educational support. The organizations include the Woodruff Arts Center, the High Museum of Art, Alliance Theater, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Morehouse College, Spelman College, Georgia State University, Moving in the Spirit, Museum of Design Atlanta, the Center for Puppetry Arts, and re:imagine/ATL.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) supported the new center through a $7 million New Markets Tax Credit allocation. AEMI is a U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Entity (CDE) created by Invest Atlanta in 2006 that specializes in providing gap financing for projects that create jobs and revitalize Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s distressed neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOther funding partners included The Harland Foundation, Chick-fil-A Foundation, Georgia-Pacific Foundation, LUBO Fund, Piedmont Charitable Foundation, SunTrust Bank Foundation, Toll Charitable Foundation, Wish Foundation, Fidelity Foundation, and the Atlanta Housing Authority (AHA)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n West End\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":292,"title":"Atlanta Youth Academy Expansion Will Serve Southside Students","promo_title":"Atlanta Youth Academy Expansion Will Serve Southside Students","published_date":"2019-09-10","featured_image":{"id":994,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"aya_insights.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1266282,"resource_updated_at":"2019-09-16T09:50:43.648-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-09-16T09:50:43.927-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-16T09:52:13.802-04:00","filename_hash":"aya_insights_7JvvE3L.png","width":1200,"height":635},"filename":"atlanta-youth-academy-expansion-will-serve-southside-students","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"9EaFgQ","created_at":"2019-09-16T09:51:46.802-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-16T09:52:13.757-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. closed on a $9MM NMTC transaction to support the Atlanta Youth Academy campus redevelopment and expansion project in Thomasville Heights.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. closed on a $9MM NMTC transaction to support the Atlanta Youth Academy campus redevelopment and expansion project in Thomasville Heights.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the Atlanta Youth Academy was founded in 1997 it had only one teacher and nine students.\u0026nbsp; Today, the school serves 150 students (Pre-K through 8th grade) and most students are from low-income, single-parent households with median annual incomes of under $24,000.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnly 64% of students from this income bracket graduate high school nationally, however 100% of AYA students graduate 8th grade and enroll in high school, 100% of AYA alumni graduate high school, and 93% matriculate to a 4-year college and 6% matriculate to a 2-year college.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe NMTC funding will allow Atlanta Youth Academy to increase their capacity to 225 students and replace their outdated facilities with a new campus that includes dedicated spaces for STEM and arts education.\u0026nbsp; In addition, they are redeveloping a blighted six-acre brownfield site that previously housed crime and drug-ridden industrial buildings.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEducation is a key component to breaking the cycle of poverty and building wealth, and project will allow 75 additional students to receive a quality education and help stabilize blighted property in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s southside.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAEMI partnered with SunTrust on the transaction.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":288,"title":"Financing for More Than 300 Affordable Housing Units Approved by IA Board","promo_title":"Financing for More Than 300 Affordable Housing Units Approved by IA Board","published_date":"2019-08-16","featured_image":{"id":982,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"peachtree_senior_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1187995,"resource_updated_at":"2019-08-16T15:38:58.662-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-08-16T15:38:58.797-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-16T15:40:42.579-04:00","filename_hash":"peachtree_senior_insight_wj6DRjx.png","width":1200,"height":669},"filename":"financing-for-more-than-300-affordable-housing-units-approved-by-ia-board","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"k0TpoA","created_at":"2019-08-16T15:40:42.543-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-16T15:40:42.543-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved bond resolutions to support the financing of two affordable housing developments.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved bond resolutions to support the financing of two affordable housing developments. Hartland Station will be a new multifamily housing community in the Sylvan Hills neighborhood with 110 units of affordable housing at 60% average AMI. The board also approved a tax-exempt bond resolution to rehabilitate Peachtree Road Senior Tower, a 196-unit affordable living facility for seniors and young disabled residents.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHartland Station\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHartland Station will be a 110-unit modern garden-style 3-story community aimed at revitalizing the Metropolitan Parkway corridor and becoming an asset to the Sylvan Hills neighborhood. This community will be equipped with several amenities including a business center, picnic area, tot lots and exercise room. The Urban Residential Finance Authority (URFA) Board approved an $18.8 million tax-exempt loan and a $1.5 million Housing Opportunity Bond multifamily loan for the development.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeachtree Road Senior Tower\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe URFA Board approved $14.5 million in tax-exempt bond financing for the 196-unit Peachtree Road Senior Tower in the Peachtree/Collier neighborhood. All the units will be available to residents at 60% AMI. \u0026nbsp;This will involve the rehabilitation of an existing public housing tower serving seniors and young disabled individuals.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe renovation and rehab budget is focused on meeting key property needs\u0026nbsp;in accordance with the \u003ca href=\"https://www.hud.gov/RAD\"\u003eRental Assistance Demonstration (RAD) program\u003c/a\u003e to preserve and improve public housing properties. Most of the work focused on the mechanical system and energy efficiency improvements. Interior in-unit work will be limited to new kitchen cabinets, flooring, new paint, and new bathtubs. Common area work will involve a complete redo of all interior hallways and elevator lobbies. These combined improvements will improve the life expectancy of the building while lowering operating costs and the buildings carbon footprint.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":287,"title":"New Andrew Young At-Promise Center to Provide Opportunities for Atlanta Youth ","promo_title":"New Andrew Young At-Promise Center to Provide Opportunities for Atlanta Youth ","published_date":"2019-08-15","featured_image":{"id":981,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"promise_center_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1305700,"resource_updated_at":"2019-08-15T13:46:00.065-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2019-08-15T13:46:00.139-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-15T16:21:43.788-04:00","filename_hash":"promise_center_insight_npmeqQq.png","width":1200,"height":641},"filename":"new-andrew-young-at-promise-center-to-provide-opportunities-for-atlanta-youth","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"nni10Q","created_at":"2019-08-15T13:46:55.699-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-15T16:21:43.768-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved a $1 million grant from the Campbellton Road Tax Allocation District (TAD) to support the construction of the Andrew Young At-Promise Center.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved a $1 million grant from the Campbellton Road Tax Allocation District (TAD) to support the construction of the Andrew Young At-Promise Center.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe At-Promise Youth and Community Center will be a 15,000 square foot state-of-the-art learning and community facility located on the campus of the existing Walter and Andrew Young YMCA. It will house specialized services for youth and be a gathering place for residents, group activities and other purposes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe facility will allow community stakeholders such as the Boys and Girl Clubs, Chris 180, Police Athletic, Street Smart Youth Project, and the Urban League to counsel at-risk youth and prevent further community crime. Funding for the facility will also come from the Coca-Cola and SunTrust Foundations.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Center is envisioned as a place that provides youth with positive opportunities to view police and public institutions as partners and to have full access to an excellent education, premier health and social services and a community untroubled by violence. Teens in at-risk communities have a higher likelihood of being involved in criminal activity; in fact, last year, more than 50% of the crime in Atlanta was committed by juveniles.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWithin the At-Promise Center, the Atlanta Police Foundation (APF)\u0026nbsp;has created a collaborative community hub where youth receive personalized and comprehensive intervention plans within one facility. APF engages leading youth service providers and experts to operate within the Center to provide wrap-around services. This form of intervention and diversion provides officers with an alternative youth arrest.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe At-Promise Initiative also creates an avenue of prevention for teens considered at-risk for committing crimes. It is designed to set youth on a safer path to a brighter future. The first At-Promise Center opened its doors in the English Avenue neighborhood in August of 2017. The Center has served about 400 youth from the community, far exceeding expectations. The second At-Promise Center will be located on Metropolitan Parkway.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":283,"title":"Atlanta Part of Rockefeller Foundation’s Opportunity Zone Community Capacity Building Initiative","promo_title":"Atlanta Part of Rockefeller Foundation’s Opportunity Zone Community Capacity Building Initiative","published_date":"2019-08-01","featured_image":{"id":939,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"foz_event_2.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1222085,"resource_updated_at":"2019-08-01T14:00:11.851-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-08-01T14:00:11.921-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-02T14:22:48.190-04:00","filename_hash":"foz_event_2_kbmvg6y.png","width":1200,"height":593},"filename":"atlanta-named-newest-city-in-rockefeller-foundations-opportunity-zone-community-capacity-building-initiative","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"0TYDsQ","created_at":"2019-08-01T14:01:24.795-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-02T14:22:48.152-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced Atlanta will become the second city to participate in The Rockefeller Foundation\u0026rsquo;s Opportunity Zone Community Capacity Building Initiative. The initiative, which launched in May 2019, aims to help U.S. cities attract responsible private investment in economically-distressed communities through Opportunity Zones created in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced Atlanta will become the second city to participate in The Rockefeller Foundation\u0026rsquo;s Opportunity Zone Community Capacity Building Initiative. The initiative, which launched in May 2019, aims to help U.S. cities attract responsible private investment in economically-distressed communities through Opportunity Zones created in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Opportunity Zones are an exciting new tool for building economic development in underserved communities,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;These grants will help guide us as we implement the program to maximize the benefits of job creation and neighborhood improvement in the most vulnerable areas of our city. Thank you to the Rockefeller Foundation for this commitment that will advance equity citywide, as we continue to build One Atlanta, and provide a level playing field for all.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta, which has more than 82,000 residents living in 26 designated Opportunity Zones, will receive $920,000 in grants and supportive services, including a $400,000 grant to establish and fund a Chief Opportunity Zone Officer embedded in Invest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic development authority. Funding will also support the placement of two AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) members who will facilitate community involvement in proposed Opportunity Zone projects and businesses; and technical assistance to help develop project pipelines that balance the interests of investors with those of existing community members.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Opportunity Zones are the first federal incentive for community development in 15 years and a unique opportunity to leverage private capital to help achieve Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic and community development goals,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has been a first mover in the city with Opportunity Zones and partnerships with the Rockefeller Foundation and Cities of Service will help us further the goal of bringing meaningful investment and greater equity to our communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;As the wealth gap in the United States continues to widen, we recognize how a zip code impacts the economic opportunities for a community and its residents,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Rajiv J. Shah, President of the Rockefeller Foundation. \u0026ldquo;Atlanta has shown strong commitment to ensuring investment in its Opportunity Zones are designed with the most vulnerable in mind, and we are pleased to provide additional support to ultimately lift up these communities by enabling new pathways to economic mobility.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Rockefeller Foundation also announced it will award a $600,000 grant to Cities of Service, an independent nonprofit organization that helps mayors build stronger, more vibrant cities by changing the way local government and citizens work together. Cities of Service will provide Atlanta and five other cities participating in the Foundation\u0026rsquo;s Opportunity Zones initiative with technical assistance and two AmeriCorps VISTA members who will lead and manage community engagement efforts in each city. Through this effort, Cites of Service will help selected cities achieve positive economic and social outcomes for their communities through community-informed Opportunity Zone efforts.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information about Opportunity Zones in the City of Atlanta, including development projects seeking investment, visit \u003ca href=\"http://www.atlopportunityzones.com\"\u003ewww.atlopportunityzones.com\u003c/a\u003e.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":285,"title":"Invest Atlanta Staff Provides National Affordable Housing Advocacy and Thought Leadership","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Staff Provides National Affordable Housing Advocacy and Thought Leadership","published_date":"2019-07-30","featured_image":{"id":978,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"dawn_housing_event.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1757772,"resource_updated_at":"2019-08-12T10:15:53.326-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-08-12T10:15:53.504-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-12T10:17:25.996-04:00","filename_hash":"dawn_housing_event_QgljJQ2.png","width":1200,"height":838},"filename":"invest-atlanta-staff-provides-national-affordable-housing-advocacy-and-thought-leadership","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Jv6u_A","created_at":"2019-08-12T10:16:05.674-04:00","updated_at":"2019-08-12T10:17:25.961-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Several members of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Community Development team featured prominently in regional and national events on affordable housing policy.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSeveral members of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Community Development team featured prominently in regional and national events on affordable housing policy.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies (NALHFA) Trip to DC\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta Chief Operating Officer Dawn Arnold serves as NALHFA Vice President, and in July she joined other members of the organization on a trip to Washington, DC to meet with Congressional offices to discuss critically important affordable housing issues.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe first meeting was with Matt Jones, a Senate majority Banking Committee staffer, to discuss Chairman Mike Crapo\u0026rsquo;s (R-ID) GSE Reform package that came out earlier this spring and the Committee\u0026rsquo;s recent GSE hearings.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNALHFA then met with Congresswoman Patricia Murphy\u0026rsquo;s (D-FL-7) office to talk about enhancing the Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program by urging her to sign on as a cosponsor to the recent reintroduction of H.R. 3077, the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act 2019 (AHCIA).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNALHFA again advocated for the AHCIA with Representative Drew Ferguson (R-GA-3), who was excited to learn more about all of the rural housing provisions in the legislation, and to have an in-depth discussion with Arnold about the situation in the state of Georgia.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNALHFA was excited to have the opportunity to visit senior officials at the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) to share its 2019 Legislative and Regulatory Priorities. They discussed several issues, including the enhancement of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit with Members of Congress and GSE Reform.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHUD Region IV Emerging Strategies to Affordable Housing Expo\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eArnold,\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta Senior Vice President of Community Development Alan Ferguso, and Opportunity Zones \u0026amp; Special Initiatives Manager Ed Smith\u0026nbsp;joined over 350 non-profit leaders, public housing authority directors, developers and financial partners at the region\u0026#39;s inaugural Emerging Strategies in Affordable Housing Expo in Atlanta. They gathered to discuss affordable housing policy and to share best practices concerning innovative methodologies to address the affordable housing crisis.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;What brings us together today is a joint mission and mutual understanding that our nation faces an affordable housing crisis and needs leadership, innovation and expertise if we are to help bring about meaningful affordable housing policy change that provides hope for those we mutually serve,\u0026quot; said Region IV Administrator Denise Cleveland Leggett, who hosted the event and welcomed attendees. \u0026quot;Today, we are gathered here to develop a real vision of shared understanding, characterized by tangible approaches for what is truly possible when leaders of conscience gather, roll up their sleeves, and commit to work and not give up.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Region IV Emerging Strategies to Affordable Housing Expo was a two-day event at the Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center focused on increasing awareness of the range of housing strategies available in affordable housing.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eArnold joined Dr. Troy Nash to discuss how best to leverage public-private partnerships, while Ferguson shared best practices from his experience supporting affordable housing developments in the City of Atlanta. Smith discussed shovel-ready projects the in City of Atlanta\u0026#39;s 26 Federal Opportunity Zones, social impact investing and more valuable\u0026nbsp;information.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":282,"title":"Invest Atlanta to Develop City’s First Economic Mobility Strategy","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta to Develop City’s First Economic Mobility Strategy","published_date":"2019-07-22","featured_image":{"id":933,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"atlanta_econ_mobility_insights.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":936521,"resource_updated_at":"2019-07-22T08:29:47.561-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-07-22T08:29:47.693-04:00","updated_at":"2021-05-12T11:39:47.578-04:00","filename_hash":"atlanta_econ_mobility_insights_7JNJbmL.png","width":1200,"height":702},"filename":"invest-atlanta-to-develop-citys-first-economic-mobility-strategy","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"sQFNNg","created_at":"2019-07-22T08:30:00.227-04:00","updated_at":"2021-05-12T11:39:47.513-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta is redoubling its efforts on equity and economic mobility through the development of the city\u0026rsquo;s first-ever economic mobility strategy.\u0026nbsp;Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has already shown strong leadership on these issues, and this strategy development process is an opportunity to align and complement the broader One Atlanta strategic effort.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUpdate:\u003c/strong\u003e The community input period is closed. We truly appreciate all the ideas and feedback from residents, businesses, civic and not-for-profit leaders, and other stakeholders on this vital effort.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta is redoubling its efforts on equity and economic mobility through the development of the city\u0026rsquo;s first-ever economic mobility strategy.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEconomic prosperity and competitiveness in Atlanta start with equitable access to opportunity and pathways to wealth creation. The goal is to further economic development and mobility for all Atlantans by:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eReviewing Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s current efforts around economic mobility\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eAnalyzing key factors related to access to opportunity \u0026ndash; both within Atlanta and globally\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eIdentifying alignment opportunities across existing strategic frameworks\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eProviding recommendations to further Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic development goals and improve economic mobility\u0026nbsp;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEconomic mobility is the ability of an individual, family, or group to improve their economic status. In Atlanta, that starts with equity equal access to opportunity and pathways to wealth creation. Atlanta currently leads the nation in income inequality. There is a clear divide between wealthier, majority white communities to the north of I-20 and poorer communities to the south and west where most residents are African-American.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has already shown strong leadership on these issues, and this strategy development process is an opportunity to align and complement the broader One Atlanta strategic effort. In addition, we leverage the expertise of our project partners at Bloomberg Associates, Enterprise, APD Urban Planning Management, and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe approach will be data-driven, will build on the work that has been done and create alignment rather than be duplicative, and place an emphasis on national and international best practices customized to the unique strengths and trends in Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe end goal is to identify pathways and specific policy recommendations to improve economic mobility. Input from residents, businesses, civic and not-for-profit leaders, and other stakeholders is vital to developing a comprehensive, inclusive strategy.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nIn the coming weeks and months, we will be asking your thoughts on how you would increase economic mobility in Atlanta. We look forward to hearing from you.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":281,"title":"Invest Atlanta Supports Hundreds of Affordable Rental Units \u0026 For-Sale Homes","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Supports Hundreds of Affordable Rental Units \u0026 For-Sale Homes","published_date":"2019-07-20","featured_image":{"id":932,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"east_medinah.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1419229,"resource_updated_at":"2019-07-20T07:27:52.956-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-07-20T07:27:53.395-04:00","updated_at":"2022-03-16T13:40:58.250-04:00","filename_hash":"east_medinah_bzmn4aN.png","width":1077,"height":661},"filename":"invest-atlanta-supports-hundreds-of-affordable-multifamily-senior-housing-units","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"0Rwlkw","created_at":"2019-07-20T07:29:05.550-04:00","updated_at":"2022-03-16T13:40:58.169-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt their monthly meeting, Invest Atlanta took the first step toward supporting several affordable housing developments. The Board approved support for three major projects, which when complete will provide 305 units of multifamily affordable housing units, 124 for seniors, and 23 affordable single-family homes.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eContinuing to support new and strategic solutions to address Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s affordable housing needs remains a top priority for Invest Atlanta. All residents should have access to safe, quality, affordable housing, and these actions were another step in the right direction. Invest Atlanta continues to make significant progress toward our affordable housing goals, as we move closer to achieving our vision for One Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrue Light Haven Senior\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board approved an inducement resolution to provide an $18 million tax-exempt loan for the construction of 124 units of high-quality senior affordable housing near the West Lake MARTA station. National Church Residences will provide holistic senior living services to ensure that each resident can remain independent by preserving their quality of life and creating a home for life.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCity Views\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board also approved a $27 million tax-exempt loan for City Views at Rosa Burney Park. The multifamily development will preserve and rehabilitate 154 units set aside for families earning 60% AMI or below. For 127 of the units, residents will pay no more than 30% of their income.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEast Medinah Village\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved $27 million in tax-exempt bonds and a $440,000 grant from the BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund for East Medinah Village Phase I. This first of four phases, this development will bring 255 units of multifamily housing to Hank Aaron Drive in Peoplestown. All 255 units will be affordable, and 205 units will be set aside for households earning 60 percent AMI or below. Phase I of the development will also include approximately 25,000 square feet of retail space and parking.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAtlanta Land Trust: 1091 Tucker Avenue\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe previous week,\u0026nbsp;the URFA Housing Committee approved a $920,000 grant from the BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund to be used to support the construction of 23 affordable single-family homes in the Oakland City neighborhood. The development will include a mix of modular housing designed by Smith Dalia Architects and built by Oak Construction Group. The Atlanta Land Trust and Homeplace Solutions are leading the project, and all homes will be priced for families at 80% of AMI and below.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms pledged to leverage $1 billion towards housing affordability to produce and preserve 20,000 units of affordable housing within the City of Atlanta by 2026. Through its various affordable housing strategies, Invest Atlanta continues to advocate for affordable housing in Atlanta as the city grows and serves as a primary objective of the agency.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAn update to this project can be found \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/affordable-townhomes-coming-to-tucker-avenue\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":277,"title":"Accelerate Southside Program Launched to Support Business Growth","promo_title":"Accelerate Southside Program Launched","published_date":"2019-07-08","featured_image":{"id":924,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"accelerate_southside.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":971969,"resource_updated_at":"2019-07-08T14:50:27.303-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":3,"created_at":"2019-07-08T14:50:27.575-04:00","updated_at":"2020-04-03T08:59:16.640-04:00","filename_hash":"accelerate_southside_p5qD75V.png","width":1200,"height":570},"filename":"accelerate-southside-program-launched-to-support-business-growth","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ADQxHA","created_at":"2019-07-08T14:52:01.591-04:00","updated_at":"2019-07-23T07:54:31.027-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta and The Guild have announced a strategic partnership to launch Accelerate Southside, a new program for minority-owned businesses in the City of Atlanta. Accelerate Southside is designed to assist minority-owned businesses located on the Southside with business acceleration, growth, and owning space as a wealth-building tool.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta and The Guild have announced a strategic partnership to launch \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/accelerate-southside\"\u003eAccelerate Southside\u003c/a\u003e, a new program for minority-owned businesses in the City of Atlanta. Accelerate Southside is designed to assist minority-owned businesses located on the Southside with business acceleration, growth, and owning space as a wealth-building tool.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nIn 2018, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced that the City of Atlanta would join the City Accelerator program, an initiative of the Citi Foundation and Living Cities, and receive $100,000 in grant funding to support small businesses and job growth. The City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s initiative, Accelerate Southside, will help address four major challenges experienced by minority-owned businesses: limited access to capital based on traditional underwriting criteria, debt service payment capabilities, difficulty purchasing commercial space, and preparing for business growth.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;With an estimated 3,300 businesses that generate $3 billion in revenue and employ more than 43,000 people, Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Southside neighborhoods are poised for new investment and business growth,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta focuses on creating and implementing programming that supports entrepreneurs and existing businesses in our communities to create a stronger citywide economy. Accelerate Southside in partnership with The Guild is one of many ways we are working to achieve this goal and facilitate entrepreneurship in more Atlanta communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nAccelerate Southside is a two-part pilot program that includes an immersive business accelerator training offered by The Guild (2019 Community Wealth Building Business Accelerator) and a commercial down payment assistance program offered by Invest Atlanta. With a focus on the 30-acre Pittsburgh Yards\u0026trade; redevelopment site located on the Atlanta Beltline Southside Trail, the program will support entrepreneurs interested in purchasing a shipping container to locate at the Pittsburgh Yards Shipping Container Courtyard.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;After meeting with dozens of business owners on the Southside, it became apparent that there is a pressing need to create new programs and products to address the risk of business displacement and lack of accessible capital to start and grow businesses,\u0026rdquo; said Erika Smith, Southside Community \u0026amp; Economic Development Manager at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Accelerate Southside will provide technical assistance to help address those needs and challenges so that these businesses have the opportunity to grow, purchase commercial property, and establish themselves in a high-demand area. Our goal is to preserve and grow businesses who have chosen to locate in the Southside.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe Guild, a co-living organization that targets social entrepreneurs and changemakers, is focused on community wealth-building strategies that aim to improve the ability of communities to increase asset ownership, anchor jobs locally, and build economic resilience.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;Partnering with Invest Atlanta for Accelerate Southside allows us to address issues that are key priorities for both of our organizations and critical to the success of minority-owned small businesses in Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Nikishka Iyengar, Founder \u0026amp; CEO at The Guild. \u0026ldquo;The goal is to help these businesses boost viability and sustainability, open new locations, and to build wealth in their communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nVisit\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/accelerate-southside\"\u003einvestatlanta.com/accelerate-southside\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;for more information.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":274,"title":"Invest Atlanta Board Supports Financing for 150 New Affordable Housing Units","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Board Supports Financing for 150 New Affordable Housing Units","published_date":"2019-06-20","featured_image":{"id":917,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"dlh_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":584607,"resource_updated_at":"2019-06-20T09:41:37.236-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-06-20T09:41:37.315-04:00","updated_at":"2019-07-11T14:58:35.941-04:00","filename_hash":"dlh_insight_QgXllLE.png","width":1320,"height":597},"filename":"invest-atlanta-board-supports-financing-for-150-new-affordable-housing-units","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"yx6mlQ","created_at":"2019-06-20T09:42:23.936-04:00","updated_at":"2019-07-11T14:58:35.905-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At its monthly meeting, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors supported the creation of 150 affordable rental units in the Grove Park and Center Hill neighborhoods.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt its monthly meeting, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors supported the creation of 150 affordable rental units in the Grove Park and Center Hill neighborhoods.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved $15 million in tax-exempt bond financing and $1 million in Hollowell/MLK TAD Grant funding for construction of new a multifamily development along Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway. The development will contain 150 affordable units, with 130 units set aside for households earning 60 percent AMI or below.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the developer intends to reserve 10 percent of the units for young adults who are aging out of the foster care system.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe developer, Vecino Group, has a history of creating affordable housing developments across the United States, and the development will be one of its first projects in Georgia. In addition to affordable housing, the development will include space for urban farming, an amphitheater, artists gallery, a recording studio, and 10,000 square feet of retail space. Vecino Group is currently working with the Center Hill Neighborhood Association to gain insight and feedback on ideas for community-focused retail.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m also very pleased with the project,\u0026rdquo; said IA Board Member Bill Bozarth. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s design, when you look at the whole package, has a number of items that are very innovative.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms pledged to leverage $1 billion towards housing affordability to produce and preserve 20,000 units of affordable housing within the City of Atlanta by 2026. Through its various affordable housing strategies, Invest Atlanta continues to advocate for affordable housing in Atlanta as the city grows and serves as a primary objective of the agency.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":273,"title":"Atlanta Drives the Conversation Around Equitable Federal Opportunity Zone Investment ","promo_title":"Atlanta Driving the Conversation Around Equitable Federal Opportunity Zone Investment ","published_date":"2019-06-12","featured_image":{"id":913,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"foz_event.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1226697,"resource_updated_at":"2019-06-12T14:46:57.415-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-06-12T14:46:57.549-04:00","updated_at":"2019-06-13T10:06:09.232-04:00","filename_hash":"foz_event_8mk1aR2.png","width":1200,"height":619},"filename":"atlanta-drives-the-conversation-around-equitable-federal-opportunity-zone-investment","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"FVw0aQ","created_at":"2019-06-12T14:47:13.046-04:00","updated_at":"2019-06-13T10:06:09.184-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta has been a first mover and thought leader when it comes to driving the conversation about an effective\u0026nbsp;Federal Opportunity Zone development strategy.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has been a first mover and thought leader when it comes to driving the conversation about an effective\u0026nbsp;Federal Opportunity Zone development strategy. The City of Atlanta is at the forefront of examining how to maximize the program\u0026#39;s\u0026nbsp;potential for equity, neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing, business development, and living wage job creation in our communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFederal Opportunity Zones are the first federal economic and community development tool to launch since the New Markets Tax Credits program 15 years ago. This new program provides an opportunity to drive private investment into neighborhoods in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s 26 Opportunity Zones, located primarily in the south and southwest areas of the city. Many of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s incentives can be layered with Opportunity Zone investments to deliver additional economic benefits to the city and its residents.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Edward Smith has gotten off to a running start as our very first Opportunity Zones and Special Initiatives Manager. In this role, Dr. Smith is developing and leading the Invest Atlanta strategy\u0026nbsp;for connecting qualified investors to place-based initiatives, development projects, and businesses seeking investment capital located within the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Federal Opportunity Zones.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRecently, Invest Atlanta has partnered with other local organizations to host two informative events. On May 23, 2019 at Southface, Invest Atlanta and the Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative brought in financial and development experts for a Federal Opportunity Zone Forum for Entrepreneurs. Speakers included Alicia Reeves of AWBI; Dr. Shireda P. Howard, Managing Director, Diversified Financial Management Group, Inc.; Will Lambe, Director of Capital Solutions, Enterprise Community Investments, Inc.; and Dale Royal, Executive Director, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). A packed house heard a spirited discussion on the benefits of Opportunity Zones for residents and businesses, and best practices for mobilizing capital to invest in small businesses located in underserved markets.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nOn June 4, 2019, Invest Atlanta hosted a Federal Opportunity Zone Empowerment Forum at the MET Atlanta in Southwest Atlanta. Two panels of experts covered different aspects of the new tools. The audience heard from organizations including Invest Atlanta, HUD, Impact Fund, Community Reinvestment Fund, Urban League, UGA Small Business Development Center, and the Georgia Tech Minority Business Development Center.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe City of Atlanta also recently published an \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/assets/city_of_atlanta_oz_prospectus_2019_1ORmaZa.pdf\"\u003eOpportunity Zone Prospectus\u003c/a\u003e to educate potential investors about Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economy, economic development tools, and the demographics and opportunities within each Opportunity Zone. Within Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Opportunity Zones, the City and its economic development partners, including Central Atlanta Progress, The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, and Invest Atlanta, have identified a diverse set of investment opportunities within commercial real estate and operating businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLooking ahead, Invest Atlanta will continue to push a proactive strategy of connecting qualified investors to place-based initiatives, development projects, and businesses seeking investment capital located within the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Federal Opportunity Zones.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe primary focus will be to facilitate and streamline the connection process between investors and projects within Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Opportunity Zones and ensure that Atlanta is well positioned for investments in catalytic projects that can make a significant social and economic impact for the city.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":269,"title":"Co-Living Model Provides New Pathway to Affordable Housing","promo_title":"Co-Living Model Provides New Pathway to Affordable Housing","published_date":"2019-05-16","featured_image":{"id":902,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"memorial_coliving_v2.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1412542,"resource_updated_at":"2019-05-16T14:19:24.077-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-05-16T14:19:24.155-04:00","updated_at":"2019-05-21T11:54:51.917-04:00","filename_hash":"memorial_coliving_v2_1OLjmVw.png","width":1200,"height":618},"filename":"new-co-living-model-provides-new-pathway-to-affordable-housing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"_8Qr1A","created_at":"2019-05-16T14:20:16.403-04:00","updated_at":"2019-05-21T11:54:51.854-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors, under the leadership of Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, approved support for two new co-living developments. This marks the first time IA has supported this type of co-living development, which offers a new solution for the creation of new affordable housing in Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors, under the leadership of Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, approved support for two new co-living developments. This marks the first time IA has supported this type of co-living development, which offers a new solution for the creation of new affordable housing in Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board approved $22 million lease-purchase bond financing for the construction of 176 multifamily housing at the 1061 Memorial development. Twenty-seven of the units (15% of the total) will be restricted to\u0026nbsp;80% AMI.\u0026nbsp;In addition, the Board approved $32 million lease-purchase bond financing for Englewood, a 250-unit multifamily housing development in the Chosewood Park community. Thirty-eight of the units will be restricted to those earning 80% AMI or below.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWhile all 426 units are projected to be affordable to those earning 80% AMI or below, 65 of the units will be restricted as affordable workforce housing to comply to the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s inclusionary zoning policy. This policy requires new developments within the Atlanta BeltLine Overlay District to restrict 15% of the units at 80% Area Median Income (AMI) or 10% of the units at 60% AMI. (Current HUD income limits can be found \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/developers/opportunities-incentives/residential-housing-incentives\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e.)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCo-Living is a modern, high-quality approach that is meant to serve the over 25 million American adults who currently live with roommates. Co-Living offers those who can\u0026#39;t afford to live alone in a studio\u0026nbsp;a better experience than the typical roommate share (whether sharing with friends or sharing with strangers via Craigslist). The co-living model provides residents with a private bedroom, a stocked shared kitchen, weekly cleaning services, free laundry, and communal living spaces.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;ve been working here in Atlanta on market-rate affordable housing\u0026nbsp;for the last 10 years or so,\u0026rdquo; said Derrick Barker of the developer Civitas. \u0026ldquo;We are doing anything we can to harness market forces to build more affordable units.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":264,"title":"Mayor Bottoms Announces $60 Million in Funding for Affordable Housing","promo_title":"Mayor Bottoms Announces $60 Million in Funding for Affordable Housing","published_date":"2019-04-26","featured_image":{"id":879,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"mayor_final.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1105645,"resource_updated_at":"2019-05-02T10:33:43.455-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-05-02T10:33:43.592-04:00","updated_at":"2021-03-24T16:17:21.066-04:00","filename_hash":"mayor_final_YBmnyNm.png","width":1200,"height":535},"filename":"mayor-bottoms-announces-60-million-in-funding-for-affordable-housing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"PQ5-Iw","created_at":"2019-04-26T09:02:10.745-04:00","updated_at":"2019-07-11T15:02:30.461-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, in partnership with Atlanta Housing and Invest Atlanta,\u0026nbsp;announced $60 million in new spending for affordable housing projects.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, in partnership with Atlanta Housing and Invest Atlanta, announced $60 million in new spending for affordable housing projects. The new funds were approved by Atlanta Housing Board of Commissioners at a meeting on Wednesday, April 24. The funds are projected to create and preserve more than 2,000 new affordable housing units in the city of Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003eMayor Bottoms has pledged to leverage $1 billion towards housing affordability to produce and preserve 20,000 units of affordable housing within the city of Atlanta by 2026. With this new funding, the Bottoms Administration has reached 20 percent of this goal to deliver a range of new affordable housing units and programing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003eThe new funds will be used to build units, preserve existing affordable units and spur community revitalization through investment in new or existing multifamily developments and rehabilitation of owner-occupied single-family homes. These funds will be used to develop quality affordable housing in the City of Atlanta through co-investment funds with Invest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u0026quot;This is a prime example of what can happen when government, the private sector, and our nonprofit partners join together for the common good,\u0026quot;\u0026nbsp;said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026quot;Today represents the new era of cooperation among our public and private partners that will help Atlanta remain a place where working families, and residents at all income levels, can afford to live and build their dreams as we become One Atlanta.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u0026quot;This historic collaboration between the City of Atlanta, Invest Atlanta and Atlanta Housing shows that by working together, we can accomplish the mayor\u0026#39;s goal of creating $1 billion in affordable housing,\u0026quot; said Dr. Christopher Edwards, chairman of the AH Board of Commissioners.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u0026quot;This new funding is the result of true inter-agency collaboration,\u0026quot; said Terri Lee, City of Atlanta Chief Housing Officer. \u0026quot;By creating new affordable housing mechanisms, and having a laser-like focus in identifying funding opportunities, we can continue to help make Atlanta a city that everyone can call home.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u0026quot;We, along with our partners, are focused on providing more affordable housing units throughout the city,\u0026quot; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026quot;Funding injections like this one will add to our already expansive and robust affordable housing toolkit to ensure greater equity and economic mobility in the City of Atlanta.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003eThe funding will be used towards several new and ongoing affordable housing programs, such as:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMultifamily Gap Financing\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;to support for new construction and acquisition or rehabilitation of multifamily properties within the City of Atlanta for long-term affordability.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSmall Urban Infill Financing\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;to provide funding for small multifamily properties less than 100 units and single-family infill development with mixed-income affordability.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeritage Owner-Occupied Rehab Program\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;$10 million allocation to the Heritage ORR Program, a joint effort from partners including Invest Atlanta, City of Atlanta, the Atlanta Housing Authority, Choice Atlanta, Synergy Real Estate, and several other organizations to help lower-income residents remain in their homes and avoid displacement.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"color: rgb(38, 38, 38); font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;\"\u003eThe City of Atlanta has worked closely with Invest Atlanta, Atlanta Housing, and the Atlanta Beltline on several recent affordable housing developments. These include the affordable senior housing developments The Remington, Gateway Capitol View, Legacy at Vine City, and the Madison Reynoldstown.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":262,"title":"Invest Atlanta Hosts Financial Literacy Event For Young Adults","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Hosts Financial Literacy Event For Young Adults","published_date":"2019-04-22","featured_image":{"id":867,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"financial_literacy_event_mc.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1179579,"resource_updated_at":"2019-04-23T09:03:07.783-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2019-04-23T09:03:07.869-04:00","updated_at":"2019-04-23T09:03:20.462-04:00","filename_hash":"financial_literacy_event_mc_7J7elM6.png","width":1200,"height":536},"filename":"invest-atlanta-hosts-financial-literacy-event-for-young-adults","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"e9N3uA","created_at":"2019-04-22T11:02:30.061-04:00","updated_at":"2019-04-23T09:03:20.442-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The sold-out event\u0026nbsp;provided tips, tools, and tricks for making wise financial decisions both now and in the future.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTo celebrate Financial Literacy Month, Invest Atlanta hosted a financial literacy event and panel on April 11 to highlight the importance of financial literacy in millennials and young adults. The sold-out event provided tips, tools, and tricks for making wise financial decisions both now and in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Many people do not understand the importance of savings, credit, and the possibility of homeownership at a young age,\u0026rdquo; said Heide Billings, Homeownership Mortgage Loan Coordinator at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;We want to help guide and bridge the gap between young people and financial literacy.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe event began with networking followed by a panel of financial experts. Panelists included Robbie Pemberton and Kimberly Guiders of Regions Bank, Mitch Brown of Resources for Residents \u0026amp; Communities, Mendi C. Morrow of the Georgia Student Finance Commission, Kwame Tyler of State Farm, and Anita Allgood of Invest Atlanta. The panel was moderated by Edwin McDonald of Resources for Residents \u0026amp; Communities and Heide Billings of Invest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePanelists discussed a wide range of topics including how and why to build credit, affordable housing, auto insurance quotes, and more. Attendees were also able to have one-on-one sessions with the panelists to gain more insight and ask in-depth questions. \u0026quot;We are so happy and satisfied that the event turned out to be a success,\u0026quot; said Billings.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Homebuying/ Homeownership\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":257,"title":"New Affordable Housing Developments Demonstrate Power of Partnerships","promo_title":"New Affordable Housing Developments Demonstrate Power of Partnerships","published_date":"2019-03-26","featured_image":{"id":846,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"milton_mc.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":914872,"resource_updated_at":"2019-03-26T16:19:06.807-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-03-26T16:19:06.939-04:00","updated_at":"2019-07-11T15:04:43.713-04:00","filename_hash":"milton_mc_6abenrq.png","width":1200,"height":536},"filename":"new-affordable-housing-developments-demonstrate-power-of-partnerships","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"bbrsHA","created_at":"2019-03-26T16:19:57.200-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-27T10:18:17.724-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Last week at its monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors supported the preservation or creation of 288 multifamily rental housing units, 232 of which will be available to those earning 60 percent of Area Median Income (AMI) or below.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLast week at its monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors supported the preservation or creation of 288 multifamily rental housing units, 232 of which will be available to those earning 60 percent of Area Median Income (AMI) or below.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board approved support from tax-exempt bond financing and the Atlanta BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund for two large multifamily developments\u0026mdash;Madison Reynoldstown and 55 Milton\u0026mdash;both of which sit along the Atlanta BeltLine. Another item receiving approval allowed for the negotiation of a long-term ground lease that will allow the Westside Future Fund to redevelop four properties into 36 units of quality, affordable housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;When we work together to tackle key issues like affordable housing, great things can happen,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;Ensuring that more people in the City of Atlanta have access to safe, quality, affordable housing is a major component of our One Atlanta vision. Our actions represent another step in the right direction, and I am looking forward to increasing Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s affordable housing inventory as the year progresses.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Today\u0026rsquo;s actions to create and preserve affordable housing in the City of Atlanta demonstrate the power of partnerships,\u0026rdquo; said Terri Lee, Chief Housing Officer, City of Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Under the leadership of Mayor Bottoms, we are working alongside Invest Atlanta, the Atlanta BeltLine, Atlanta Housing, Westside Future Fund and others to achieve long-term affordability for more of our residents. It\u0026rsquo;s particularly important for us to support developments with this kind of income mix in areas where a lot of development is happening, such as Memorial Drive and the Atlanta BeltLine.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWestside Neighborhoods\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nOver the last four years, Invest Atlanta has acquired vacant properties in Westside with the intent to preserve and create affordable housing in these neighborhoods. The Invest Atlanta Board authorized the negotiation of a long-term ground lease with Westside Future Fund on four properties to allow for the complete renovation of 20 units and new construction of up to 16 units of affordable rental housing.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe long-term lease partnership structure between Invest Atlanta and the Westside Future Fund will ensure a greater level of affordability for a longer duration on these properties. Once complete, 36 units will be available to households with incomes from 30 percent to 60 percent AMI, in perpetuity.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Rapidly accelerating affordable housing development across income levels requires a coordinated approach from the City, agencies and our partners,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;We need to continually challenge ourselves and our partners to find new approaches to addressing this issue and fully leverage our available resources. With these board items, Invest Atlanta has facilitated the creation of more than 1,200 affordable housing units since 2018 as part Mayor Bottoms\u0026#39; affordable housing strategy.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMadison Reynoldstown\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe Invest Atlanta Board approved $17 million in tax-exempt bond financing and a $2 million grant from the BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund to finance the construction of Madison Reynoldstown, which will sit along Memorial Drive with direct frontage to the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. The 116-unit multifamily development will have 78 units set aside for those earning 60 percent AMI or below with remaining units available up to 80 percent of AMI.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe partnership on this property is a unique one with Atlanta Housing, who will acquire the site from Atlanta BeltLine and ground lease it to Rea Ventures Group to develop. AHA is also providing $8.5 million in financing and the property will have 46 HomeFlex units that allow tenants to pay no more than 30 percent of their income on rent.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis development represents an important opportunity to preserve affordability along Memorial Drive and shows a path forward in the collective approach to achieving affordability on the Atlanta BeltLine, with private and public partners all playing different roles.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are glad to support the City\u0026rsquo;s vision in making strides toward a more equitable and inclusive Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Clyde Higgs, President and CEO of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. \u0026ldquo;ABI and its partners are proactively securing affordability around future segments of the Atlanta BeltLine such as the Southside Trail, to ensure legacy residents can continue to thrive in their communities and benefit from the opportunities the Atlanta BeltLine brings.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003e55 Milton\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe Invest Atlanta Board approved $17.5 million in tax-exempt bond financing and $2 million in funding from the BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund for 55 Milton, a 136-unit multifamily rental housing development that will have 118 units set aside for households earning 60 percent AMI or below. The affordable units will consist of a healthy mix of units for those restricted to the 40 percent, 60 percent and 80 percent AMI levels.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e55 Milton will be located along the Atlanta BeltLine Southside Trail in the Peoplestown neighborhood.\u0026nbsp; The Prestwick Companies previously worked with Invest Atlanta on Gateway Capitol View, a 162-unit affordable senior housing rental development that opened last year in Southwest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":254,"title":"Campbellton Road Businesses Receive Support","promo_title":"Campbellton Road Businesses Receive Support","published_date":"2019-03-18","featured_image":{"id":836,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"campbellton_rd_volunteer.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1722525,"resource_updated_at":"2019-03-18T11:43:05.447-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-03-18T11:43:05.855-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-18T13:26:22.065-04:00","filename_hash":"campbellton_rd_volunteer_MYML35o.png","width":1200,"height":693},"filename":"campbellton-road-small-business-support","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"U1l27Q","created_at":"2019-03-18T11:43:59.212-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-18T13:25:36.640-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The\u0026nbsp;Campbellton Road Small Businesses Renovation Program, a partnership between Wells Fargo, Rebuilding Together Atlanta, the City of Atlanta, and Invest Atlanta has helped to renovate three businesses on Campbellton Road.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe\u0026nbsp;Campbellton Road Small Businesses Renovation Program, a partnership between Wells Fargo, Rebuilding Together Atlanta, the City of Atlanta, and Invest Atlanta has helped to renovate three businesses on Campbellton Road. Applicants had to own or operate a business located on Campbellton Road, earn $200,000 or less in gross annual revenue, and have been in continuous operation since November 1, 2017 to be eligible.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe three recipients of renovation funding were Senegambia Restaurant, Hot Chixx Wings ATL, and Getting Ahead Barbershop.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOn Wednesday, March 13, volunteers from the partner organizations volunteered their time to do the painting work that was part of the renovations at \u003ca href=\"https://www.senegambiarestaurant.com/\"\u003eSenegambia Restaurant\u003c/a\u003e, which serves a variety of West African, Caribbean and American cuisine. Besides new interior painting, the restaurant received new commercial grade cooking equipment, bathroom upgrades, and walk-in cooler repair.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Hair-Salon/Getting-A-Head-BarberShop-1535606126661773/\"\u003eGetting Ahead Barbershop\u003c/a\u003e has been able to purchase new barber chairs, dryer/chair combos, fans, and ceiling tiles.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s not just my business, it belongs to the people and the Atlanta community,\u0026rdquo; said owner Paul Lockhart. \u0026ldquo;They deserve something nice. Our mission statement is serving and preserving the community.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe walk-in cooler and freezer outdoor units were replaced at \u003ca href=\"http://www.hottchixxwings.com/\"\u003eHot Chixx Wings ATL\u003c/a\u003e, allowing them to expand their menu. They also had their indoor cooling units serviced, chairs repairs, and new paint applied to the interior walls.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I love Campbellton Road for giving my family this chance to realize our passion \u0026ndash; food,\u0026rdquo; said Fostoria Dumas. \u0026ldquo;The menu has mostly fast food options, but we are planning to add a few healthier choices, once our cooler/freezer are repaired.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":251,"title":"Mayor Bottoms Recognizes Owner-Occupied Rehab Participant at State of the City","promo_title":"Mayor Bottoms Recognizes Owner-Occupied Rehab Participant at State of the City","published_date":"2019-03-14","featured_image":{"id":833,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"jackson_orr_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1274319,"resource_updated_at":"2019-03-14T13:57:05.594-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-03-14T13:57:05.973-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-15T08:59:41.488-04:00","filename_hash":"jackson_orr_insight_mpWJnjx.png","width":1200,"height":614},"filename":"mayor-bottoms-recognizes-owner-occupied-rehab-participant-at-state-of-the-city","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"K8SBtQ","created_at":"2019-03-14T14:01:11.219-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-15T08:59:41.448-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n In her State of the City speech, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms recognized Carolyn Jackson as a great example of how the Heritage Owner-Occupied Rehab program has helped keep longtime residents in their homes.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn her State of the City speech, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms recognized Carolyn Jackson as a great example of how the \u003ca href=\"/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab\"\u003eHeritage Owner-Occupied Rehab\u003c/a\u003e program has helped keep longtime residents in their homes.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Thanks to the Owner-Occupied Rehab Program, Mrs. Jackson will now be able to remain in the house she has called home for more than four decades,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;She has not quit on Atlanta, and the City of Atlanta has not quit on her.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMrs. Jackson has lived in her southwest Atlanta home for more than four decades. She is the widow of a military veteran and worked at Grady Hospital for thirty as years as a Certified Nursing Assistance specializing in adolescent clinical care.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m totally satisfied,\u0026rdquo; said Mrs. Jackson when asked about her experience with the program. \u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m just thankful I was picked to participate in the program.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs a recipient of a forgivable Heritage Owner Occupied Rehab loan, she has been able to afford critical health and safety repairs on her home. She had plenty of necessary work done, including work on her roof, new gutters, and new paint on the exterior of her home.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHere is the portion of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/mayor-s-office/executive-offices/office-of-communications/2019-state-of-the-city\"\u003eState of the City\u003c/a\u003e remarks about Mrs. Jackson:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eGentrification is no justification for pushing people out of neighborhoods who\u0026#39;ve been there for decades \u0026ndash; people like Carolyn Jackson.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eMrs. Jackson has lived in her home in Southwest Atlanta for 42 years.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eShe lost her husband when he was just 33 years old.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eShe raised two children on her own, working at Grady Hospital as a Certified Nursing Assistant for 30\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nyears.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eShe is currently caring for her 15-year-old grandson.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eLike many seniors, she\u0026rsquo;s found it challenging to keep up with major home repairs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eLast year, Invest Atlanta established the Owner-Occupied Rehab Program to help people like Mrs.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nJackson.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eThrough forgivable loans, Mrs. Jackson fixed her roof and repaired leaks throughout her house.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eThanks to the Owner-Occupied Rehab Program, Mrs. Jackson will now be able to remain in the house she has called home for more than four decades.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp style=\"margin-left: 40px;\"\u003eShe has not quit on Atlanta, and the City of Atlanta has not quit on her.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Heritage ORR Program is a joint effort from partners including Invest Atlanta, City of Atlanta, the Atlanta Housing Authority, Choice Atlanta, Synergy Real Estate, and several other organizations, implemented the program to help lower-income residents remain in their homes and avoid displacement.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMayor Bottoms reiterated her pledge to leverage $1 billion dollars towards housing affordability and her goal to produce and preserve 20,000 units of affordable housing within the City of Atlanta by 2026.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Homebuying/ Homeownership\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":253,"title":"Invest Atlanta Launches NPU-V Small Business Improvement Grant Program","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Launches NPU-V Small Business Improvement Grant Program","published_date":"2019-03-11","featured_image":{"id":835,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"npuv_sbig.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1099365,"resource_updated_at":"2019-03-15T12:52:13.712-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-03-15T12:52:13.787-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-27T09:19:06.902-04:00","filename_hash":"npuv_sbig_OPBxzRQ.png","width":1200,"height":470},"filename":"invest-atlanta-launches-npu-v-small-business-improvement-grant-program","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"yYsvgg","created_at":"2019-03-15T12:53:52.543-04:00","updated_at":"2019-03-27T09:19:06.853-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The NPU-V Small Business Improvement Grant (NPU-V SBIG) program will help strengthen local businesses in certain neighborhoods located in Southwest Atlanta by providing grants toward improvements intended to make small businesses more attractive to customers.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe NPU-V Small Business Improvement Grant (NPU-V SBIG) program will help strengthen local businesses in certain neighborhoods located in Southwest Atlanta by providing grants toward improvements intended to make small businesses more attractive to customers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eQualified business or property owners in the Mechanicsville, Pittsburgh, and Summerhill neighborhoods can receive between $3,000 and $10,00 for eligible exterior and interior renovations. Applications are available \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/npu-v-small-business-improvement-program\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e and due May 3, 2019.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNPU-V SBIG aims to enhance the appearance of commercial areas in the neighborhoods of Mechanicsville, Pittsburgh, and Peoplestown to help new and established businesses attract customers and increase revenues, attract more businesses to the area, and build safer, more attractive and stable neighborhoods. The funding has been made available by the Annie E. Casey Foundation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEligible applicants must be occupied by an operating business licensed by the City of Atlanta that have a minimum 3-year lease. A minimum of 50% of NPU-V SBIG funds must be used for exterior improvements to the property. Additional application requirements and eligible uses of funds can be found are located within the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/assets/npu_v_sbig_application_jp9LWxV.pdf\"\u003eNPU-V SBIG guidelines and application\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe program is part of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s larger efforts in the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s southside neighborhoods. The Campbellton Road Small Business Improvement Grant program assisted three small businesses along the southwest Atlanta commercial corridor. In addition, Invest Atlanta recently announced the hiring of Erika Smith as the Southside Community and Economic Development Manager. These announcements come after years of investing in these neighborhoods through our small business loan programs, multifamily housing financing, and homeownership incentives.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":249,"title":"True Light Haven Development to Offer 124 New Affordable Housing Units for Seniors","promo_title":"True Light Haven Development to Offer 124 New Affordable Housing Units for Seniors","published_date":"2019-02-22","featured_image":{"id":824,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"true_life_haven.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1308988,"resource_updated_at":"2019-02-22T10:36:58.040-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-02-22T10:36:58.128-05:00","updated_at":"2019-02-26T09:00:08.872-05:00","filename_hash":"true_life_haven_ZOB1eoo.png","width":1200,"height":723},"filename":"true-light-haven-development-to-offer-124-new-affordable-housing-units-for-seniors","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"JyKkKQ","created_at":"2019-02-22T10:38:53.801-05:00","updated_at":"2019-02-26T09:00:08.839-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Housing Committee approved $1.2 million in Housing Opportunity Bond financing for the construction of the 124-unit True Light Haven senior affordable housing development.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Housing Committee approved $1.2 million in Housing Opportunity Bond financing for the construction of the 124-unit True Light Haven senior affordable housing development. The Committee took action at their monthly meeting on Thursday, February 14, 2019.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOf the units, 119 will be set aside for seniors 55-years-old and above earning 60% or below the Area Median Income (AMI), and 5 units will be rented to those earning 50% AMI or below.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNational Church Residences, in partnership with True Light Baptist Church, is developing the project and will take a holistic approach to ensuring each resident can remain independent with a high quality of life.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Penelope Neighbors\u0026nbsp;is full of seniors, the area is about 95%\u0026nbsp;seniors,\u0026rdquo; said Derrick Jordan of National Church Residences. \u0026ldquo;What we\u0026rsquo;re going to do here in Atlanta, we have built a new system in the community. We have a service coordinator that will go up to 3-mile radius outside the community and help and assist seniors in that community.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnce complete, the seniors living at True Life Haven will live near the West Lake MARTA station and have access to amenities including a fitness center, a business center with computer stations, a community garden,\u0026nbsp;and a central laundry facility.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has worked with National Church Residencies before. IA provided $3.5 million in tax-exempt bond financing for the 62-unit Betmar Village senior affordable housing development in southwest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We thank you for helping the community,\u0026rdquo; said Bill Bozarth, Secretary of the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors. \u0026ldquo;You\u0026rsquo;ve done the right things, you\u0026rsquo;ve been working with the community, and we appreciate that.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":250,"title":"Sweet Auburn Technical Assistance \u0026 Predevelopment Fund Approved ","promo_title":"Sweet Auburn Technical Assistance \u0026 Predevelopment Fund Approved ","published_date":"2019-02-01","featured_image":{"id":825,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"sweet_auburn_assistance.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1500120,"resource_updated_at":"2019-02-25T15:40:15.736-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-02-25T15:40:15.882-05:00","updated_at":"2019-02-26T09:03:27.971-05:00","filename_hash":"sweet_auburn_assistance_zmpO9Dj.png","width":1200,"height":536},"filename":"sweet-auburn-technical-assistance-predevelopment-fund-approved","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ot2NhQ","created_at":"2019-02-25T15:41:38.850-05:00","updated_at":"2019-02-26T09:03:27.939-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta approved the establishment of a Real Estate Technical Assistance and Predevelopment Fund to provide resources to real estate development and economic vibrancy in the historic Sweet Auburn area.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta approved the establishment of a Real Estate Technical Assistance and Predevelopment Fund to provide resources to real estate development and economic vibrancy in the historic Sweet Auburn area. At their January 2019 monthly meeting, the Board authorized up to $500,000 in Eastside TAD funding, to be matched by $200,000 from Central Atlanta Progress (CAP).\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;This will help those in priority areas like Sweet Auburn do the work they need to do, providing them with expert support to get their projects competitive when they to apply for Eastside TAD funding,\u0026rdquo; said Jennifer Fine, Vice President of Planning and Strategic Initiatives at Invest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEastside TAD funding has been successfully deployed to assist numerous catalytic and impactful projects throughout the TAD. As more projects apply for funding, there is an opportunity to focus on activating projects in areas within the TAD that have struggled to realize economic development vitality.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, much of the underutilized land in Sweet Auburn is owned by local, longstanding religious institutions and nonprofits, many of whom do not have experience with real estate development. These organizations may lack knowledge about real estate, financing, and historic rehabilitation that could hinder them as they pursued available funding resources, including support through the Eastside TAD.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith community engagement support from Sweet Works, Inc., Invest Atlanta, and CAP will expedite delivery of predevelopment support and technical assistance utilizing contracted independent consultants to the broad range of eligible property owners, businesses, and institutions. This support will enable a more complete project application when it is submitted for TAD construction funding in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAll property owners within the Sweet Auburn Area will be eligible to request technical assistance from CAP. Experts will provide assistance with feasibility and financial analysis, design services, and cost estimation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":244,"title":"Westside Warmup Kicks Off Super Bowl Activities in Southwest Atlanta","promo_title":"Westside Warmup Kicks Off Super Bowl Activities in Southwest Atlanta","published_date":"2019-01-31","featured_image":{"id":801,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"151a3166-2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":4456465,"resource_updated_at":"2019-01-31T09:57:17.634-05:00","caption":"Westside Warmup 2","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-01-31T09:57:17.911-05:00","updated_at":"2019-01-31T10:19:55.538-05:00","filename_hash":"151a3166-2_W1orMEj.jpg","width":5760,"height":3237},"filename":"westside-warmup-kicks-off-super-bowl-activities-in-southwest-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"3B2HvQ","created_at":"2019-01-31T10:17:23.136-05:00","updated_at":"2019-01-31T10:19:55.507-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Supported by Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., the City of Atlanta Planning Department, and Invest Atlanta, the Westside Warmup brought community and business leaders together to showcase Southwest Atlanta in the days leading up to the Super Bowl.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSupported by Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., the City of Atlanta Planning Department, and Invest Atlanta, the Westside Warmup brought community and business leaders together to showcase Southwest Atlanta in the days leading up to the Super Bowl.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe purpose of the event was to highlight the unique neighborhoods, rich culture, and growing businesses in the area. \u0026ldquo;With upwards of $2 billion in tourism dollars anticipated, ABI wanted to help facilitate an event in historic southwest Atlanta for community businesses to take advantage of the Super Bowl economy,\u0026rdquo; said Clyde Higgs, interim President and CEO of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe event took place across three locations near the Atlanta Beltline Westside Trail. Activities began at the West End MARTA Station soccer fields, StationSoccer.\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.soccerstreets.org/station-soccer-play\"\u003eStationSoccer\u003c/a\u003e, a program by Soccer in the Streets, is the world\u0026rsquo;s first transit soccer league and hosted soccer matches for both children and adults. The South Atlanta High School drumline also performed throughout the beginning of the event to get guests excited for the remainder of festivities.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nFollowing the activities at StationSoccer, the South Atlanta High School drumline led guests down Lee Street to\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.leeandwhiteatl.com/\"\u003eLee + White\u003c/a\u003e, the West End\u0026rsquo;s newest food and beverage district. In addition to local craft brewery Monday Night Garage hosting happy hour, there were jazz musical performances by the Atlanta Music Project, football skills courses, kombucha tastings from Cultured South, and various food vendors.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003ca href=\"https://www.640westatl.com/\"\u003e640 West Caf\u0026eacute;\u003c/a\u003e, a community caf\u0026eacute; and event space, was the final stop of the event and featured live music, artists performances, and a vendor market with more than 40 participants featuring local food, artists, businesses, and artisans.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;To get a truly authentic Atlanta experience, you have to come to the westside,\u0026rdquo; said Higgs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n West End\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":242,"title":"New Markets Tax Credits and TAD Financing Approved for Quest Nonprofit Center for Change","promo_title":"New Markets Tax Credits and TAD Financing Approved for Quest Nonprofit Center for Change","published_date":"2019-01-24","featured_image":{"id":788,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"qncc.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2481692,"resource_updated_at":"2019-01-24T09:32:39.234-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2019-01-24T09:32:39.328-05:00","updated_at":"2019-06-10T16:23:43.062-04:00","filename_hash":"qncc_zmpLVNW.png","width":1741,"height":750},"filename":"new-markets-tax-credits-and-tad-financing-approved-for-quest-nonprofit-center-for-change","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"xa5cuw","created_at":"2019-01-24T09:33:57.785-05:00","updated_at":"2019-01-24T09:37:33.965-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta and Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. recently closed transactions to fund construction of the Quest Nonprofit Center for Change on Atlanta\u0026#39;s Westside.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta and its affiliate Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) recently closed transactions to fund construction of the Quest Nonprofit Center for Change (QNCC) on Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside. The Quest Community Development Organization will transform a commercial strip center into a catalytic project that will provide new space for neighborhood-oriented commercial and nonprofit tenants.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Quest Nonprofit Center for Change will bring together nonprofits and socially responsible businesses under one roof to provide resources to the Westside. In addition to the nonprofits that will become tenants, Quest will also move its headquarters to the facility. The current site has Family Dollar as an anchor tenant with a lease that will continue with the new building.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOver the last 15 years, the Quest Community Development Organization has provided affordable, supportive housing and services to homeless and low-income men and women so that they may become self-sufficient. The majority of Quest\u0026rsquo;s services are provided to those who suffer from mental illnesses, substance abuse, or other chronic health conditions.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta and AEMI provided two types of funding for the project. Invest Atlanta provided a $500,000 Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) grant, passed by the Board of Directors in November 2018, and AEMI provided $7.5 million in New Markets Tax Credits with SunTrust as the tax credit investor, passed in January 2019.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe $10.8 million project is located at 305 Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard Northwest, selected for its proximity to Quest\u0026rsquo;s housing developments and clients. QNCC and its tenant businesses will support 80 full-time jobs, and employees will be identified in part through partnerships with local organizations including the Center for Working Families and Westside Works.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eQNCC will also provide 25,000 pounds of fresh produce annually by increasing Westside Grower\u0026rsquo;s capacity by 150%, offer case management and supportive services to 650 people each year, provide 4,000 people with financial education and empowerment, and improve access to commercial goods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe development will be the first-class B office space in Vine City, with more than 26,000 square feet of leasable space. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2019 and be completed by November 2019. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":241,"title":"Invest Atlanta Board Supports New Affordable Housing for Southwest Atlanta and Westside Neighborhoods","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Board Supports New Affordable Housing for Southwest Atlanta and Westside Neighborhoods","published_date":"2019-01-17","featured_image":{"id":783,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"hartland_station_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1318023,"resource_updated_at":"2019-01-17T09:55:07.134-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":3,"created_at":"2019-01-17T09:55:07.200-05:00","updated_at":"2019-01-22T08:54:39.841-05:00","filename_hash":"hartland_station_insight_jpkKXjV.png","width":1200,"height":609},"filename":"invest-atlanta-board-supports-new-affordable-housing-for-southwest-atlanta-and-westside-neighborhoods","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"7Th_JA","created_at":"2019-01-17T14:08:54.171-05:00","updated_at":"2019-01-22T08:54:39.807-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for several affordable housing developments at the board\u0026rsquo;s first meetings of 2019.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMayor Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for several affordable housing developments at the board\u0026rsquo;s first meetings of 2019. The projects will bring new affordable rental units along one of the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s most important emerging commercial corridors, as well as affordable for-sale properties in the Westside neighborhoods of Vine City and English Avenue.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We continue to focus on new and different solutions to meet Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s affordable housing needs,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;Achieving our vision for One Atlanta will require providing support for an array of housing options for our legacy residents. Our actions represent a good first step for us as we look to make significant progress toward that goal in 2019.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;As Atlanta continues to grow, we need to be even more strategic and resourceful in finding ways to achieve affordability throughout the city,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;These three projects represent the type of thinking needed to make affordable living in the city an option for many more residents. Long-term ground leases, land trust models, and layered financing strategies give us a bigger toolbox to work with and opportunities to address more of the affordability spectrum.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCityPlace Affordable Housing\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Board approved a loan increase of up to $1,000,000 from the Vine City Housing Trust Fund to Place Properties to construct affordable modular single-family homes for sale in the English Avenue and Vine City neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePreviously, Place Properties completed an initial home located at 621 James P. Brawley and will use this funding to complete 5 additional residences. At the board\u0026rsquo;s direction, Place Properties and Invest Atlanta staff collaborated to make the homes affordable with lower-cost designs and did so through modular design and varied housing styles and structures, including duplexes, triplexes, and grannie flats.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe next five units for sale will have target price points between $135,000-$160,000, a significant reduction from the original target price point. With down payment assistance programs, the homes could potentially be available to households earning between 60 to 80 percent of the area median income (AMI). These homes will also be Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s first completed properties placed within the Atlanta Land Trust, which will provide permanent homeownership affordability.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUrban Oasis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a loan of up to $250,000 from the Vine City Housing Trust Fund to finance construction on four single-family, for-sale homes in the English Avenue neighborhood. Sims Real Estate Group will rehab and restore three currently blighted homes and construct one new home. Once work is complete, the three rehabbed homes will be available to families earning 80 percent AMI or below, and the new home will be for sale to families earning 100-120 percent AMI. Down payment assistance will be available through Invest Atlanta for purchasers to ensure greater levels of affordability.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project fits within the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s overall strategy to make as many homes affordable for legacy residents. It does so by using a novel approach within the City of Atlanta of having a 99-year ground lease at $1 per year to eliminate land costs from the purchase price. The goal is to give these properties over to the Atlanta Land Trust to ensure affordability in perpetuity.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHartland Station\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved up to $1.3 million in pay-as-you-go grant funding from the Metropolitan Parkway TAD for the 130-unit Hartland Station multi-family development.\u0026nbsp; Invest Atlanta previously supported Hartland Station with $14 million in tax-exempt bond and gap financing.\u0026nbsp; The development will be a modern garden style, 3-story community aimed at revitalizing a portion of an underserved commercial corridor along Metropolitan Parkway in the Sylvan Hills neighborhood.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHartland Station will include 40 units set aside for those earning 50 percent AMI and below and 70 units set aside for those earning 60 percent AMI or below. This residential community will be equipped with several amenities including a business center, a picnic area, tot lots and an exercise room. To ensure this level of affordability, Invest Atlanta is providing additional layers of financing, including tax-exempt bonds and a Housing Opportunity Bond loan. This level of affordability will be in place for 30 years.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThrough its various affordable housing strategies, Invest Atlanta continues to play a key role in helping the Mayor Bottoms and City of Atlanta bring more affordability to the city. In 2018, Invest Atlanta supported the creation of 926 units of affordable housing intended for residents earning 30 to 80 percent AMI.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":238,"title":"Heritage Owner-Occupied Rehab Is Helping Lifelong Residents Make Critical Repairs","promo_title":"Heritage Owner-Occupied Rehab Is Helping Lifelong Residents Make Critical Repairs","published_date":"2019-01-09","featured_image":{"id":781,"parent_id":1,"resource_file_name":"oor_roof.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":539996,"resource_updated_at":"2019-01-09T10:57:35.384-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-01-09T10:57:35.450-05:00","updated_at":"2019-03-08T13:42:41.143-05:00","filename_hash":"oor_roof_kb4Bg7y.jpg","width":2500,"height":1194},"filename":"owner-occupied-rehab-is-helping-life-long-residents-make-critical-repairs","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"kDJWNQ","created_at":"2019-01-09T10:58:29.631-05:00","updated_at":"2019-03-08T13:42:41.105-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Jeanette Henderson is Atlanta native and has been a homeowner in the City of Atlanta for 55 years. As a recipient of a forgivable\u0026nbsp;Heritage Owner Occupied Rehab\u0026nbsp;loan, Henderson is able to afford critical health and safety repairs on her home.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eJeanette Henderson is Atlanta native and has been a homeowner in the City of Atlanta for 65 years. As a recipient of a forgivable\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"/homebuyers/owner-occupied-rehab\"\u003eHeritage Owner Occupied Rehab\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;loan, Henderson is able to afford critical health and safety repairs on her home.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nInvest Atlanta, with support from the City of Atlanta, the Atlanta Housing Authority, Choice Atlanta, Executive Realty Solutions, and several other organizations, implemented the program to help lower-income residents remain in their homes and avoid displacement. After a successful pilot program in the Vince City and English Avenue neighborhoods, the program was able to expand.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe program serves senior households aged 55 and older, military veterans, disabled head of households, and those that have been in their homes for 15 or more years. \u0026ldquo;A lot of people don\u0026rsquo;t think about the seniors,\u0026rdquo; said Henderson. \u0026ldquo;I think the program is a nice thing for senior citizens because seniors don\u0026rsquo;t really have a lot of money to get these things done.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nHenderson bought her home because she was interested in being a homeowner instead of renting an apartment in Atlanta. With her loan, she is able to remove mold, install new planks, treat and repair termite damage, repair her hot water tank, upgrade pipes, and replace her stairs.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;Some seniors can afford to get some things done but they can\u0026rsquo;t afford to get\u0026nbsp;\u003cem\u003eeverything\u003c/em\u003e\u0026nbsp;done,\u0026rdquo; said Henderson. \u0026ldquo;This program was a great idea!\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe Heritage Owner Occupied Rehab programs are part of Mayor Bottoms\u0026rsquo; larger goal of investing $1 billion from public and private sources to support affordable housing in Atlanta, the largest such investment in our city\u0026rsquo;s history.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Homebuying/ Homeownership\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":234,"title":"Emory Proton Therapy Center Opens in Midtown","promo_title":"Emory Proton Therapy Center Opens in Midtown","published_date":"2018-12-10","featured_image":{"id":774,"parent_id":1,"resource_file_name":"ribbom_full03_1544457569_.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpg","resource_file_size":135823,"resource_updated_at":"2018-12-10T10:59:29.609-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-12-10T10:59:29.638-05:00","updated_at":"2018-12-10T11:02:42.238-05:00","filename_hash":"ribbom_full03_1544457569__mpgD1LR.jpg","width":1024,"height":486},"filename":"emory-proton-therapy-center-opens-in-midtown","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"GzlI7A","created_at":"2018-12-10T10:56:39.593-05:00","updated_at":"2018-12-10T10:59:38.817-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Emory Proton Therapy Center will create 128 jobs, a projected $500 million economic impact, and treat nearly 35,000 patients over the next 20 years.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Winship Cancer Institute held the grand opening of the Emory Proton Therapy Center on December 6 in Midtown. More than 150 special guests were in attendance to witness the ribbon cutting for this cutting-edge facility.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Emory Proton Therapy Center is approximately 170,000 square feet with three levels housing a cyclotron, treatment rooms, examinations rooms, and administrative space. The new facility will treat nearly 35,000 patients over the next 20 years and will further solidify the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s reputation as a global healthcare destination.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eProton therapy is a highly advanced form of radiation therapy that can provide cancer patients with fewer side effects and complications and an increased likelihood of superior outcomes in comparison to surgery, chemotherapy, and other conventional radiation therapy options. The first patient was treated at the Center on December 4.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta board unanimously supported the Center by agreeing to issue up to $400 million in tax-exempt 501(c)(3) bonds, with proceeds going toward final construction costs and refinancing the project\u0026rsquo;s debt.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The support we received from Invest Atlanta, Dr. Klementich, Alan Ferguson, and their executive and senior leadership was absolutely tremendous,\u0026rdquo; said Steve Hicks, President \u0026amp; CEO of Provident Resources Group.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Center is a part of North Avenue\u0026rsquo;s expanding medical technology district and will bring 128 permanent medical jobs and a projected $500 million economic impact to Midtown. It is the first facility of its kind in Georgia and one of 25 in the United States.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe closest facility offering similar treatment was in Jacksonville, FL. Now, the Emory Proton Therapy Center is a more accessible option for local patients looking to receive advanced treatments for brain, spine, breast, and other types of cancer.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;On behalf of the City of Atlanta and the Invest Atlanta team, we are excited to have been a part of the economic impact that this will have on our city,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;But most importantly, we are excited to be a part of saving lives. We look forward to celebrating life, and longer lives, in the City of Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Midtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":232,"title":"Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Invest Atlanta Announce New Resources to Assist Atlanta Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs","promo_title":"Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Invest Atlanta Announce New Resources to Assist Atlanta Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs","published_date":"2018-11-29","featured_image":{"id":770,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"southside_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1540253,"resource_updated_at":"2018-11-29T14:30:18.021-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-11-29T14:30:18.104-05:00","updated_at":"2019-01-30T09:54:20.409-05:00","filename_hash":"southside_insight_ZO3g2ve.png","width":1252,"height":700},"filename":"mayor-keisha-lance-bottoms-and-invest-atlanta-announce-new-resources-to-assist-atlanta-small-businesses-and-entrepreneurs","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Vt_dkA","created_at":"2018-11-29T14:31:39.188-05:00","updated_at":"2018-11-30T07:37:37.077-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Invest Atlanta today announced the introduction of new resources to support Atlanta small businesses, including three programs focused on increasing business activity in Southside communities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Invest Atlanta\u0026nbsp;announced the introduction of new resources to support Atlanta small businesses, including three programs focused on increasing business activity in Southside communities. The new resources offered through Invest Atlanta and partner organizations will provide support to entrepreneurs and increase small business activity throughout the City of Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the unsung heroes of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economy,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;To continue growing this vital sector, we need to\u0026nbsp; untap \u0026nbsp;and foster the economic potential of more Atlanta communities. Through these new tools, we are making it easier for people to achieve the dream of being a successful entrepreneur and creating greater economic prosperity for more Atlantans.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp align=\"left\"\u003eInvest Atlanta, with support from partnering organizations, will provide three new resources focused specifically on increasing entrepreneurship and businesses activity in Southside communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSouthside Community \u0026amp; Economic Development Manager\u003c/strong\u003e: A new Invest Atlanta staff position who will serve as a point person to drive economic activity and increase economic mobility of residents while preserving Southside communities.\u0026nbsp; The Southside Manager will leverage community development resources and economic development tools to support startups and small business growth, attract private sector investment, market the area to a mix of companies, and coordinate Invest Atlanta resources around targeted place-based activities occurring in the Southside. Invest Atlanta has named current staff person Erika Smith to the position.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp align=\"left\"\u003eOne of the first priorities for the Southside Community \u0026amp; Economic Development Manager is to work with strategic partners to develop and deploy resources to small businesses along the Campbellton Road corridor and in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Mechanicsville, Peoplestown, and Pittsburgh neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCampbellton Road Small Business Renovation Program: \u003c/strong\u003eA grant program for businesses located on Campbellton Road created in partnership with Wells Fargo and Rebuilding Together Atlanta, a national not-for-profit. The program will provide up to a $12,000 for interior renovation and equipment updates to small businesses located directly on the corridor. Applications are available and due by December 3, 2018.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSmall Business Improvement Grant for Mechanicsville, Pittsburgh \u0026amp; Peoplestown\u003c/strong\u003e: A grant program through Annie E. Casey Foundation providing up to $10,000 to small business owners and tenants to make exterior and interior improvements to their buildings. The program is in development and will be launching soon.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp align=\"left\"\u003eIn addition, Invest Atlanta recently launched \u003cstrong\u003eATLInBusiness,\u003c/strong\u003e a website to provide information on how to start and grow a business in the City of Atlanta. The site provides easy access to small business information, such as how to write a business plan, and resources available through the City of Atlanta, Invest Atlanta, the Small Business Administration and other organizations. ATLInBusiness was developed by Invest Atlanta in partnership with the City of Atlanta, the Women\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurship Initiative and Welcoming Atlanta and is accessible at \u003ca href=\"http://www.atlinbusiness.com/\"\u003ewww.atlinbusiness.com\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":230,"title":"Invest Atlanta Hosts Federal Opportunity Zones Workshop","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Hosts Federal Opportunity Zones Workshop","published_date":"2018-11-20","featured_image":{"id":745,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"oz_workshop.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1087270,"resource_updated_at":"2018-11-20T09:43:55.606-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-11-20T09:43:55.734-05:00","updated_at":"2019-06-04T09:30:04.918-04:00","filename_hash":"oz_workshop_vl8LYJO.png","width":1200,"height":622},"filename":"invest-atlanta-hosts-federal-opportunity-zones-workshop","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Fmjcqw","created_at":"2018-11-20T09:44:18.888-05:00","updated_at":"2018-11-20T09:48:28.284-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n On Thursday, November 15, Invest Atlanta hosted a learning session about Federal Opportunity Zones. This new program is a new tool the City of Atlanta can use to drive investment where it is needed most.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn Thursday, November 15, Invest Atlanta hosted a learning session about Federal Opportunity Zones. This new program is a new tool the City of Atlanta can use to drive investment where it is needed most.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThese new Federal Opportunity Zones represent the first new federal incentive for community development in 15 years, with\u0026nbsp;the potential to drive millions of dollars in private investment to support our businesses and economic growth. (Through the New Markets Tax Credit Program, the federal government\u0026rsquo;s last major community development effort, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) has successfully guided over $200 million in investments to local neighborhoods.) The City of Atlanta has\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"/federal-opportunity-zones\"\u003e27 Qualified Opportunity Zones\u003c/a\u003e, and Invest Atlanta played a critical role in recommending Census Tracts to\u0026nbsp;Governor Nathan Deal for selection.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe workshop is an important first step in Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s efforts to connect eligible projects to Opportunity Zone investors. \u0026nbsp;Attendees were provided information to help them gain a greater understanding of what this new tax incentive offers and how to act. In attendance were several members of the Atlanta City Council, business owners, real estate developers, investors, and many other stakeholders. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe event featured two knowledgeable and engaging speakers. Brad Elphick is a Partner in the Atlanta office of Novogradac \u0026amp; Company, one of the nation\u0026rsquo;s leading accounting firms.\u0026nbsp;He specializes in developer consulting with an emphasis in community development financing programs. Ross Baird is President at Village Capital Group, a global leader in impact investing, who specializes in developing programs to provide venture capital for start-ups, technology businesses, and ventures that revitalize communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eElphic gave a detailed overview of how the new Federal Opportunity Zones incentive works, while Baird provided insight on what Opportunity Zones investors see as good strategies to utilize this new incentive to achieve good outcomes.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about our program, visit our Federal Opportunity Zones page \u003ca href=\"/federal-opportunity-zones\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":229,"title":"Invest Atlanta and Partners Cut the Ribbon on Innovative Springview-Summerhill Affordable Housing Community","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta and Partners Cut the Ribbon on Innovative Springview-Summerhill Affordable Housing Community","published_date":"2018-11-08","featured_image":{"id":744,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"springview_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":840670,"resource_updated_at":"2018-11-09T09:42:09.197-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-11-09T09:42:09.260-05:00","updated_at":"2018-11-09T09:43:28.019-05:00","filename_hash":"springview_insight_bzVVV5z.png","width":1000,"height":488},"filename":"invest-atlanta-and-partners-cut-the-ribbon-on-innovative-springview-summerhill-affordable-housing-community","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"lHicNQ","created_at":"2018-11-09T09:43:27.976-05:00","updated_at":"2018-11-09T09:43:27.976-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Springview, an affordable housing community located off the Cleveland Avenue corridor, is undergoing extensive improvements, including the implementation of education and community programs.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLed by Invest Atlanta President and CEO Eloisa Klementich, housing and education leaders cut the ribbon at Springview Apartments Wed., Nov. 7. The paper-chain \u0026ldquo;ribbon\u0026rdquo; was made by students at nearby Cleveland Avenue ElementarySchool. Springview, an affordable housing community located off the Cleveland Avenue corridor, is undergoing extensive improvements, including the implementation of education and community programs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The Springview-Summerdale community represents a unique collaboration between the public, private and philanthropic sectors,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This holistic approach will provide residents with high-quality housing, as well as critically important wrap-around services including after-school, summer camp and wellness programs. We are proud to be part of this partnership that will lift up the individuals and families who reside here, as well as help build stronger communities that provide greater opportunities for all Atlantans.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSpringview (and the neighboring Summerdale Apartments) were purchased this summer by TriStar, through its TriStar Community Impact Fund, with the support of Invest Atlanta and Atlanta Housing. The property received $1.5 million in funding from Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Housing Opportunity Bond program to renovate blighted units. The Atlanta Housing component is its HomeFlex Program, which is a project-based voucher program designed to provide affordable housing assistance to those living close to the poverty line. Its partnership will ensure long-term affordability at Summerdale and Springview.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Springview/Summerdale Apartments endeavor is part of Mayor Bottoms\u0026rsquo; larger goal of investing $1 billion from public and private sources to support affordable housing in Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 244-unit adjacent properties are situated off Cleveland Avenue in the City of Atlanta. The TriStar Community Impact Fund\u0026rsquo;s mission is to improve educational performance by reducing student transiency. It purchases apartments near high-need schools, stabilizing affordable housing communities by its mandate to keep rents affordable. The partner school in this effort is nearby Cleveland Avenue Elementary.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Cleveland Avenue Elementary School provides a supportive learning environment which fosters intellectual, social-emotional, and creative growth in order to prepare every student for college and career,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Anye\u0026eacute; D. Payne, the school\u0026rsquo;s principal. \u0026ldquo;After-school and other services provided by non-profits like Star-C can help our students have an even greater chance for success.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSpringview/Summerdale owner TriStar partners with Star-C, a non-profit education model with an affordable housing solution. Star-C programs assist economically disadvantaged families living in affordable housing communities by providing wraparound services ranging from after-school programs to healthcare. The apartment community\u0026rsquo;s owner contributes approximately 50 percent of the cost to operate Star-C programs; the remaining funds are sourced from foundations, donations and grants.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We know that wrap-around supports and family stability are critical factors that impact student learning and life outcomes,\u0026rdquo; says Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Maria Carstarphen. \u0026ldquo;Organizations such as Star-C can have a positive impact for students and the community, and I am appreciative of the efforts to support our APS families.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to Klementich, those on hand included Brandon Riddick-Seals, Interim CEO, Atlanta Housing; Tammie Workman, Assistant Superintendent, Student Services, Atlanta Public Schools; Duncan Gibbs and Marjy Stagmeier, Partners, TriStar Real Estate Investment; and a host of other community, housing and education leaders.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Sometimes overlooked is the important connection between education and housing, and the critical impact that housing has on the educational achievement of our children,\u0026rdquo; says Audrea Rease, Executive Director, Star-C. \u0026ldquo;With quality, affordable housing, student transiency can be reduced, and students can have improved educational outcomes. We\u0026rsquo;re ready to continue building partnerships to deploy this solution to more communities and schools across Metro Atlanta and beyond in order to promote this synergy.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":224,"title":"Invest Atlanta Announces Atlanta’s First Transit-Oriented Development Fund","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Announces Atlanta’s First Transit-Oriented Development Fund","published_date":"2018-10-17","featured_image":{"id":730,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"king_memorial_tod_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":870278,"resource_updated_at":"2018-10-17T11:37:40.346-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-10-17T11:37:40.393-04:00","updated_at":"2018-10-17T11:39:48.592-04:00","filename_hash":"king_memorial_tod_insight_npXLK1E.png","width":1000,"height":477},"filename":"invest-atlanta-announces-atlantas-first-transit-oriented-development-fund","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"JVAuWQ","created_at":"2018-10-17T11:39:48.562-04:00","updated_at":"2018-10-17T11:39:48.562-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta recently announced the creation of a $15 million transit-oriented development (TOD) fund. This $15 million pilot fund will provide below-market, patient capital to support the acquisition and pre-development of workforce housing near MARTA stations, the Atlanta Streetcar, the Atlanta BeltLine and other modes of transit.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta recently announced the creation of a $15 million transit-oriented development (TOD) fund. This $15 million pilot fund will provide below-market, patient capital to support the acquisition and pre-development of workforce housing near MARTA stations, the Atlanta Streetcar, the Atlanta BeltLine and other modes of transit. The fund will include $4.5 million of City of Atlanta Housing Opportunity Bond financing with an additional $10.5 million from Enterprise Community Loan Fund and Low Income Investment Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Every day, about 70 percent of our region commutes to a different county for work, which affects the productivity and economic output of our workforce,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Lowering a worker\u0026rsquo;s commute time by just one hour per week can effectively increase that worker\u0026rsquo;s wages by almost $1,000 annually. If we can achieve this with just 20 percent of our workforce through investments like the transition-oriented development fund, we can inject an extra $460 million into our local economy.\u0026rdquo;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe $15 million in revolving funds will be used to provide low-interest loans to non-profit and for-profit affordable housing real estate developers. This financing structure will enable developers to access capital for TOD projects at a lower cost than traditional financing options. The projects supported through the pilot program will serve as case studies to attract additional sources of capital to the fund in the future. Enterprise Community Loan Fund and Low Income Investment Fund have implemented similar funding mechanisms in other areas, including the San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle/Puget Sound and Denver.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe recent approval of the final More MARTA plan will make Atlanta a more transit-oriented city. By creating more affordable living options near transit with direct accessibility to major employment centers, the TOD Fund will provide greater economic opportunity for more residents across the city.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nSome recent transit-oriented developments supported by the City of Atlanta through Invest Atlanta include:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKing Memorial MARTA TOD: \u003c/strong\u003eA 385-unit modular multifamily community at the King Memorial MARTA station with 93 units income-restricted to households earning 80 percent of the area median income (AMI). The project included a $6 million Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) grant through Invest Atlanta to Place Properties to support the $64.5 million development.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEdgewood-Candler Park MARTA TOD: \u003c/strong\u003eA mixed-use development near the Edgewood-Candler Park MARTA Station with retail and 224 apartments, 34 of which are designated as workforce housing. Financing for the project included a $42.9 million lease-purchase bond transaction approved by the Invest Atlanta board.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e161 Peachtree: \u003c/strong\u003eA 14-story, 345-unit residential tower at 161 Peachtree Center Avenue in Downtown Atlanta. Seventy units will be set aside for affordable workforce housing. The project included a $9 million Eastside TAD grant.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Avery at Underground: \u003c/strong\u003eA 4-story, 180-unit multifamily workforce housing development to be developed at Underground with access to MARTA\u0026rsquo;s Five Points station.\u0026nbsp; The project received a $3.6 million Eastside TAD grant.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":225,"title":"Moving in the Spirit Celebrates \"Groundsoaring\" for New Space Next to MARTA","promo_title":"Moving in the Spirit Celebrate \"Groundsoaring\" for New Space Next to MARTA","published_date":"2018-10-12","featured_image":{"id":733,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"moving_spirit_groundbreaking_v2_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":884124,"resource_updated_at":"2018-10-23T10:33:15.180-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-10-23T10:33:15.402-04:00","updated_at":"2018-10-23T10:33:35.402-04:00","filename_hash":"moving_spirit_groundbreaking_v2_insight_jpXy5ZW.png","width":1000,"height":447},"filename":"moving-in-the-spirit-celebrate-groundsoaring-for-new-space-next-to-marta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"hzSMLw","created_at":"2018-10-22T10:20:26.760-04:00","updated_at":"2018-10-23T10:33:35.371-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Moving in the Spirit officially opened its new \u0026ldquo;Space to Soar\u0026rdquo; with a \u0026ldquo;Groundsoaring\u0026rdquo; on Thursday, October 11 that included a procession, a dance performance, inspiring\u0026nbsp;speeches, and reception for families and attendees.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMoving in the Spirit officially opened its new \u0026ldquo;Space to Soar\u0026rdquo; with a \u0026ldquo;Groundsoaring\u0026rdquo; on Thursday, October 11 that included a procession, a dance performance, inspiring speeches, and reception for families and attendees.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor over 30 years, Moving in the Spirit has used the discipline of dance to help Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s young people develop the critical social, emotional and cognitive skills they need to thrive.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA capital campaign raised $8.4 million to build a new home for the organization at the Edgewood/Candler Park MARTA Station. With easy access to transit, young people from across the city will be able to travel to this space easily.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Space to Soar will include a top-notch stage, classrooms, as well as other amenities, and will allow Moving in the Spirit will be able to double their capacity.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) provided an $8.5 million New Markets Tax Credit allocation for this project with our partners at PNC Bank. Other great youth-focused non-profit and educational institutions in the City of Atlanta have been supported through AEMI, including Families First, Sheltering Arms, the Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, and Cristo Rey Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Connecting young people from across the city to access constructive extra curriculum activities is crucial to their development. The new Moving In The Spirit complex will provide a new space for community performances and arts events, will create new full-time jobs and will make a $12.3 million economic contribution to our city,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;As a former ballerina myself, I have a simple message for the hundreds of Atlanta children who will have the chance to learn here: have fun and keep those feet dancing!\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn attendance at the event were dozens of children and their families, as well as Jamie Hardin, Moving in the Spirit Board Chair; Noel Khalil, Columbia Ventures Co-Founder and Partner; Jeffrey Parker, MARTA CEO; Dr. Eloisa Klementich, Invest Atlanta President \u0026amp; CEO; and Councilmembers Natalyn Archibong and Matt Westmoreland.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":219,"title":"Board Takes Action to Support Affordable Housing at 3 Key Atlanta Developments","promo_title":"Board Takes Action on Supporting Affordable Housing at 3 Key Atlanta Developments","published_date":"2018-09-20","featured_image":{"id":721,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"pakrside_qy_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1165049,"resource_updated_at":"2018-09-20T13:51:58.758-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":4,"created_at":"2018-09-20T13:51:58.822-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-19T13:30:11.795-04:00","filename_hash":"pakrside_qy_insight_ZOXw1vW.png","width":1299,"height":585},"filename":"board-takes-action-on-supporting-affordable-housing-at-3-key-atlanta-developments","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"BYz_Kw","created_at":"2018-09-20T13:53:11.655-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-20T14:05:22.383-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved several resolutions that will provide support for the development of new affordable housing in the City of Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors took several actions that will support the development of new affordable housing in the City of Atlanta.\u0026nbsp; At their monthly meeting on Thursday, September 20, the Board approved support for three key developments: City Lights IIA in the Old Fourth Ward, Parkside at Quarry Yards in Bankhead, and 161 Peachtree in Downtown Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCity Lights IIA:\u003c/strong\u003e The Invest Atlanta Board approved up to $52 million in lease purchase bond financing, as well as an inducement resolution to provide $20 million in tax-exempt bond financing, for this new five-story affordable housing development.\u0026nbsp; City Lights IIA will have 124 housing units available to families earning 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or below. Residents will pay no more than 30% of their income on rent. The complex will be located in the Old Fourth Ward community and\u0026nbsp;conveniently located near several MARTA bus stops, restaurants,\u0026nbsp;and\u0026nbsp;the award-winning Historic Fourth Ward Park.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParkside at Quarry Yards:\u003c/strong\u003e This development along the Atlanta BeltLine in the Bankhead neighborhood will include 177 units of multifamily housing, of which 71 units (40%) will be set aside for households earning 60% AMI or below. The Board approved resolutions supporting a total of up to $22 million in tax-exempt bond financing and a $2 million loan through the BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e161 Peachtree: \u003c/strong\u003eThe Board approved up to $120 million in lease purchase bond financing to support the development of a 22-story, 345-unit Downtown residential tower. The tower will be built above an existing parking garage adjacent to Peachtree Center, and 70 units (20%) will be set aside for households earning 80% AMI or below. In addition to creating new affordable housing units, the development will bring a parking deck to its higher and better use and have an estimated total economic impact of $165 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":217,"title":"Gateway Capitol View Affordable Senior Living Complex Opens","promo_title":"Gateway Capitol View Affordable Senior Living Complex Opens","published_date":"2018-09-13","featured_image":{"id":715,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"gateway_capitol_view_insight.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":132235,"resource_updated_at":"2018-09-13T16:12:01.478-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-09-13T16:12:01.516-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-14T10:23:40.573-04:00","filename_hash":"gateway_capitol_view_insight_oMXrBkB.jpg","width":1000,"height":628},"filename":"gateway-capitol-view-affordable-senior-living-complex-opens","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"rqTlIg","created_at":"2018-09-13T16:12:36.796-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-14T10:23:40.531-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The new 162-unit development offers easy access to MARTA transit and the Atlanta BeltLine.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe City of Atlanta, Invest Atlanta, and The Prestwick Companies officially announced on Monday, September 10 the opening of the new Gateway Capitol View senior living development in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Capitol View neighborhood. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe complex is located near the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail and the Oakland City MARTA station. All units are reserved for seniors over the age of 55 whose income is at or below 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). Project Based Rental Assistance from the Atlanta Housing Authority will ensure all residents pay no more than 30 percent of their income in monthly rent.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAt the opening, Chief of Staff Marva Lewis represented Mayor Bottoms and joined Atlanta City Councilmembers Joyce Sheperd and Matt Westmoreland; Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO at Invest Atlanta; Clyde Higgs, Interim CEO at Atlanta BeltLine, Inc.; and Jody Tucker and other company representatives from The Prestwick Companies, the developer on the project.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Prestwick Companies worked in partnership with Invest Atlanta, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and Housing Atlanta to develop this this market-quality complex that features 137 one-bedroom and 25 two-bedroom units.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Today is a joyous occasion for all of who have been involved with this housing development near the Atlanta BeltLine,\u0026rdquo; said Jody Tucker, Chief Executive Officer of The Prestwick Companies. \u0026ldquo;The affordable housing need in Atlanta is greater than ever, and we couldn\u0026rsquo;t be prouder of this premier housing community for seniors. Congratulations to everyone who made Gateway Capitol View a reality for 162 senior families.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2016, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved $14.5 million in tax-exempt bond financing in support of this project. Other sources of financing included federal and state tax credits, a $3 million DCA HOME Loan, as well as private funding sources. Construction began on the development in early 2017.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m excited to celebrate this beautiful development,\u0026rdquo; said Councilmember Joyce Sheperd. \u0026ldquo;It is it is absolutely gorgeous and across the street from MARTA, which is the ideal location for those seniors without vehicles. The southside of Atlanta is becoming a place where seniors really want to be. I\u0026rsquo;m proud as a Councilmember to have this kind of affordability in my district, and I look forward to having more partnerships like this as we continue to build out affordability in Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Gateway Capitol View is a great example of how we\u0026rsquo;re building momentum around our comprehensive approach to preserving and creating high-quality affordable housing in Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich. \u0026ldquo;It takes a lot of hard work behind the scenes to create and preserve affordable housing in Atlanta, but days like today make it all so rewarding. This development alone will create 162 new affordable units and have an estimated economic impact of $35 million.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGateway Capitol View is a four-story \u0026ldquo;U\u0026rdquo;-shaped building with amenities including a community room with a fully equipped kitchen, fitness center, business center with computer stations, furnished library, gazebo, picnic area, and central laundry facility.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe key amenity, however, is the access to transportation it provides to seniors. The need for additional transit options for Atlanta seniors has been identified by the Atlanta Regional Commission. The Gateway Capitol View project is located less than a mile from the Atlanta BeltLine Westside Trail and the future Murphy Crossing development. It is also across the street from the Oakland City MARTA station, making it a prime example of transit-oriented development (TOD) in Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGateway Capitol View is one of many developments the City of Atlanta is supporting as part of its comprehensive approach to creating and retaining affordable housing in the city. In 2018, the city has celebrated grand openings and groundbreaking events for \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/mayor-bottoms-leads-groundbreaking-for-adair-court-senior-affordable-housing-development\"\u003eAdair Court\u003c/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/the-remington-to-offer-quality-safe-affordable-housing-to-northwest-atlanta-seniors\"\u003eThe Remington\u003c/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/legacy-at-vine-city-breaks-ground-will-offer-105-affordable-senior-units\"\u003eLegacy at Vine City\u003c/a\u003e, projects that have created and preserved 356 affordable housing units for senior age residents.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":214,"title":"Invest Atlanta Closes on Three Affordable Housing Developments Totaling 454 Units","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Closes on Three Affordable Housing Developments Totaling 454 Units","published_date":"2018-09-05","featured_image":{"id":710,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"springview_rendering.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1120279,"resource_updated_at":"2018-09-05T14:27:30.253-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-09-05T14:27:30.303-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-06T10:56:37.260-04:00","filename_hash":"springview_rendering_lpkR4kv.png","width":980,"height":621},"filename":"invest-atlanta-closes-on-three-affordable-housing-developments-totaling-454-units","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"C0QxUQ","created_at":"2018-09-05T14:28:51.317-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-06T10:56:37.228-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The month of August was a big one for affordable housing in the City of Atlanta. Within a 15-day span, the Invest Atlanta team closed three key transactions that will support the preservation of 454 affordable multifamily housing units.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe month of August was a big one for affordable housing in the City of Atlanta. Within a 15-day span, the Invest Atlanta team closed three key transactions that will support the preservation of 454 affordable multifamily housing units.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRead on to learn more about these critically important developments:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRolling Bends II\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta is issuing $21 million in tax-exempt bonds to finance the acquisition and rehab of Rolling Bends II, a 190-unit multifamily project located at 2500 Center Street, NW in the Carey Park Neighborhood.\u0026nbsp; This project will provide affordable housing targeting families at or below 60% Area Media Income (AMI).\u0026nbsp; There is an existing Housing Assistance Payment Contract at the development, allowing residents to pay no more than 30% of their income towards housing costs.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe developer is Preservation Partners who specializes in acquiring and preserving affordable housing assets.\u0026nbsp; They provide residents with well-maintained apartment homes in a secure and supportive environment, and partner with affiliated nonprofit organizations to provide ongoing, age and need specific social service programs to enhance the lives of their residents.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpringview Apartments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA total of $1.5 million in Housing Opportunity Bonds financing will support the acquisition and rehab of Springview Apartments, a 144-unit multifamily project located at 2786 Old Hapeville Road, NW in the Glenrose Heights Neighborhood.\u0026nbsp; This complex will provide affordable housing targeting families at or below 60% AMI.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe developer\u0026mdash;TriStar, LLC\u0026mdash;will partner with Star-C Communities to offer free wrap around community services including free after-school, summer camp, wellness and gardening programs. The property will operate under AHA\u0026rsquo;s Homeflex subsidy for 24 of the units, limiting the tenants\u0026rsquo; out of pocket expense to the greater of 30% of their adjusted family income.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCapitol View Apartments\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe preservation of 120 affordable units at Capitol View Apartments is being supported by Invest Atlanta through $1.5 million in Housing Opportunity Bonds financing. This multifamily complex is located at 1191 Metropolitan Parkway, NW in the Adair Park neighborhood and will provide affordable housing targeting families at or below 60% AMI.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe developer is New Columbia Residential, LLC.\u0026nbsp; The 7.91-acre site will have direct access to the Atlanta Beltline Westside Trail along the western edge of the property.\u0026nbsp; There are 20 2-story buildings built in 1951 in the Art Deco style, and the goal is to preserve and renovate these existing buildings.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":215,"title":"IA Board Passes Sweeping New Projects for Affordable Housing, Job Creation and Neighborhood Revitalization","promo_title":"IA Board Passes Sweeping New Projects for Atlanta","published_date":"2018-09-01","featured_image":{"id":711,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"healey_building.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":964130,"resource_updated_at":"2018-09-11T13:39:02.069-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-09-11T13:39:02.201-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-11T13:40:54.576-04:00","filename_hash":"healey_building_eX2VvN6.png","width":1000,"height":598},"filename":"ia-board-passes-sweeping-new-projects-for-affordable-housing-job-creation-and-neighborhood-revitalization","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"WjP-Og","created_at":"2018-09-11T13:40:13.521-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-11T13:40:54.544-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s August 2018 board meeting, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and members of the Invest Atlanta board approved 15 resolutions to provide more affordable housing, as well as create new jobs and bring additional investment to Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s communities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s August 2018 board meeting, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and members of the Invest Atlanta board approved 15 resolutions to provide more affordable housing, as well as create new jobs and bring additional investment to Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s communities.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe actions taken by the board will result in 502 affordable housing units, 522 new full-time jobs, and $277 million worth of economic investment to our City.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The actions of the Invest Atlanta Board demonstrates our strong commitment to achieving the goals of our One Atlanta vision: affordable housing; equitable job growth; and protecting our legacy residents and the neighborhoods they helped to build,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Bottoms.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMajor projects the board approved include:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e272 Affordable Multi-Family Units at The Villages of East Lake:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe Urban Residential Finance Authority (URFA) board approved the preservation and renovation of 272 affordable housing units at the Villages of East Lake. The passage of an inducement resolution will provide $43 million in tax-exempt bond financing and extend affordability at the development for 30 years. 272 of the development\u0026rsquo;s 542 units will be reserved for those earning 60 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) or below.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e196 Affordable Senior Housing Units at Peachtree Road Senior Tower:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe URFA board approved an inducement resolution to support $16 million in tax-exempt bond financing for the acquisition and rehabilitation of Peachtree Senior Tower, an existing public housing tower serving seniors and young disabled individuals. The 196 units will be available to those earning an AMI of 60 percent or less, and RAD project-based vouchers will enable tenants to pay no more than 30 percent of their income on rent.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e34 Affordable Multi-Family Units at 143 Alabama:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eA $2 million Westside TAD grant approved by the Atlanta Development Authority (ADA) board will support the renovation of the historic Atlanta Constitution building at 143 Alabama Steet. The developer, Pope \u0026amp; Land, is renovating this historic building into office space and ground-floor retail. Working with Place Properties, the developer will also build 112 new residential units, 34 of which will be income-restricted to households earning 80 percent of AMI.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChattahoochee Land Swap:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe ADA board approved a fair market exchange of land with Chattahoochee Trails, LLC for the assemblage of the Chattahoochee River Greenway and a proposed mixed-income housing and retail development. The development team has agreed to a minimum of 20 percent workforce housing targeting residents earning between 60 to 120 percent of AMI. Housing will range from apartments for rent to townhomes for sale.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e500 Jobs at New Starbucks Office:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe ADA board approved an Economic Opportunity Fund grant of up to $250,000 to support the creation of a satellite office for Starbucks Corporation in the City of Atlanta. This was a competitive project that Invest Atlanta, the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Metro Atlanta Chamber, and Georgia Power worked on in partnership. The company will create an estimated 500 fulltime jobs, with a total expected investment of around $16 million and an economic impact of $190 million.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeorgia Aquarium Expansion:\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;The ADA board approved a $7.5 million Westside TAD grant that will support The Georgia Aquarium as they seek to develop a 68,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art facility to house a one-of-a-kind predator exhibit, which will display aquatic life not presently available to visitors. The $108 million total capital investment will add a dynamic new architectural element to Downtown Atlanta, while adding 22 fulltime employees and 20 part-time employees. Currently, the Georgia Aquarium generates $5.5 million in sales tax, and the expansion will generate an additional $1.3 million.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUpdating the Fa\u0026ccedil;ade of Historic Healey Building:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe ADA board approved a Westside TAD Downtown Fa\u0026ccedil;ade Improvement grant of up to $199,820 to support the renovation and improvement of the exterior of the historic mixed-use Healey Building in Downtown Atlanta. The Healey, completed in 1913, was the last major skyscraper built in Atlanta preceding World War I. The internal and external improvements will significantly enhance the appearance of the building to prospective tenants, keep rents competitive and attractive by subsidizing exterior improvements, and bring the commercial space to current market standards.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProperty Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) to Support Energy Efficiency and Green Jobs:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eThe Downtown Development Authority (DDA) board approved the issuance of $500 million in bonds to support the PACE financing program to provide property owners with access to private capital to finance improvements that reduce energy and water consumption. The PACE program will ease access to private capital for green building projects, reduce energy bills and increases property values, create local green jobs, and sustain Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s role as a leader in sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s days like today that make me most proud to lead this great organization,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;By supporting 502 affordable housing units and creating 522 jobs and many other investments, we\u0026rsquo;re making an impact the lives of so many businesses and residents throughout the city. The actions taken today under the guidance of Mayor Bottoms are helping to create a more dynamic and equitable Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":213,"title":"Board Takes Key Step to Support Retention of Affordable Housing at Villages of East Lake ","promo_title":"Board Takes Key Step to Support Retention of Affordable Housing at Villages of East Lake ","published_date":"2018-08-29","featured_image":{"id":703,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"east_lake_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":526195,"resource_updated_at":"2018-08-28T15:02:07.995-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-08-28T15:02:08.059-04:00","updated_at":"2018-08-29T15:05:11.261-04:00","filename_hash":"east_lake_insight_E69Zzrn.png","width":892,"height":417},"filename":"board-takes-key-step-to-support-retention-of-affordable-housing-at-villages-of-east-lake","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"H_eyRA","created_at":"2018-08-28T15:02:21.211-04:00","updated_at":"2018-08-29T15:05:11.226-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors voted to support the preservation and renovation of 272 units of affordability at the Villages of East Lake at their monthly board meeting on Wednesday, August 29.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors voted\u0026nbsp;to support the preservation and renovation of 272 units of affordability at the Villages of East Lake at their monthly board meeting on Wednesday, August 29.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe board passed the inducement resolution to approve up to $43 million in tax-exempt bond financing that will help extend affordability at the development for 30 years. Of the\u0026nbsp;542 units at the property, 272 will be reserved for those earning 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or below, with the rest of the units available at market rate. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I think that\u0026rsquo;s just fantastic,\u0026rdquo; IA board member and Treasurer Randy Hazelton said in support of the resolution. \u0026ldquo;The importance of income diversity for social mobility is huge. And to have this diversity in a neighborhood like that with an anchor school that\u0026rsquo;s really well regarded, I think that\u0026rsquo;s great.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt in two phases in 1996 and 1998, The Villages of East Lake is a mixed-income community with\u0026nbsp;townhouses, duplexes, and garden apartments. The development was built to replace East Lake Meadows\u0026nbsp;with a community that promotes a \u0026ldquo;\u003ca href=\"http://eastlakeatl.com/east-lake/\"\u003eholistic vision\u003c/a\u003e that unites housing, education, and community wellness in a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood setting.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAlong with the apartments, residents have access to Charles R. Drew Charter School, a highly regarded educational institution serving more than 1,200 students from pre-K through high school. Other community assets include the East Lake Family YMCA, the East Lake Early Learning Academy, and the Sheltering Arms Early Education and Life Center.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe original 15-year affordability compliance period expired in 2015, but once available, this financing will help extend affordability for decades to come, as well as support additional improvements to the property such as new and updated flooring, fixtures, HVAC systems, and common areas.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s really a transformational development,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Senior Vice President of Community Development. \u0026ldquo;Living in this community, especially having access to this quality educational outlet, is very much in high demand.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re happy to be part of this preservation effort.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":208,"title":"City of Atlanta Selected for City Accelerator Program","promo_title":"City of Atlanta Selected for City Accelerator Program","published_date":"2018-08-01","featured_image":{"id":684,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"pittsburgh_yards_video_rendering_4.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":806651,"resource_updated_at":"2018-08-01T15:22:49.244-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-08-01T15:22:49.287-04:00","updated_at":"2018-08-01T15:24:56.868-04:00","filename_hash":"pittsburgh_yards_video_rendering_4_mp4DNP4.png","width":1000,"height":475},"filename":"city-of-atlanta-selected-for-city-accelerator-program","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ONcszg","created_at":"2018-08-01T09:37:54.679-04:00","updated_at":"2018-08-01T15:24:25.629-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced the City of Atlanta will join the City Accelerator program, an initiative of the Citi Foundation and Living Cities, to foster innovation and promote collaboration between urban leaders to address pressing issues cities face today.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced the City of Atlanta will join the City Accelerator program, an initiative of the Citi Foundation and Living Cities, to foster innovation and promote collaboration between urban leaders to address pressing issues cities face today. Atlanta will join four other cities in this latest City Accelerator cohort \u0026ndash; El Paso, Long Beach, Newark and Rochester \u0026ndash; who will work together over the next year to pursue a range of projects that support the growth of local minority-owned businesses and the creation of additional jobs in each community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;Creating innovative ways to build opportunity and equity through job growth, business incubation and workforce training is a priority for our Administration and our city,\u0026quot; said Mayor Bottoms. \u0026quot;Our vision for One Atlanta includes a city where neighborhoods, communities and businesses thrive. We look forward to working with the Citi Foundation and Living Cities through the City Accelerator to realize that goal.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe City Accelerator program includes a $100,000 grant to each cohort city to support local business and job growth. The City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s initiative will fund a program providing access to affordable real estate and technical assistance to economically underserved businesses in Southwest Atlanta. The initiative will be launched at Pittsburgh Yards\u0026trade;, a 30-acre, mixed-use site under development in Southwest Atlanta. Invest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic development authority, will lead the project in partnership with One Atlanta: The Mayor\u0026rsquo;s Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, the Mayor\u0026rsquo;s Office of Innovation and Performance and local community Partner, The Annie E. Casey Foundation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The Annie E. Casey Foundation\u0026rsquo;s focus in redeveloping Pittsburgh Yards has always been on providing more equitable opportunities for residents in Southwest Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Kweku Forstall, Director of the Foundation\u0026rsquo;s Atlanta Civic Site. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re excited that this funding has been secured and hopeful that it will seed meaningful activity for entrepreneurs in Pittsburgh and surrounding communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Annie E. Casey Foundation serves as the primary developer of Pittsburgh Yards as well as an impact investor in social service, workforce development, and financial programs for the Pittsburgh community. Through this strategic partnership, they will provide additional visionary support to redevelop Pittsburgh Yards into a commercial, industrial, and retail site on the Atlanta Beltline. Additionally, several commercial spaces at Pittsburgh Yards will be reserved for purchase by small business owners who are selected to participate in the program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;To achieve and sustain equitable growth, we need to ensure that businesses across the city have access to the resources and assistance they need to compete in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s growing economy,\u0026rdquo; continued Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;The real estate development program at Pittsburgh Yards will be a catalytic project to spur economic activity in Southwest Atlanta communities by creating new opportunities for area business owners and emerging enterprises.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe program will help address four major challenges experienced by minority-owned businesses: limited access to capital based on traditional underwriting criteria, debt service payment capabilities, difficulty purchasing commercial space, and preparing for business growth. In addition to providing access to affordable commercial space at Pittsburgh Yards, the project team will offer technical assistance to help sole proprietorships increase business value by expanding hiring opportunities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAll five cities selected for this Accelerator program are considered majority-minority communities based on socio-economic makeup, where more than 50 percent of a city\u0026rsquo;s population represents social, ethnic and/or racial minorities. This classification is primary for urban centers to address the barriers minority-owned businesses face, including access to capital, connections to industries, and navigating regulations.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;Cities can have a disproportionately positive impact on local entrepreneurial ecosystems and the creation of good jobs\u0026rdquo;, said Living Cities President and CEO Ben Hecht. \u0026ldquo;The cities in this latest initiative will be showing how they can harness all of their assets to support and grow businesses owned by the nation\u0026rsquo;s fastest-growing populations\u0026mdash;people of color\u0026mdash;and help to close racial gaps in wealth and income in their own backyards.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition to a $100,000 grant, each city will receive a combination of coaching, technical assistance and implementation resources in the coming year. Technical assistance for the effort will be provided by Rodrick Miller, President and CEO of Ascendant Global, an economic development consulting firm. Miller has previously served as the President and CEO of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and the New Orleans Business Alliance.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s project, visit the City Accelerator website \u003ca href=\"http://www.governing.com/cityaccelerator/videos/Atlanta-Making-Commercial-Real-Estate-Affordable-for-Minority-Owned-Businesses.html\"\u003ehere\u003c/a\u003e, and follow #CityAccelerator on Twitter.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":203,"title":"Hagar Acquires Two Westside Properties for Rehab Into 17 Affordable Housing Units","promo_title":"Hagar Acquires Two Westside Properties for Rehab Into 17 Affordable Housing Units","published_date":"2018-07-06","featured_image":{"id":669,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"415-jpb-insight_v2.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1036030,"resource_updated_at":"2018-07-06T10:46:55.608-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-07-06T10:46:55.668-04:00","updated_at":"2021-03-24T15:21:29.606-04:00","filename_hash":"415-jpb-insight_v2_zmn7K9z.png","width":900,"height":687},"filename":"hagar-acquires-two-westside-properties-for-rehab-into-17-affordable-housing-units","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"6RAgjg","created_at":"2018-07-06T10:45:28.727-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-06T10:47:12.634-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At their June monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta board approved the sale of two vacant multifamily properties to Hagar CTM, who will renovate them into 17 units of quality, affordable rental housing for the Westside community.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt their June monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta board approved the sale of two vacant multifamily properties to Hagar CTM, who will renovate them into 17 units of quality, affordable rental housing for the Westside community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe two properties\u0026mdash;located at 712 Fox Street and 415 James P. Brawley Drive\u0026mdash;were acquired by Invest Atlanta as part of the Westside land acquisition initiative.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn response to a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued by Invest Atlanta, Hagar CTM proposed to purchase the improvements on both parcels and negotiate a long-term ground lease with Invest Atlanta to redevelop the two properties. The organization has an equity partner in KP Realty One, who will provide funding assistance for the acquisition and rehabilitation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This one rose to the surface as one that we were very excited about and felt like we could take action on it now,\u0026rdquo; said Jennifer Fine, the VP of Planning and Strategic Initiatives at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re really encouraged by the proposed design and architectural detail they want to do on these properties. They\u0026rsquo;re really kind of changing the landscape of what these looked like. For all intents and purposes, they\u0026rsquo;re going to look completely different. Which I think is hugely important to help set a tone. And change the narrative that we\u0026rsquo;re not just talking about painting windows. This is real change.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe redevelopment of existing multi-family properties in English Avenue and Vine City is a primary focus of this effort as it provides a significant opportunity to positively impact the availability of quality, affordable rental housing in the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHagar Civilization Training Missionary (CTM) is a 501(C)3 nonprofit volunteer organization that provides unsubsidized affordable rental housing to low-income senior, disabled, and veteran residents. Hagar CTM\u0026rsquo;s work has significantly improved the quality and mix of housing stock in their target neighborhoods, while also creating new employment opportunities. Hagar also partners with organizations like the Atlanta Community Food Bank to provide wrap-around services to residents.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has worked with Hagar CTM several times already. Most recently, the Invest Atlanta Board approved an $812,000 grant from the Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Community Improvement Fund and an $812,000 loan from the Vine City Housing Trust Fund to support the conversion of 7 vacant properties into 20 affordable housing units.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":201,"title":"Civic-Based Workspace Constellations a Great Asset for Sweet Auburn","promo_title":"Civic-Based Workspace Constellations a Great Asset for Sweet Auburn","published_date":"2018-06-19","featured_image":{"id":663,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"constellations_v1.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1139940,"resource_updated_at":"2018-06-19T13:45:08.633-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-06-19T13:45:08.696-04:00","updated_at":"2018-06-26T09:39:53.995-04:00","filename_hash":"constellations_v1_DNvkbjQ.png","width":1200,"height":686},"filename":"civic-based-workspace-constellations-a-great-asset-for-sweet-auburn","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"WVfxvA","created_at":"2018-06-19T13:45:19.336-04:00","updated_at":"2018-06-25T13:40:02.136-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"https://www.constellations.community/\"\u003eConstellations\u003c/a\u003e, a collaborative working space focused on community building in Sweet Auburn, is thriving thanks in part to funding the project received through\u0026nbsp;the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD).\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.constellations.community/\"\u003eConstellations\u003c/a\u003e, a collaborative working space focused on community building in Sweet Auburn, is thriving\u0026nbsp;thanks in part to funding the project received through\u0026nbsp;the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD).\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLocated on Auburn Avenue in the Sweet Auburn Historic District near Downtown, the building was originally designed by the famous Atlanta architect Neel Reid as a school book repository.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGene Kansas renovated this historically significant building into a culturally-inspiring workspace that helps to celebrate the Sweet Auburn neighborhood\u0026rsquo;s long-time role as a center for African-American-owned businesses.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;As our name suggests, Constellations is a place where stars come together and shine,\u0026rdquo; said Kansas.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSome of these \u0026ldquo;stars\u0026rdquo; include \u003ca href=\"https://mygivingpoint.org/\"\u003eGiving Point\u003c/a\u003e, a social enterprise focused on education through service, local artist \u003ca href=\"http://www.fahamupecouart.com/\"\u003eFahamu Pecou\u003c/a\u003e, Georgia Tech, Georgia State, and \u003ca href=\"https://savingplaces.org/places/atlanta-field-office#.Wyk_8adKiUk\"\u003eThe National Trust for Historic Preservation\u003c/a\u003e. All tenants agree to a minimum one a one-year lease to allow them to\u0026nbsp;establish deeper roots in the community.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta supported the project with a $200,000 Eastside TAD Resurgens Grant.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s contribution through the Resurgens Grant allowed us to provide 25% of our space for free to community-oriented non-profits and individuals,\u0026rdquo; said Kansas.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe workspace is approximately 9,500 square feet and features offices, studies, the North Star Library, dedicated desks, a board-quality conference room, the Milky Way Coffee Bar, communal areas, team rooms, and a podcast studio.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":200,"title":"The Remington to Offer Quality, Safe \u0026 Affordable Housing to Northwest Atlanta Seniors","promo_title":"The Remington to Offer Quality, Safe \u0026 Affordable Housing to Northwest Atlanta Seniors","published_date":"2018-06-15","featured_image":{"id":662,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"remington_insight_small.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1486539,"resource_updated_at":"2018-06-18T14:26:09.223-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-06-18T14:26:09.279-04:00","updated_at":"2018-06-26T09:40:21.173-04:00","filename_hash":"remington_insight_small_mpEPbwP.png","width":1000,"height":667},"filename":"the-remington-to-offer-quality-safe-affordable-housing-to-northwest-atlanta-seniors","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"9dIXYg","created_at":"2018-06-18T14:23:23.391-04:00","updated_at":"2018-06-25T13:43:46.934-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Remington officially opened its doors to senior residents at a celebration held at the development on Thursday, June 14.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Remington officially opened its doors to senior residents at a celebration held at the property on Thursday, June 14.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe high-quality, safe, and affordable senior housing development has already begun welcoming tenants\u0026nbsp;and will soon be at capacity. The Remington offers 160 units total, with 18 units set aside for those making 50% Area Median Income (AMI) and 142 units for those earning 60% AMI or less. No resident will pay more than 30% of their income on rent.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe residents all have energy-efficient appliances, including a washer\u0026nbsp;and dryer\u0026nbsp;in each unit, as well as access to a shared computer lab, community room, and fitness center.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;So much goes into creating a vision of something you can only see on paper,\u0026rdquo; Torian Priestly, Executive Vice President at The Benoit Group, said during the ceremony. \u0026ldquo;Projects like this take an enormous amount of effort, focus, and determination. Through that persistence, we were able to build The Remington to help with the neighborhood dream and to provide quality housing for our seniors.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOther speakers at the ceremony included: Eddy Benoit, Jr., President \u0026amp; CEO of The Benoit Group; Ola Reynolds, Chairperson of NPU-G; Alan Ferguson, Senior VP of Community Development at Invest Atlanta; Ricardo Anderson of the Atlanta Housing Authority; and Carolyn Whatley from Capital One.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta supported this project through $11 million in tax-exempt bond financing, as well as project-generated property tax increment financing through the Hollowell-MLK TAD.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m so thankful The Benoit Group took the time to see what was here and have the vision of what could be, and what ended up being, a great residential property serving the surrounding seniors in this area,\u0026rdquo; said Ferguson. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s an absolute joy and privilege to be part of developments like this. This completely fits the vision for what Invest Atlanta sees as quality affordable housing in the City of Atlanta. We appreciate the example that you\u0026rsquo;re setting, and we appreciate the bar that you\u0026rsquo;re setting for other developers.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCouncilmember Dustin Hillis was also in attendance. Council President Felicia Moore, who previously represented District 9, worked\u0026nbsp;this project since 2014.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Thank you all for what you have done,\u0026rdquo; said Ola Reynolds, Chairperson of NPU-G. \u0026ldquo;Isn\u0026rsquo;t it beautiful you all? That\u0026rsquo;s what we want.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;A project like this can be catalytic for other development in this area,\u0026rdquo; said Eddy Benoit, Jr., President \u0026amp; CEO of The Benoit Group. \u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has been a great partner for us throughout this process.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Northwest\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":198,"title":"Invest Atlanta Supports 270 Affordable Housing Units at Bethel Towers and Grove Park Gardens","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Supports Affordable Housing at Bethel and Grove Park Gardens","published_date":"2018-06-04","featured_image":{"id":653,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"big_bethel_v2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":181947,"resource_updated_at":"2018-06-06T13:45:14.160-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-06-06T13:45:14.198-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-13T15:45:46.607-04:00","filename_hash":"big_bethel_v2_gva738Q.jpg","width":800,"height":533},"filename":"invest-atlanta-supports-270-affordable-housing-units-at-big-bethel-and-grove-park-gardens","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"6JUewQ","created_at":"2018-06-06T13:47:29.852-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-13T15:45:46.575-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta is lending a valuable hand to two critically important affordable housing developments: Bethel Towers and Grove Park Gardens.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eUPDATE:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta closed on the $16.5 million tax-exempt bond issuance to finance the Bethel Towers project on July 13, 2018.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta is lending a valuable hand in two critically important affordable housing developments: Bethel Towers and Grove Park Gardens.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nLocated in the heart of Downtown Atlanta on Auburn Avenue, Bethel Towers has not been substantially renovated since its construction in 1969.\u0026nbsp; With the support of $16.5 million in tax-exempt bond financing from Invest Atlanta, The Benoit Group LLC is partnering with Big Bethel AME Church to preserve and upgrade 180 units set aside for those earning 60% AMI. All units will be covered by an existing Housing Assistance Payment agreement, ensuring residents pay no more than 30% of their income on rent.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;You\u0026rsquo;ve heard us describe these transactions as less like a sprint and more like a marathon,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, Senior VP of Community Development at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;[The Benoit Group] pays attention to all the complex details and nuances of working with HUD and DCA to make them happen.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nGrove Park Gardens will contain 110 units of newly constructed multifamily housing, 90 of which will be set aside as affordable at different income levels.\u0026nbsp; Invest Atlanta is supporting the project with $500,000 in Housing Opportunity Bond financing.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nBig Bethel Towers and Grove Park Gardens have many amenities, including clubhouses, fitness centers, and in-unit washers and dryers. The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors passed the resolutions approving support for these projects at their monthly meeting in May 2018.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":194,"title":"Board Approves $2.4 Million for Westside TAD Resident Retention Effort","promo_title":"Board Approves $2.4 Million for Westside TAD Resident Retention Effort","published_date":"2018-05-18","featured_image":{"id":639,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"westside_oor.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":151309,"resource_updated_at":"2018-05-15T12:59:00.112-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-05-15T12:59:00.152-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-17T16:01:04.701-04:00","filename_hash":"westside_oor_Pgx1zMp.jpg","width":900,"height":582},"filename":"board-approves-24-million-for-westside-tad-resident-retention-effort","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"P4FWqw","created_at":"2018-05-17T10:04:15.595-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-22T11:08:56.954-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At their monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved a $2.4 million grant from the Westside TAD Community Improvement Fund to expand the Westside Heritage Owner-Occupied Rehab (OOR) program.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt their monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved a $2.4 million grant from the Westside TAD Community Improvement Fund to expand the Westside Heritage Owner-Occupied Rehab (OOR) program. This initiative offers residents forgivable loans to make critical health and safety repairs on their homes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe new funding comes as the pilot program in the Westside wraps up this summer after helping eight Westside homeowners fix things on their homes like a leaky roof, plumbing, electrical work, foundation repairs and other necessities. In March, Invest Atlanta opened Westside Heritage OOR program to mare residents and launched programs for residents in Choice Neighborhoods and citywide.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We feel like we\u0026rsquo;re in a good position to scale up,\u0026rdquo; said Jennifer Fine, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Vice President of Planning and Strategic Initiatives, when the item was initially approved by the TAD Committee a week earlier.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFulton County Commissioner Emma Darnell, a member of the TAD Committee, added at the time: \u0026ldquo;I think it\u0026rsquo;s one of the best projects I\u0026rsquo;ve seen Invest Atlanta do.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe $2.4 million in additional funding will allow more residents to receive a forgivable loan of up to $60,000 for home repair work in the Westside neighborhoods of Vine City, English Avenue, and portions of Castleberry Hill. Because there are relatively few existing low-to-moderate income homeowners within the Westside TAD neighborhoods, the program will impact almost 20% of homeowners in the area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has received around 500 applications for the citywide, Choice Neighborhoods, and Westside Heritage Owner-Occupied Rehab programs, which are all part of the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s larger community retention effort.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLinda Graham is one of five homeowners who received repairs as part of the pilot program. She has lived in Vine City for more than 25 years, and had considered moving before joining the Owner-Occupied Rehab program.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I have such a deep gratitude for Invest Atlanta and am so tickled with all the work that was done,\u0026rdquo; she said. \u0026ldquo;To extend that arm of assistance is very impressive. It shows they really care about homeowners and our community.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Homebuying/ Homeownership\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":196,"title":"Hagar CTM Set to Transform Vacant Westside Properties Into Affordable Housing","promo_title":"Hagar CTM Set to Transform Vacant Westside Properties Into Affordable Housing","published_date":"2018-05-17","featured_image":{"id":650,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"westside_home.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1790880,"resource_updated_at":"2018-05-22T11:12:10.184-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-05-22T11:12:10.397-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-17T16:01:45.345-04:00","filename_hash":"westside_home_V12PXlL.jpg","width":5160,"height":3108},"filename":"hagar-ctm-set-to-transform-vacant-westside-properties-into-affordable-housing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"8EPgXQ","created_at":"2018-05-21T14:16:04.573-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-29T09:34:34.839-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n With Invest Atlanta support, Hagar Civilization Training Missionary (CTM) will convert 7 vacant Vine City and English Avenue properties into 20 affordable housing units.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWith Invest Atlanta support, Hagar Civilization Training Missionary (CTM) will convert 7 vacant Vine City and English Avenue properties into 20 affordable housing units. At their monthly board meeting in May, the IA Board of Directors approved an $812,000 grant from the Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Community Improvement Fund and an $812,000 loan from the Vine City Housing Trust Fund to support the project.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The work that you all [at Hagar CTM] are doing is really admirable, serving that community,\u0026rdquo; said IA Board Treasurer Randy Hazelton. \u0026ldquo;Unfortunately, organizations like yours don\u0026rsquo;t get the publicity they deserve, but we recognize and appreciate it.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe plans for this project involve taking vacant single-family properties in various stages of disrepair and converting them into multifamily units and a single-family home. Kelly Brown, a recent graduate of Invest Atlanta\u0026#39;s \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/board-approves-pre-development-fund-for-westside-tad-community-builders\"\u003eCommunity Builders\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;program, is assisting with the project. Rents will be affordable for residents earning below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The Westside TAD Advisory Committee recommended approval of this project, and the Vine City Civic Association and English Avenue Neighborhood Association gave their positive recommendations.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHagar CTM is a 501(C)3 nonprofit volunteer organization that provides unsubsidized affordable rental housing to low-income senior, disabled, and veteran residents. Hagar CTM\u0026rsquo;s work has significantly improved the quality and mix of housing stock in their target neighborhoods, while also creating new employment opportunities. Hagar also partners with organizations like the Atlanta Community Food Bank to provide wrap-around services to residents.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Their primary business model is to serve the underserved populations, whether it\u0026#39;s low-income seniors, the disabled, or veterans,\u0026rdquo; said Jennifer Fine, VP of Planning \u0026amp; Strategic Initiatives at Invest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHagar recently completed\u0026mdash;with matching funds from Invest Atlanta\u0026mdash;a 10-unit senior citizen, veteran and accessible multi-family property that significantly improved the quality and mix of housing stock in the English Avenue community. (\u003ca href=\"investatlanta.com/impact-insights/hagar-celebrates-renovation-of-nine-affordable-units\"\u003eRead more here\u003c/a\u003e.)\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":195,"title":"Dawn Luke Named VP of National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies","promo_title":"Dawn Luke Named VP of National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies","published_date":"2018-05-16","featured_image":{"id":648,"parent_id":1,"resource_file_name":"dl-site.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2139307,"resource_updated_at":"2018-05-22T09:37:47.725-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-05-22T09:37:48.011-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-17T16:03:54.272-04:00","filename_hash":"dl-site_LgnoL8r.png","width":5247,"height":2044},"filename":"dawn-luke-named-vp-of-national-housing-finance-org","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"MisODA","created_at":"2018-05-21T10:26:39.567-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-22T09:37:54.897-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta Chief Operating Officer Dawn Luke has been named Vice President of the 2018-2019 National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies (NALHFA) Executive Committee.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta Chief Operating Officer Dawn Luke has been named Vice President of the 2018-2019 National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies (NALHFA) Executive Committee. NALHFA\u0026nbsp;officially named Luke to the position at their annual conference in New Orleans.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;Throughout the past year NALHFA has proven its effectiveness in representing the interests of the local housing finance industry and its members,\u0026quot; said newly-elected NALHFA President Richard Froehlich. \u0026quot;Following recent tax legislation and continued uncertainty over HUD funding it is essential that our voice is heard in Washington DC. NALHFA will continue to be a leader in the fight to preserve and enhance federal affordable housing resources.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNALHFA is a 34-year-old national association of professionals who help finance affordable housing at the local level in support of broader community development. The organization advocates before Congress and federal agencies on behalf of legislation and regulations that support affordable housing and provides technical assistance and education to NALHFA members and the public.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDawn Luke is Chief Operating Officer at Invest Atlanta and oversees Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s finance, information technology, human resources and investment services departments, and continue to support the organization\u0026rsquo;s community development programs. Prior to her current position, Dawn served as Senior Vice President of Community Development responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction in the successful execution of a shared vision of comprehensive community development, quality affordable housing, and economic growth in the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s ten Tax Allocation Districts.\u0026nbsp; Ms. Luke has also served as the Managing Director of Housing Finance for five years and was responsible for overseeing the successful implementation of $250M in pivotal affordable housing programs which served to provide viable housing solutions for Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s workforce, seniors, disabled and individuals confronted with homelessness. During her tenure with Invest Atlanta, Ms. Luke also managed and operated the Issuer\u0026rsquo;s multifamily and single-family Housing Bond Portfolio of approximately $1.6 billion and more than 20,000 units of housing.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMs. Luke earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Spelman College and a MBA in International Business from Georgia State University.\u0026nbsp; She currently serves as President Emeritus of the Board of Directors of Georgia Sustainable Committee Alliance, Chairwoman of the Southwest Atlanta Partnership Board of Directors, and the Atlanta Land Trust.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":191,"title":"Partners In The Spotlight: Mtamanika Youngblood \u0026 Hamilton Howell House","promo_title":"Partners In The Spotlight: Mtamanika Youngblood \u0026 Hamilton Howell House","published_date":"2018-05-16","featured_image":{"id":633,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"hamilton_howell_house_v2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1983294,"resource_updated_at":"2018-05-15T09:53:52.054-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-05-15T09:53:52.299-04:00","updated_at":"2018-07-17T16:03:16.922-04:00","filename_hash":"hamilton_howell_house_v2_38zkg9e.jpg","width":3944,"height":3016},"filename":"partners-in-the-spotlight-mtamanika-youngblood-hamilton-howell-house","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"lpLxUA","created_at":"2018-05-10T16:05:25.986-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-15T09:54:01.783-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n An Invest Atlanta Community Empowerment Fund Grant helped Mtamanika Youngblood preserve a historic Sweet Auburn property.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn 1984, Mtamanika Youngblood and her husband George Howell were looking to move from the suburbs to the city and happened upon a house on Howell Street \u0026ndash; not far from Martin Luther King Jr.\u0026rsquo;s birthplace and childhood home. Despite its disrepair and downtrodden neighborhood, they decided to make it their own.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMtamanika and George soon learned that 102 Howell Street was built in 1890 by Alexander Hamilton Jr., Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s leading African American contractor, as his family home. Hamilton, in fact, was one of the business leaders who laid the groundwork for Sweet Auburn\u0026rsquo;s evolution into the center of African American cultural and commercial excellence. Mtamanika managed the substantial renovation of the home and ensured its recognition as a historic property in keeping with the State of Georgia\u0026rsquo;s Historic Preservation Division and utilizing the Secretary of the Interior standards for revitalization.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We didn\u0026rsquo;t touch the outside of the house for seven years because it would\u0026rsquo;ve stuck out like a sore thumb,\u0026rdquo; Mtamanika says. \u0026ldquo;But when we opened the front door, people were amazed by the inside.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMtamanika and George had aspirations to revitalize the entire neighborhood - and did so one home at a time. They both joined the Board of the Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC) - which facilitates the preservation, revitalization, and non-displacement of residents in the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic District - and learned that persistence pays.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEven after George\u0026rsquo;s passing, Mtamanika has continued their work. To date, she and the HDDC have renovated or built 120 architecturally compatible homes, as well as commercial, retail, and multi-family buildings. Mtamanika is once again renovating 102 Howell Street - this time to convert it into a bed and breakfast. When finished, it will be the only privately owned renovated historic house in the MLK District and its only bed and breakfast. An Invest Atlanta Community Empowerment Fund Grant helped Mtamanika make the property handicap accessible, and she hopes it will serve as a community amenity for gatherings, meetings, and receptions. There\u0026rsquo;s something special about the neighborhood that shaped Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I want people to understand the importance of that legacy and tell the amazing stories of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s prominent African Americans, like Alexander Hamilton Jr., in the context of Sweet Auburn.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead more of our \u0026ldquo;Partners In The Spotlight\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;in our \u003ca href=\"/about-us/statements-records\"\u003e2017 Annual Report\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":189,"title":"Legacy at Vine City Breaks Ground, Will Offer 105 Affordable Senior Units","promo_title":"Legacy at Vine City Breaks Ground, Will Offer 105 Affordable Senior Units","published_date":"2018-05-05","featured_image":{"id":626,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"legacy_vine_city.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":2275240,"resource_updated_at":"2018-05-02T10:29:38.012-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-05-02T10:29:38.274-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-15T12:52:24.577-04:00","filename_hash":"legacy_vine_city_Bx3YVqV.jpg","width":5407,"height":3605},"filename":"legacy-at-vine-city-breaks-ground-will-offer-105-affordable-senior-units","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"dunVag","created_at":"2018-05-02T10:30:37.907-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-15T12:52:24.559-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta joined with our partners to celebrate the April 27 groundbreaking of The Legacy at Vine City, a $20 million,\u0026nbsp;105-unit\u0026nbsp;affordable housing development for seniors above the age of 62.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta joined with our partners to celebrate the April 27 groundbreaking of The Legacy at Vine City, a $20 million, 105-unit affordable housing development for seniors above the age of 62. All residents will pay no more than 30% of their income on rent thanks to assistance from the Atlanta Housing Authority.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;With this new project, people like my mother and my family, can now still have a place,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;As the 60th Mayor of this city and the product of the Vine City and English Avenue community, I say congratulations and the best is yet to come.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This project will allow us to have resident retention and it will address the affordable housing needs and concerns that we have in this community,\u0026rdquo; said Bishop Dexter Johnson of the Higher Ground Empowerment Center Church.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the ceremony, the audience also heard from city officials and community leaders, including: Councilman Ivory Young, City of Atlanta, District 3; Alan Ferguson of Invest Atlanta; Ms. Catherine Buell, President, Atlanta Housing Authority; Ms. Laurel Hart, Division Director, Georgia Department of Community Affairs; and property developer Mr. Philip Searles, President of the Beverly J. Searles Foundation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe state-of-the-art Legacy at Vine City community will offer 1- and 2-bedroom affordable apartments for senior living. The Higher Ground Empowerment Center Church (HGECC) is spearheading the development through its community development corporate The Oasis of Vine City, Inc. The Beverly J. Searles Foundation serve as co-developers and will help bring to life the 25-year-old vision of Bishop Johnson.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta supported The Legacy at Vine City through $10 million in tax-exempt bond financing, as well as a $1 million Vine City Trust Fund loan.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOther key financial supporters included the Atlanta Housing Authority, Cabretta Capital, Community Development Trust, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and PNC Real Estate.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":187,"title":"Adair Court to Bring 77 Affordable Senior Units to Atlanta BeltLine","promo_title":"Adair Court to Bring 77 Affordable Senior Units to Atlanta BeltLine","published_date":"2018-05-04","featured_image":{"id":624,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"adair_court_v2.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1274609,"resource_updated_at":"2018-04-30T15:57:22.287-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-04-30T15:57:22.407-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-15T12:52:13.330-04:00","filename_hash":"adair_court_v2_eXW9mbW.png","width":1453,"height":649},"filename":"adair-court-to-bring-77-affordable-senior-units-to-atlanta-beltline","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"fCwBjQ","created_at":"2018-04-30T16:00:14.544-04:00","updated_at":"2018-05-15T12:52:13.312-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta and the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) recently announced the development of a new 91-unit, senior housing facility located on the Westside Trail.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta and the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI) recently announced the development of a new 91-unit, senior housing facility located on the Westside Trail. Through a $500,000 BeltLine Affordable Housing Trust Fund loan from Invest Atlanta to The Woda Group, Inc. and Parallel Housing, Inc., this investment will help fund affordable housing projects in the Adair Park Historic District.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLocated along the Atlanta BeltLine corridor, 77 of the units\u0026nbsp;will be affordable, while the remainder will be rented at market rate.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Affordable housing is an essential component of the Atlanta BeltLine and communities like Adair Court help maintain the diverse and inclusive fabric of Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;Building an equitable Atlanta Beltline depends on developments like this to help increase access to quality, affordable housing. This announcement is another significant step forward in ensuring the residents of the Adair Park Historic District can share in our city\u0026rsquo;s success.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAdair Court is located at 806 Murphy Avenue. The $15 million development includes a picnic area, community garden, computer lab, workout facilities, on-site laundry and is only a few blocks from the West End MARTA station and ABI\u0026rsquo;s Westside Trail and Urban Farm. Just down the road, Carter Development recently announced its acquisition of the 40-acre Metropolitan property with plans for an $80 million adaptive reuse project to create office space and residential units. Projects such as this one and ABI\u0026rsquo;s Murphy Crossing development position the area along the Westside Trail as an imminent redevelopment node with the potential to generate jobs, housing, and economic activity along the transportation corridor.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Adair Park\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":186,"title":"Board Approves Pre-Development Fund for Westside TAD Community Builders","promo_title":"Board Approves Pre-Development Fund for Westside TAD Community Builders","published_date":"2018-04-19","featured_image":{"id":619,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"community_builders_event_2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1545156,"resource_updated_at":"2018-04-19T10:50:56.861-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-04-19T10:50:57.147-04:00","updated_at":"2018-04-19T10:52:02.125-04:00","filename_hash":"community_builders_event_2_xDNw3XR.jpg","width":5308,"height":3539},"filename":"board-approves-pre-development-fund-for-westside-tad-community-builders","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"z564Ug","created_at":"2018-04-19T10:52:02.099-04:00","updated_at":"2018-04-19T10:52:02.099-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n At the April 2018 monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved the creation of a $150,000 Westside TAD Community Builders Pre-Development Fund.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt the April 2018 monthly meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved the creation of a $150,000 Westside TAD Community Builders Pre-Development Fund.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta launched the Community Builders program October 2017 to train Westside resident property owners and other community stakeholders in core property redevelopment skills. The six-month training concluded with final project presentations in March 2018.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Everyone I spoke to said the program was really valuable and taught them so much,\u0026rdquo; Dr. Klementich said of the Community Builders participants. \u0026ldquo;They feel encouraged about moving their projects forward.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs a next step to assisting participants, Invest Atlanta will now take on a more well-rounded support process by providing graduates with grants for eligible pre-development expenses.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe fund will award grants of up to $15,000 for eligible pre-development expenses, such as site inspection, environmental assessments, and permitting. Awardees will have to provide 20% of the pre-development costs and have a clear plan for post-development operations of the project. They also must successfully complete the new Community Builders training program and have ownership or site control of the project property.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Not only are we really excited about bringing in new development, but especially because we are supporting it organically within the Westside neighborhoods,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;The Community Builders program and this new fund will support residents who want to develop properties within their communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBoth the Community Builders pilot training program and Pre-Development Fund are funded through the Westside TAD and meet Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s larger goals in the Westside neighborhoods of Vine City, English Avenue, and portions of Castleberry Hill. By helping participants develop core property redevelopment skills, while also providing up-front capital for their projects, this effort builds community capacity for revitalization efforts, helps retain existing residents, and improves the overall quality of life in the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":182,"title":"AEMI Supports New Arts-Focused Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta Facility","promo_title":"AEMI Supports New Arts-Focused Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta Facility","published_date":"2018-03-28","featured_image":{"id":595,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"bgcma_closing_6.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2105269,"resource_updated_at":"2018-03-29T08:52:02.111-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-03-29T08:52:02.166-04:00","updated_at":"2018-03-29T09:36:34.945-04:00","filename_hash":"bgcma_closing_6_KDZqM7e.png","width":1167,"height":774},"filename":"deal-closed-boys-and-girls-club-of-metro-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"NYOV4w","created_at":"2018-03-28T12:54:12.362-04:00","updated_at":"2018-03-29T09:36:34.933-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n On March, 28 2018, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) closed on a $10 million New Markets Tax Credits transaction to support the construction of the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s new 25,000-square-foot facility in southwest Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn March, 28 2018, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) closed on a $10 million New Markets Tax Credits transaction to support the construction of the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s new 25,000-square-foot facility in southwest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe building is scheduled to be completed later this year, and once it opens, the Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) will be able to bring innovative, arts-focused youth development programming to Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside neighborhoods.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe facility, located at 434 Peeples St. SW, will have an emphasis on engaging teens through the arts to achieve positive youth development outcomes. It replaces the currently outdated and underutilized John Harland facility and will be the first Club of its kind for emphasis on arts programming. The dedicated arts spaces will include music and film studios, visual arts studio and gallery, dance studio, maker space, graphic design and tech lab, and a spoken word caf\u0026eacute;.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAll this will be open and accessible to all BGCMA members. The organization was founded in 1938 and currently operates 25 locations across metro Atlanta.\u0026nbsp; They serve 9,000 unique members annually and see 3,500 individuals daily. Programming revolves around three core areas: academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character/leadership. Eighty-four of their funds are spent on programming, and member fees are only $50 per school year, which can be waived for financial need. The Club has seen strong results, as at the close of the 2015-2016 school year 95% of 6th-12th grade members were on track to graduate high school on time.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Boys and Girls club projects that 225 individuals will be served at this facility daily, up from the current total of 131 daily, and 1,100 individuals will be served annually. They will also look to partner on additional programming with Atlanta Public Schools, Woodruff Arts Center, SCAD, and Moving in the Spirit.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePhoto Credit: Boys and Girls Club of Metro Atlanta\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":179,"title":"Pittsburgh Yards Marks Groundbreaking With Community Celebration","promo_title":"Pittsburgh Yards Marks Groundbreaking With Community Celebration","published_date":"2018-03-12","featured_image":{"id":574,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"pittsburgh_yards_v5.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":891660,"resource_updated_at":"2018-03-12T15:58:48.837-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-03-12T15:58:48.875-04:00","updated_at":"2018-03-12T16:02:42.559-04:00","filename_hash":"pittsburgh_yards_v5_E665yDo.png","width":789,"height":625},"filename":"pittsburgh-yards-marks-groundbreaking-with-community-celebration","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"nQ8Shw","created_at":"2018-03-12T15:57:11.828-04:00","updated_at":"2018-03-12T16:02:42.546-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Residents of southwest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Pittsburgh neighborhood gathered together to celebrate the groundbreaking ceremony for Pittsburgh Yards, a development that will be a catalyst of economic growth and equity for southside communities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidents of southwest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Pittsburgh neighborhood gathered together to celebrate the groundbreaking ceremony for Pittsburgh Yards, a development that will be a catalyst of economic growth and equity for southside communities.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAlso in attendance were members of the Atlanta City Council, Invest Atlanta,\u0026nbsp;the Columbia Core Partners development team, and leaders from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the nonprofit philanthropy that owns the parcel and has invested toward ensuring the development benefits the community.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePittsburgh Yards will be a key community-focused, economically-inclusive asset for the Southside and for the city as a whole. When complete, it will offer accessible rental rates for local small businesses to thrive. This in turn will create a range of employment and entrepreneurship opportunities even as it bolsters the sense of community in this part of the city.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic landscape is changing with more major development initiatives breaking ground south of Interstate 20,\u0026rdquo; said Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u0026ldquo;Pittsburgh Yards will create a range of employment and entrepreneurship opportunities that will help bring new, sustainable growth and nearly $40 million in economic impact to the area.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe $26 million first phase of development will happen on the eastern side of the property around an existing 61,000 square foot structure that will create work spaces at accessible rental rates for approximately 100 businesses, including light-industrial, administrative, artisanal, maker and creative enterprises. A large, natural-turf green space will be created, along with a business-centric area that features repurposed shipping containers that will be used as work spaces and storefronts. The first phase will also include necessary road, sewer, storm-water management, landscaping and pedestrian-oriented infrastructure \u0026mdash; including a spur to the Atlanta BeltLine \u0026mdash; as well as three adaptable pad-ready sites.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe first phase of the development create approximately 200 new permanent jobs. And over the next decade, that number will climb to 1,000 new positions. And importantly, Annie E. Casey will work with the Center for Working Families and other organizations to ensure local residents have access to employment and training opportunities.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePittsburgh Yards is a critical project for south Atlanta, which over the next few years will see unprecedented levels of investment, from the former site of Turner Field to the Atlanta BeltLine to Ft. McPherson to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta supported this project with a New Markets Tax Credits allocation through our community development subsidiary, Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. Since 2010, AEMI has invested in 16 projects, including Grady Hospital\u0026rsquo;s Emergency Center and Women and Infants Center, as well as Families First\u0026rsquo;s new headquarters.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnd recently, Mayor Bottoms announced the news that AEMI will receive another $60 million allocation from the U.S. Treasury Department. We stand at the ready to support many more game-changing projects like Pittsburgh Yards in the years to come.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":177,"title":"URFA Supports 100+ Affordable Rental Units for Seniors in Vine City","promo_title":"URFA Supports 100+ Units for Seniors in Vine City","published_date":"2018-03-02","featured_image":{"id":560,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"oasis_vine_city_v1.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1702537,"resource_updated_at":"2018-03-02T14:21:57.875-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-03-02T14:21:57.924-05:00","updated_at":"2018-03-02T15:15:22.010-05:00","filename_hash":"oasis_vine_city_v1_8mmZxZK.png","width":1159,"height":704},"filename":"urfa-supports-100-units-for-seniors-in-vine-city","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"gvRI3w","created_at":"2018-03-02T14:22:06.825-05:00","updated_at":"2018-03-02T15:15:21.997-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Urban Residential Finance Authority (URFA) closed on $10 million in tax-exempt bond financing transaction to support the construction of 105 units of senior housing at Oasis of Vine City.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Urban Residential Finance Authority (URFA) closed on $10 million in tax-exempt bond financing transaction to support the construction of 105 units of senior housing at Oasis of Vine City.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe groundbreaking for Oasis of Vine City will take place in the coming months, and once complete, it will offer units to seniors over the age of 62 at\u0026nbsp;60% Area Median Income (AMI). (The 60% AMI income limit for FY2017 is $29,280 for a one-person household, and $33,480 for a two-person household.) All renters will pay no more than 30% of their income towards rent.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis project closing represents a great start to the year after the team supported the creation or retention of a nearly 2,000 affordable units, a record for the organization, in 2017. Knowing how critical it is for the city\u0026rsquo;s growing senior population to have access to affordable living options, the Community Development team has been working to complete this deal for several years.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOasis of Vine City will be located near Rodney Cook Sr. Park and amenities will include a fitness center and energy-efficient appliances.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":175,"title":"IA Supports Workforce Housing at Edgewood-Candler Park MARTA Station","promo_title":"IA Supports Workforce Housing at Edgewood-Candler Park MARTA Station","published_date":"2018-02-20","featured_image":{"id":545,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"edgewood_tod_new.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1509798,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-20T15:18:59.257-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-20T15:18:59.300-05:00","updated_at":"2018-05-29T13:48:19.855-04:00","filename_hash":"edgewood_tod_new_XJJX9B4.png","width":953,"height":604},"filename":"workforce-housing-edgewood-tod","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"trl6Ag","created_at":"2018-02-20T15:19:51.867-05:00","updated_at":"2018-05-29T13:48:19.837-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A new transit-oriented development (TOD) near the Edgewood-Candler Park MARTA Station will include 34 affordable workforce housing units, thanks to support from Invest Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA new transit-oriented development (TOD) near the Edgewood-Candler Park MARTA Station will include 34 affordable workforce housing units, thanks to support from Invest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe IA board approved a resolution to issue $42.9 million in lease purchase bonds to support the project. The residential and retail development is nearly complete, and once open, will offer 224 rental units, 34 of which will be workforce housing units affordable to households earning 80% AMI or below.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBy converting underutilized parking to productive mixed-use space, this TOD will provide new mixed-income housing, retail, and service options to the surrounding community. The total economic output for the project is estimated to be over $60 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis project aligns with Invest Atlanta\u0026#39;s goal to create more affordable living options close to transit, and with it, greater access to opportunities for our residents. Invest Atlanta has supported MARTA\u0026rsquo;s Transit Oriented Development strategy with other projects, including one at \u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/invest-atlanta-supports-projects-key-to-citys-past-present-and-future\"\u003eKing Memorial Station\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUPDATE: \u003c/strong\u003eInvest Atlanta closed on the $42.9MM lease-purchase bond in early May 2018, a few months before the development\u0026#39;s grand opening.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":173,"title":"Board Supports Creation of 180 Affordable Rental Units for Seniors","promo_title":"Board Supports Creation of 180 Affordable Rental Units for Seniors","published_date":"2018-02-20","featured_image":{"id":542,"parent_id":8,"resource_file_name":"sylvan_hills_senior_new_site.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2043236,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-20T14:30:17.970-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-20T14:30:18.029-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:49:55.633-05:00","filename_hash":"sylvan_hills_senior_new_site_ZOOYgrP.png","width":1138,"height":715},"filename":"board-approves-support-for-180-affordable-rental-units-for-seniors","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"VWZsAw","created_at":"2018-02-20T14:31:11.037-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:49:55.603-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for the construction of Sylvan Hills Senior, a brand-new affordable housing development in southwest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors approved financing for the construction of Sylvan Hills Senior, a brand-new affordable housing development in southwest Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnce complete, the multifamily housing development will offer 180 units to seniors over the age of 62. All the units are reserved for those making 60% of Area Median Income (AMI) and qualifying residents will pay no more than 30% of their income on housing costs.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is great,\u0026rdquo; said Randy Hazelton, the board\u0026#39;s Treasurer. \u0026ldquo;There\u0026rsquo;s obviously a huge need for affordable senior housing in and around the city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Benoit Group will soon begin work on the four-story wood-framed building lcoated in the Sylvan Hills community. The propertiy is be easily accessible from several MARTA bus stops and Highway 166, and will include amenities like a community room, business center, courtyard, energy star appliances, and washer dryer hookups.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe board approved\u0026nbsp;two resolutions supproting this project\u0026nbsp;at their monthly board meeting on Thursday, February 15. The first was an inducement resolution to issue $15 million in tax-exempt bond financing, and the second was a Housing Opportunity Bond loan resolution for $1.5 million.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re bringing these types of tools to the market at just the right time,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, Interim VP of Community Development.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":162,"title":"Cristo Rey Atlanta Officially Opens New Downtown Building","promo_title":"Cristo Rey Atlanta Officially Opens New Downtown Building","published_date":"2018-01-31","featured_image":{"id":508,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"cristo_rey_main-1024x529.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":113713,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-06T14:59:09.757-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-06T14:59:09.786-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:54:51.689-05:00","filename_hash":"cristo_rey_main-1024x529_r6NxO1m.jpg","width":1024,"height":529},"filename":"cristo-rey-atlanta-officially-opens-new-downtown-building","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"AaYMWg","created_at":"2018-02-04T13:31:14.874-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:54:51.675-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Cristo Rey Atlanta celebrated the grand opening of their new 88,000 square-foot Downtown facility with the help of several high-profile guests, including Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Governor Nathan Deal.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCristo Rey Atlanta celebrated the grand opening of their new 88,000 square-foot Downtown facility with the help of several high-profile guests, including Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Governor Nathan Deal.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I want you all to know that as a city, we continue to support you, we continue to cheer you on and we continue to await your leadership,\u0026rdquo; Mayor Bottoms said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. \u0026ldquo;Because you are the future of our great city. You are the example that we want all of our communities to model.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2017,\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.atlantaemergingmarkets.org/\"\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc.\u003c/a\u003e, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s certified Community Development Entity, closed an $11 million New Markets Tax Credits transaction to help Cristo Rey Atlanta complete the renovations of their new building. Raza Development Fund and SunTrust Bank also provided NMTC allocations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has done so much work with all of our partners to make sure that we are here today,\u0026rdquo; added Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;On your toughest days, please remember there\u0026rsquo;s a city that stands behind you, a city that stands with you, there\u0026rsquo;s a city awaiting your future.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCristo Rey Atlanta (CRA) is an independent affiliate of the Cristo Rey Network of 32 schools nationally. The CR network serves students of limited means, most whom are Hispanic or African-American, and combines a challenging college preparatory curriculum with extracurricular activities and an innovative Corporate Work Study Program. CRA\u0026nbsp;was previously leasing its campus, serving nearly 400 students from grades 9-11. The new facility will allow them to accept an incoming freshman class and serve 520 total students, with the capacity to grow enrollment to 600 in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe campus also provides\u0026nbsp;CRA with resources that were previously unavailable, such as a gymnasium, assembly space, music and arts space, and their own kitchen. The $27 million project is located on Piedmont Avenue in a central location near multiple MARTA stops and bus lines to maximize the area that can be served by the school. The project is anticipated to retain 42 and create approximately 22 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) positions.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLast year, Cristo Rey partnered with 100 Atlanta businesses to place every student in an office work-study job while completing their academic studies.\u0026nbsp;CRA exclusively serves Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economically disadvantaged students of all faiths by opening the door to excellence in higher education, the workforce, community citizenship and Catholic values. Religion is not a criteria for admission, and 48% of the student body is non-Catholic. Low family income is the number one qualifying criterion for CRA students. The average household income for CRA families is $30,500 (no household income exceeds $15,000 per dependent). 98% of CRA students qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe academic rigor and innovative work-study program has helped 100 percent of Cristo Rey graduates earn college acceptance since 1996. In most cases, these students will be the first person in their extended family to go to college, providing them with a path to opportunity. Across the CR Network, students\u0026mdash;95% of whom are first generation college students\u0026mdash;complete college at a rate over 2.5 times that of their non-Cristo Rey peers in the same income cohort.\u0026nbsp; For the class of 2018, CRA projects that 70% of its graduates will complete a bachelor\u0026rsquo;s degree within 5 years, or nearly 5 times the average rate for low-income high school graduates.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) offers service providers like Cristo Rey flexible financing to support catalytic projects that serve low-income residents. In November 2016, AEMI received a $50 million NMTC allocation from the U.S. Department of Treasury.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBesides Cristo Rey, AEMI provided NMTC allocation to several other important projects in 2017, including the Grady Hospital Women\u0026rsquo;s and Infants\u0026rsquo; Center, the Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club Innovation and Expression Studio (TIES), the YMCA headquarters, and Civic Impact Loans.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":166,"title":"IA Ends 2017 On High Note With Support For Hundreds of Affordable Housing Units","promo_title":"IA Ends 2017 On High Note With Support For Hundreds of Affordable Housing Units","published_date":"2018-01-11","featured_image":{"id":512,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"city-lights-2_rendering_main.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1002626,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-06T15:02:43.943-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-02-06T15:02:43.982-05:00","updated_at":"2019-12-24T08:34:05.064-05:00","filename_hash":"city-lights-2_rendering_main_RJNvPDD.png","width":1073,"height":494},"filename":"ia-ends-2017-on-high-note-with-support-for-hundreds-of-affordable-housing-units","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"-cAO3A","created_at":"2018-02-04T13:53:56.199-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-06T15:02:50.243-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta closed on several important affordable housing projects to put the total number of affordable housing units supported this year at 1,962.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAs 2017 came to an end, Invest Atlanta closed on several important affordable housing projects to put the total number of affordable housing units supported this year at 1,962. Below are the multi-family and senior housing projects Invest Atlanta closed in December:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCity Lights II:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003eInvest Atlanta issued $11.5 million in tax-exempt bonds to finance Wingate Companies\u0026rsquo; City Lights II, a 96-unit multifamily project located at 444 Boulevard in the Old Fourth Ward Neighborhood.\u0026nbsp; This new construction project will provide affordable housing targeting families at or below 60% AMI.\u0026nbsp; AHA will provide a Housing Assistance Payment Contract, allowing residents to pay no more than 30% of their income towards housing costs. This is the second phase in a five-phase development in the Old Fourth Ward Community, and Invest Atlanta previously funded City Lights I, a senior development that was fully leased prior to completion.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEdgewood Court:\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta issued $26.4\u0026nbsp;million tax exempt bonds to finance the acquisition and rehabilitation of Edgewood Court, a 222-unit multifamily project located at 1572 Hardee Street, NE.\u0026nbsp; This project will provide preservation of affordable housing targeting families at or below 60% AMI. AHA will provide a Housing Assistance Payment Contract for 80% of the units, allowing residents to pay no more than 30% of their income towards housing costs.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeorgia Avenue:\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;A total of $52.2 million lease purchase bonds were issued to support the first phase of the Georgia Avenue mixed-use development, which contains 120-units of multifamily rental housing, of which 18 are set aside as workforce affordable units. The development, located Turner Field Stadium Area, will also house retail and creative office space.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAllen Hills \u0026amp; Rolling Bends I:\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta issued $58 million in tax exempt bonds to finance the acquisition and rehab of Allen Hills, a 458-unit multifamily project located at 3086 Middleton Road, NW in the Westhaven neighborhood. In addition, $25\u0026nbsp;million in tax exempt bonds will finance the acquisition and rehab of Rolling Bends I, a 164-unit multifamily project located at 2500 Center Street, NW, in Carey Park.\u0026nbsp; Both projects preserve affordable housing targeting families at or below 60% AMI, with HUD providing a Housing Assistance Payment Contract for 100% of the units, allowing residents to pay no more than 30% of their income towards housing costs. The developer is Preservation Partners Development is a California based development group specializing in the acquisition and preservation of HUD insured and assisted affordable housing developments.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis year, the organization looks forward to continuing our work supporting the construction and preservation of affordable housing throughout the City of Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Old Fourth Ward\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":167,"title":"Invest Atlanta Names Dawn Luke Chief Operating Officer","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Names Dawn Luke Chief Operating Officer","published_date":"2018-01-09","featured_image":{"id":513,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"dawnluke-cco-facebook-v2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":85002,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-06T15:03:32.732-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-06T15:03:32.759-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-06T15:03:40.419-05:00","filename_hash":"dawnluke-cco-facebook-v2_4XEZym6.jpg","width":1200,"height":537},"filename":"invest-atlanta-names-dawn-luke-chief-operating-officer","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"2wZvEQ","created_at":"2018-02-04T13:56:20.053-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-06T15:03:40.411-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta announced the appointment of Dawn Luke as chief operating officer of Invest Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta announced the appointment of Dawn Luke as chief operating officer of Invest Atlanta. As a longtime employee of Invest Atlanta and member of its Executive Team, Ms. Luke brings substantial knowledge of Invest Atlanta and all facets of the agency\u0026rsquo;s operations to the position. In her new role, Ms. Luke will oversee Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s finance, information technology, human resources and investment services departments, and continue to support Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s community development programs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I could not be prouder to announce Dawn Luke as our new COO,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;She is a proven leader and a passionate advocate for community development and affordable housing. I look forward to working alongside her as we strive to make Invest Atlanta more efficient, responsive and innovative than ever before.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith more than 20 years of experience at Invest Atlanta and the Urban Residential Finance Authority, she is an expert in housing development, finance, neighborhood investment and other areas of community development. Ms. Luke previously served as Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s senior vice president of Community Development and was responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction in the successful execution of a shared vision of comprehensive community development, quality affordable housing, and economic growth in the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s 10 Tax Allocation Districts (TADs).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBefore that, she was Managing Director of Housing Finance for five years overseeing the successful implementation of over $250 million in pivotal affordable housing programs which served to provide viable housing solutions for Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s workforce, seniors, disabled and individuals confronted with homelessness. During her tenure with Invest Atlanta, Ms. Luke also managed and operated a multifamily and single-family housing bond portfolio of approximately $1.6 billion and more than 20,000 units of housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It is an honor and privilege to accept this position,\u0026rdquo; said Dawn Luke. \u0026ldquo;Over the years, I have seen Invest Atlanta grow into one of the premier organizations of its kind in the world, thanks in large part to our talented and dedicated staff. Under the leadership of Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Dr. Klementich, our organization will continue to play a key role in fostering growth, equity and inclusion in Atlanta. I cannot wait to get started in this role.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMs. Luke earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from Spelman College and a MBA in International Business from Georgia State University. She currently serves as President Emeritus of the board of directors of Georgia Sustainable Committee Alliance, Chairwoman of the Southwest Atlanta Partnership board of directors, an active member of the board of directors for the National Association of Local Housing Finance Agencies (NALHFA), the Atlanta Land Trust as well as Partners for Prosperity.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":169,"title":"BRE Team Supports CapTech’s Expansion at Bank of America Plaza","promo_title":"BRE Team Supports CapTech’s Expansion at Bank of America Plaza","published_date":"2018-01-03","featured_image":{"id":515,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"captech_main-1024x610.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":92957,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-06T15:04:51.813-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-06T15:04:51.841-05:00","updated_at":"2018-05-07T16:09:32.942-04:00","filename_hash":"captech_main-1024x610_ymQpOeO.jpg","width":1024,"height":610},"filename":"bre-team-supports-captechs-expansion-at-bank-of-america-plaza","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ws9Nrw","created_at":"2018-02-04T14:04:35.766-05:00","updated_at":"2018-05-07T16:09:32.908-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The company recently moved to Bank of America Plaza, and plans to add 50 new positions this year.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) team met with executives from CapTech, a management and IT consulting firm growing its presence in Atlanta.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe company recently moved to Bank of America Plaza, and plans to add 50 new positions this year. CapTech is a national firm based in Richmond, Virginia, but opened an Atlanta office\u0026nbsp;to gain access to the city\u0026rsquo;s high concentration of Fortune 500 companies and talented workforce.\u0026nbsp; CapTech chose Bank of America Plaza specifically for it\u0026rsquo;s location near Georgia Tech and a MARTA rail station.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;The tech market in Atlanta is just booming and CapTech\u0026rsquo;s business in Atlanta is growing faster and more robustly than expected,\u0026rdquo; a CapTech spokeswoman\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2017/11/10/atlanta-pitching-the-gulch-as-no-1-site-for-amazon.html\"\u003esaid recently\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCapTech has been already become active in the surrounding communities. Since opening their Atlanta office, the company has participated in Coca-Cola\u0026rsquo;s Year Up program, worked with Usher\u0026rsquo;s New Look, and supported the Covenant House.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nThe BRE team recently met with company representatives to discuss incentives, including the Opportunity Zone Tax Credit, which offers a maximum annual tax credit of $3,500 per new job for five years. They also discussed how to meet their workforce development needs and made\u0026nbsp;introduced the company to other regional organizations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Midtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":1,"title":"Historic Atlanta Constitution Building Is Sold","promo_title":"Historic Atlanta Constitution Building Is Sold","published_date":"2017-10-19","featured_image":{"id":40,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"constitution_building_feature.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":930046,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-18T17:07:38.001-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-18T17:07:38.103-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-19T12:04:58.855-05:00","filename_hash":"constitution_building_feature_gvVg9W3.png","width":800,"height":600},"filename":"historic-atlanta-constitution-building-is-sold","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"DKJCpw","created_at":"2017-12-19T12:04:57.892-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-19T12:04:57.892-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Atlanta Constitution building will be redeveloped into a mixed-used development with 34 affordable housing units.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors has approved the sale of the Atlanta Constitution building, which will be redeveloped into a mixed-used development with 34 affordable housing units. This historic structure has been vacant since the 1970\u0026rsquo;s.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is a project that\u0026rsquo;s near and dear to all our hearts,\u0026rdquo; said Dawn Luke, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Senior Vice President of Community Development. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re excited because this project not only protects and restores a blighted property, but it also provides a much-needed asset in Downtown Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOn Thursday, October 19, the board awarded the sale of the building located at 143 Alabama Street for $2 million to Pope \u0026amp; Land and Place Properties. The joint venture will redevelop the property into a mixed-use project that will include into 67,000 square-feet of loft office and 2,5000 square-feet of retail space. It will also include a residential component with at least 112 new multi-family rental units, 34 of which will be income-restricted to households earning 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis project will preserve an historic building, serve as an economic anchor bringing 24-hour vitality to South Downton, and provide 30-year housing affordability in Downtown Atlanta. The $40.6 million project is estimated to have an economic impact of $56.5 million and will create 360 permanent jobs in the new office and retail spaces. Construction is expected to begin in the summer of 2018, with the office portion wrapping up in 2019 and the residential construction ending in early 2020.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n South Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":10,"title":"New 20PLUS Homebuyer Incentive Launches at West Highlands Open House Tour","promo_title":"20PLUS Homebuyer Incentive Launches at West Highlands Open House Tour","published_date":"2017-10-06","featured_image":{"id":215,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"west_highlands_ecd_feature.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":60842,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:27:47.230-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T13:27:47.375-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:29:03.380-05:00","filename_hash":"west_highlands_ecd_feature_YBNeevz.jpg","width":732,"height":550},"filename":"new-20plus-homebuyer-incentive-launches-at-west-highlands-open-house-tour","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"77x9ZQ","created_at":"2017-12-20T13:29:02.934-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:29:02.934-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n More than 100 attendees attended the West Highlands Open House to tour homes and learn about our 20PLUS homebuyer incentive.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMore than 100 attendees came to the West Highlands Open House, where they toured model homes for sale and learned about 20PLUS, the newest\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/intown-living/homebuyer-incentives/\"\u003eInvest Atlanta homebuyer incentive\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe event, held on Saturday, September 30, showcased newly-constructed, affordable homes available for sale to prospective 20PLUS participants in West Highlands, an award-winning, Brock Built master planned community in West Midtown. On the tour, visitors saw single-family homes and townhomes, as well as the area\u0026rsquo;s walking paths, playgrounds, and open greenspaces.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e20PLUS offers 20% of the home purchase price towards your down payment and closing costs, and may be compatible with down payment assistance programs offered by Invest Atlanta community partners.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAt the open house tour, mortgage lenders, real estate agents, and Invest Atlanta Homeownership Center specialists were available to share resources to assist homebuyers achieve and maintain affordable, intown living with 20PLUS. Invest Atlanta also hosted a special Homebuyer Q \u0026amp; A Session for helpful information about 20PLUS and other incentives that help reduce down payment and closing costs for prospective homebuyers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Homebuying/ Homeownership\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":11,"title":"Atlanta BeltLine’s Westside Trail Officially Opens","promo_title":"Atlanta BeltLine’s Westside Trail Officially Opens","published_date":"2017-10-04","featured_image":{"id":216,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"westside_trail_feature_-1-.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":827622,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:34:21.438-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T13:34:21.822-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:35:28.114-05:00","filename_hash":"westside_trail_feature_-1-_8myOOlr.jpg","width":4688,"height":3516},"filename":"atlanta-beltlines-westside-trail-officially-opens","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ncZgEw","created_at":"2017-12-20T13:35:27.583-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:35:27.583-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Westside Trail, a new three-mile corridor on the Atlanta BeltLine, is now open and available for everyone to enjoy.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Westside Trail, a new three-mile corridor on the Atlanta BeltLine, is now open and available for everyone to enjoy.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at Gordon White Park on Friday, September 29. In attendance were Mayor Kasim Reed, Rep. John Lewis, Atlanta BeltLine Inc. President and CEO Brian McGowan, Atlanta BeltLine Partnership Executive Director Rob Brawner, Invest Atlanta President and CEO Dr. Eloisa Klementich, and many others.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe $43 million investment brings the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. closer to its goal of connecting every community in the City of Atlanta. Running from Washington Park to Adair Park in Southwest Atlanta, the new 14-foot wide multi-use trail features 14 access points, public art and greenway. Of the 14 access points, 11 entrances are ADA accessible \u0026ndash; representing more accessibility than any other trail in the city. For a half mile along White Street, the trail will use the existing West End Trail.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Today is a good day in the City of Atlanta as we celebrate a promise kept with the opening of the new Westside Trail,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Kasim Reed. \u0026ldquo;My Administration was committed to working with the Atlanta BeltLine and other partners to make this shared public space available in Southwest Atlanta, connecting some of the city\u0026rsquo;s most important and historic neighborhoods in a new way while honoring them with such a valuable and significant investment.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Westside Trail is the largest expansion of the Atlanta BeltLine since its inception. The amenity connects four schools, four parks and a dozen Westside neighborhoods. The trail will also feature murals, sculptures and other artwork.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are proud to celebrate this significant milestone in the Atlanta BeltLine\u0026rsquo;s history \u0026ndash; the opening of the Westside Trail,\u0026rdquo; said Brian McGowan. \u0026ldquo;This trail will have a transformative effect on the city and will foster new jobs, promote business creation and ensure livable communities in Southwest Atlanta. As we continue to build upon this amenity, we are 100 percent committed to working with the community to identify the unique needs that must be built in our planning as much as our concrete trails are.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":79,"title":"New Community Space Honors English Avenue’s Mattie Freeland","promo_title":"New Community Space Honors English Avenue’s Mattie Freeland","published_date":"2017-04-04","featured_image":{"id":289,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"mattie_house_400.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":826601,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:32:12.030-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T13:32:12.397-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:32:32.557-05:00","filename_hash":"mattie_house_400_38XmmKP.jpg","width":4032,"height":3024},"filename":"new-community-space-honors-english-avenues-mattie-freeland","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"AI2SAg","created_at":"2017-12-21T13:32:31.707-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:32:31.707-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Mattie Freeland Community House will host workshops, classes, and meetings for English Avenue residents.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Mattie Freeland Community House officially opened on Friday, March 31 in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s English Avenue neighborhood.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis new space will host workshops, classes, and meetings, all offering nearby residents a place to learn new skills, make connections within their community, and grow as individuals. Classes will focus on areas such as financial literacy, computer basics, and resume building. Neighbors will also be able to come together to discuss issues impacting the community such as affordable housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMattie Freeland, known affectionately as \u0026ldquo;Miss Mattie,\u0026rdquo; was an English Avenue anchor and icon for decades, opening her home to children and offering support to those in need.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;From this corner she brought healing, from this corner she brought restoration, and from this corner she brought reconciliation,\u0026rdquo; said New Life\u0026rsquo;s Senior Pastor Rev. Timothy Rodgers. \u0026ldquo;We will continue to build on her legacy and continue what she was doing here.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Mironda Williams, Miss Mattie\u0026rsquo;s granddaughter, was there to celebrate the grand opening, and shared stories of how her grandmother encouraged her to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor. Dr. Williams also announced that she was launching The Mattie Elizabeth Patterson Freeland Foundation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;What I hope that foundation will be is to replicate what has happened in this community, and create community safe spaces for our children, for our neighbors, for our elderly,\u0026rdquo; she said.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA few minutes later, Councilmember Ivory Lee Young, Jr. (District 3) surprised Dr. Williams with the announcement he was donating $10,000 to the foundation to assist on developing a nearby park to honor Miss Mattie\u0026rsquo;s legacy.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYoung said the area will be a \u0026ldquo;visible reminder of how we are all called to love those around us.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMany volunteers and organizations were involved in completing the construction of the Mattie Freeland Community House, including New Life Covenant Church, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, the Home Depot Foundation, Holder, Hunt, Russell, and Moody and English Avenue residents.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta was involved from the start to ensure Miss Mattie\u0026rsquo;s house became a community resource, and several staff members volunteered their time to help with painting and landscaping.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Mattie Freeland Community House is only a block away from nine newly upgraded affordable housing units at the Hagar Housing Development, another Invest Atlanta project that also opened recently on the Westside.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":82,"title":"Resurgens Fund Grants to Bring New Life to Eastside Properties","promo_title":"Resurgens Fund Grants to Bring New Life to Eastside Properties","published_date":"2017-03-24","featured_image":{"id":292,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"hub_featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":62842,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:44:17.266-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T13:44:17.400-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:44:37.128-05:00","filename_hash":"hub_featured_xD2nnMq.jpg","width":788,"height":591},"filename":"resurgens-fund-grants-to-bring-new-life-to-eastside-properties","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"4D0Q3w","created_at":"2017-12-21T13:44:36.541-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:44:36.541-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n One grant will allow The Ethical Property Group to create a new space for non-profit organizations.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt their March meeting, the Invest Atlanta board approved two Resurgens Fund grants, including one that will allow The Ethical Property Group to create a new space for non-profit organizations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The Resurgens Fund was deliberately created to with the intention of reactivating these vacant and obsolete buildings,\u0026rdquo; said Jennifer Fine, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Vice President of Planning and Strategic Initiatives.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Ethical Property Group will receive a grant of up to $547,565 to transform a vacant commercial property on Auburn Avenue into The Hub. The bottom floor of The Hub will offer office space for local non-profits, while the top floor will consist of short-term and long-term \u0026ldquo;micro unit\u0026rdquo; apartments. Two of the units will be available for rent with income restrictions to ensure affordability.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe recipient of another Resurgens Fund grant of up to $297,115 will renovate a two-story historic building dating back to the late 19th century, at 101 Peachtree St. SW in South Downtown. Once fa\u0026ccedil;ade improvements and interior renovations are complete, the building will house a first-floor retail space and the second floor will bring two much-needed residential apartment units to the area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSouth Downtown, Fine pointed out, is an area where Invest Atlanta really sees a \u0026ldquo;tremendous need for this type of funding.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has now issued three Resurgens Fund grants within the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD). In December 2016, the board approved a $1 million grant for the future Sweet Auburn Ballroom, an entertainment space located along the Atlanta Streetcar route.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":86,"title":"Work Begins on Phoenix House Affordable Housing Complex","promo_title":"Work Begins on Phoenix House Affordable Housing Complex","published_date":"2017-03-08","featured_image":{"id":296,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"work-begins-on-phoenix-house-affordable-housing-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":45146,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:55:27.108-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T13:55:27.243-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:55:45.251-05:00","filename_hash":"work-begins-on-phoenix-house-affordable-housing-featured_p5VDm2p.jpg","width":710,"height":532},"filename":"work-begins-on-phoenix-house-affordable-housing-complex","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"XyvzDw","created_at":"2017-12-21T13:55:44.752-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:55:44.752-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Phoenix House broke ground on the site of their 69-unit affordable housing complex reserved for the homeless and mentally disabled.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe groundbreaking ceremony for Phoenix House, the future site of a 69-unit affordable housing complex reserved for the homeless and mentally disabled, took place on Friday, March 3.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLeading the project are Invest Atlanta, The National Housing Trust Enterprise Preservation Corporation (NHT-Enterprise)\u0026mdash;a Washington, D.C. non-profit affordable housing owner and developer\u0026mdash;Tapestry Development Group, and 3Keys, Inc.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta awarded a $500,000 Housing Opportunity Bond-CHDO loan in support of this project, which is another example of the investments being made in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCouncilmember Joyce Sheperd (District 12) and project partners were there to celebrate the launch of this $10.2 million redevelopment.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThree existing buildings on the Phoenix House property which will be rebuilt to feature 69 efficiency units, and two houses will be rehabilitated for continued use as tenant common space and property staff offices. Once complete, the Phoenix House will offer many great amenities to its residents, including a computer center, job training, supportive services for the special needs population, and access to mass transit at the nearby Oakland City MARTA Station.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Southside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":89,"title":"Invest Atlanta Joins College and Career Week at Hollis","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Joins College and Career Week at Hollis","published_date":"2017-03-06","featured_image":{"id":303,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"invest-atlanta-joins-college-and-career-week-at-hollis-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":138567,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:11:20.704-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T14:11:20.847-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:12:03.065-05:00","filename_hash":"invest-atlanta-joins-college-and-career-week-at-hollis-featured_982qa3V.jpg","width":1000,"height":750},"filename":"invest-atlanta-joins-college-and-career-week-at-hollis","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Z6oKQA","created_at":"2017-12-21T14:12:02.194-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:12:02.194-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The team spent a day at Hollis, part of a week of career-related activities exposing students to professional possibilities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePresident and CEO Dr. Eloisa Klementich, Assistant General Counsel Justin Giboney, Mortgage Loan Specialist Michele Lewis, and Vice President of Compliance Christie Barnes recently took part in Michael R. Hollis Innovation Academy\u0026rsquo;s College and Career Week. The team spent a day in February with the students, and it was part of a full week of career-related activities meant to expose a broader scope of future educational and professional possibilities open to the Hollis students.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHollis is a PreK-8 STEM neighborhood school on the Westside led by Dr. Diamond Jack. Their College and Career Week is just one way in which Hollis is taking hands-on approach to learning, allowing kids to connect the instruction they\u0026rsquo;re getting in the classroom to the real world. Guest speakers from Invest Atlanta, as well as a Delta Air Lines pilot, came to speak with the students.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEveryone from Invest Atlanta had a wonderful time and came away impressed by the sharp questions the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade students asked. Dr. Klementich informed students about all of the exciting developments going on in the city, while Giboney spoke about the importance of doing great work each and every day. Barnes talked about her experience going to law school and how her education opened up a world of opportunities for her. And as a fun way to show how Invest Atlanta can help families buy a home, Lewis worked with the kids to decorate a play house.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn December, Dr. Klementich and Invest Atlanta, along with Portman Holdings, worked with Dr. Jack to raise $10,000 to provide all of Hollis\u0026rsquo; students with two school uniforms each.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":130,"title":"Atlanta Land Trust Collaborative Nominates IA’s Dawn Luke to Board","promo_title":"Atlanta Land Trust Collaborative Nominates IA’s Dawn Luke to Board","published_date":"2016-11-16","featured_image":{"id":363,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"atlanta-land-trust-collaborative-nominates-ias-dawn-luke-to-board-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":84892,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:37:36.162-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T15:37:36.317-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:37:54.260-05:00","filename_hash":"atlanta-land-trust-collaborative-nominates-ias-dawn-luke-to-board-featured_4X3JZ7P.jpg","width":405,"height":304},"filename":"atlanta-land-trust-collaborative-nominates-ias-dawn-luke-to-board","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"PfvDNg","created_at":"2017-12-21T15:37:53.644-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:37:53.644-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Dawn Luke has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Atlanta Land Trust Collaborative (ALTC).\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDawn Luke, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Invest Atlanta, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Atlanta Land Trust Collaborative (ALTC).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA coalition of public, private, and community partners, the ALTC supports the creation of permanently affordable housing around the Atlanta BeltLine and throughout the City of Atlanta. The ALTC began in 2009 and functions as a \u0026ldquo;central server\u0026rdquo; organization supporting independent non-profit CLCs as they develop and operate permanently affordable housing initiatives. The organization is led by the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership, Georgia Advancing Communities Together (Georgia ACT), and the Annie E. Casey Foundation Atlanta Civic Site.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLuke\u0026rsquo;s knowledge and experience as a leader in housing development, finance, and policy will be critical as she advises the ALTC on how to implement new neighborhood-based, resident-controlled community land trusts in Atlanta. She will also ensure the ALTC continues to implement national best practices of community land trusts and remains an effective steward of public, private, and philanthropic funds.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, Luke and her fellow board members will help the ALTC make Atlanta a city of mixed-income neighborhoods for generations to come.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":36,"title":"Auburn Avenue Building Gets a Facelift","promo_title":"Auburn Avenue Building Gets a Facelift","published_date":"2016-08-17","featured_image":{"id":243,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"340-auburn-avenue-gets-a-facelift-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":68746,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T16:12:47.220-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T16:12:47.375-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T16:13:29.181-05:00","filename_hash":"340-auburn-avenue-gets-a-facelift-featured_YBNelVz.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"auburn-avenue-building-gets-a-facelift","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Z0ezjQ","created_at":"2017-12-20T16:13:28.629-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T16:13:28.629-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The exterior renovation of 340 Auburn Avenue, partly financed through a grant awarded by Invest Atlanta, has been completed.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe exterior renovation of 340 Auburn Avenue, which was partly financed through a grant awarded by Invest Atlanta, has been completed and fully funded. Work on the project began last October and included the installation of new storefront systems, front and back windows and awnings, as well as graffiti removal and brick repair.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe downtown fa\u0026ccedil;ade improvement grant provided $63,371 of the total project cost of $156,237. Invest Atlanta allotted these funds from the Eastside Tax Allocation District to Sweet Auburn Apartments, LLC, the owner of the property.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Downtown Fa\u0026ccedil;ade Improvement Grant (DFIG) program provides a 2/3 matching grant to property and business owners to make exterior improvements to commercial property in the Eastside and Westside Tax Allocation Districts (\u0026ldquo;TAD\u0026rdquo;). This grant was created to enhance the appearance of commercial areas, supporting the Atlanta Streetcar, leveraging private investment, and complementing community revitalization efforts.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGene Kansas Real Estate is listing the property for sale; interested parties can call Gene Kansas at 404-635-0027.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":45,"title":"NAVMAR Uses Eastside TAD Grant To Improve Edgewood Avenue Property","promo_title":"NAVMAR Uses Eastside TAD Grant To Improve Edgewood Avenue Property","published_date":"2016-07-21","featured_image":{"id":254,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"navmar-uses-eastside-tad-grant-to-improve-edgewood-avenue-property-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":66707,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:23:57.347-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T10:23:57.483-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:24:51.985-05:00","filename_hash":"navmar-uses-eastside-tad-grant-to-improve-edgewood-avenue-property-featured_W1aK8pj.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"navmar-uses-eastside-tad-grant-to-improve-edgewood-avenue-property","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"bR-XkA","created_at":"2017-12-21T10:24:51.467-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:24:51.467-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A Downtown Fa\u0026ccedil;ade Improvement grant from the Eastside TAD will support the exterior refurbishment of 381 Edgewood Avenue.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA $111,625 downtown fa\u0026ccedil;ade improvement grant awarded by Invest Atlanta from the Eastside Tax Allocation District to NAVMAR, LLC has been used to help refurbish the exterior of 381 Edgewood Avenue. Work on the project, formerly known as 393 Edgewood Avenue, began last January and was completed in June of this year. The site will soon host a new bicycle-oriented business.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBefore undergoing a full renovation, including new electrical and plumbing infrastructure, the one-story building had been just a shell. But now, the property has new windows, doors, and paint, and a second-story rooftop patio. And, the adjacent vacant lot has been transformed into a fully paved and landscaped side patio.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTotal project cost was $421,000, of which $305,000 \u0026ndash; including the Invest Atlanta grant \u0026ndash; paid for the all of the exterior fa\u0026ccedil;ade renovations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Eastside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":51,"title":"Loan to Finance Rehabilitation of Apartments For Senior and Disabled Citizens","promo_title":"Loan Finances Rehabilitation of Apartments For Senior and Disabled Citizens","published_date":"2016-06-16","featured_image":{"id":260,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"loan-to-finance-rehabilitation-of-apartments-for-senior-and-disabled-citizens-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":56030,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:41:50.357-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T10:41:50.492-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:42:59.763-05:00","filename_hash":"loan-to-finance-rehabilitation-of-apartments-for-senior-and-disabled-citizens-featured_azn3EwX.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"loan-to-finance-rehabilitation-of-apartments-for-senior-and-disabled-citizens","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"LcZq8w","created_at":"2017-12-21T10:42:59.196-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:42:59.196-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta closed on a $9.5-million tax-exempt loan to renovate the Ralph David Abernathy Towers Apartments in the West End.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has closed on a $9.5-million tax-exempt loan to acquire and renovate the 100-unit Ralph David Abernathy Towers Apartments in the Historic West End.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe property, which houses people who are 62 years of age and older as well as physically disabled persons, will receive new energy-efficient appliances, kitchen cabinets, fixtures, countertops and flooring. Other building refurbishments will include new high-performance energy-efficient sliding windows and doors, upgraded elevators, roof and boiler replacements, and energy cost-saving solar panels.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRenovated community rooms also will be part of the renewal project, along with a new courtyard picnic area, indoor/outdoor exercise and activity spaces, and new community gardens. An onsite resident activities coordinator also will be coming on board to help residents make maximum use of the facilities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDecember 2017 is the project completion date for the renovations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMore good news for the residents of Abernathy Towers comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); everyone living at Abernathy Towers will continue to pay no more than 30 percent of their income for rent and utilities because HUD has extended the property\u0026rsquo;s housing-assisted payments contract.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eApplying this type of lending instrument to improve affordable housing is nothing new to Invest Atlanta, since it was the first finance authority in Georgia to use tax-exempt loans.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":57,"title":"Refunding of Eastside TAD Bonds Saves Atlanta $10 Million","promo_title":"Refunding of Eastside TAD Bonds Saves Atlanta $10 Million","published_date":"2016-06-16","featured_image":{"id":266,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"refunding-of-eastside-tad-bonds-saves-atlanta-10-million-dollars-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":72923,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:54:38.448-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T10:54:38.589-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:55:30.455-05:00","filename_hash":"refunding-of-eastside-tad-bonds-saves-atlanta-10-million-dollars-featured_BxkNq77.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"refunding-of-eastside-tad-bonds-saves-atlanta-10-million","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"IiF7qQ","created_at":"2017-12-21T10:55:29.912-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:55:29.912-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta and the City of Atlanta have refunded $36.4 million of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s outstanding Eastside Tax Allocation District bonds.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta and the City of Atlanta have refunded $36.4 million of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s outstanding Eastside Tax Allocation District bonds. The transaction will save Atlanta $10 million on interest payments over the next 14 years.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Eastside Tax Allocation District, encompassing parts of east and south Downtown, Sweet Auburn, the Old Fourth Ward and Grant Park, has provided $39 million in funding assistance to several projects that have created jobs, boosted the tax base and improved the District\u0026rsquo;s economic vitality. In turn, that TAD financial assistance has leveraged $367 million in private investment in projects including: TWELVE, 30 Allen Plaza, Renaissance Walk, Capitol Gateway, land acquisition for Memorial Greenway and building fa\u0026ccedil;ade improvements along the Atlanta Streetcar route.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"}]}