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The Atlanta Botanical Garden is set to embark on a significant expansion project that will add approximately eight acres to its existing facilities.
This expansion, projected to cost around $150 million, has been in the planning stages for nine years and is finally slated to break ground in late Fall 2025.
The development aims to enhance the Garden’s offerings and features.
Key Details of the Expansion:
Location: The new expansion will extend north along Piedmont Avenue, integrating with the Atlanta BeltLine, which is a major urban redevelopment initiative in the city.
Design and Features: The expansion will include new display gardens, water features, a visitor center, orangerie, café, and a beer garden. The project is being designed by the landscape architecture firm Hoerr Schaudt.
Completion Timeline: The newly developed area is expected to open its doors to the public by 2026.
Goals: The expansion aims to increase pedestrian connectivity and accessibility to the gardens, enriching visitor experiences and further beautifying the urban landscape.
This strategic expansion is expected to solidify the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s status as a pivotal urban oasis, enhancing cultural and recreational offerings in the area.The Garden has continued to grow and evolve, hosting special exhibits and events, such as the Greenhouse and Orchid Center, which opened in recent years. It has become an important cultural institution in Atlanta, attracting visitors worldwide and offering various programs focused on education, conservation, and research.
Like a true garden, the Atlanta Botanical Garden has had its share of growth spurts through the years.
Significant Expansions:
2000: The Fuqua Conservatory and Tropical Rainforest were inaugurated, showcasing diverse plant species and creating an environment for tropical and subtropical plants.
2002: The Garden opened the Canopy Walk, which allows visitors to walk through the treetops, offering a unique perspective on the plant life.
Recent Developments:
2010: The Garden celebrated its 30th anniversary and continued to expand its educational programs and community outreach.
2013: The Edible Garden was introduced, emphasizing sustainable gardening practices and the importance of locally grown food.
Explore Your Atlanta
Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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In Atlanta’s evolving housing market, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is one of the smartest first steps for prospective homebuyers. And to get a mortgage, you need to be pre-approved.
As we enter 2026, the metro area is transitioning toward a more balanced market, with inventory levels rising to around 4-5 months of supply and median home prices hovering near $380,000-$440,000, depending on the neighborhood. While prices have seen slight dips in some areas over the past year, demand remains steady thanks to job growth and events like the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
At this point, you should have saved up all the money you can for a down payment.
If you’re already pre-approved for a home loan, it signals to the loan officer, real estate agent and seller that you’re ready to purchase — and not playing around.
What Is The Best Way To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage?
The best way to get pre-approved for a mortgage is to have all your paperwork in order, but it includes more than that.
Your credit score is of paramount importance to a mortgage lender, but more on that later.
Current 30-year fixed mortgage rates in Georgia are averaging around 6.0%-6.6%, offering relative stability compared to recent highs.
With forecasts suggesting a balanced market in 2026, pre-approval positions you to act quickly on opportunities. Many Atlanta sellers and agents prefer or require a pre-approval letter with offers.
Follow These 3 Steps To Get Approved For A Mortgage
This article will go over the steps you need to get pre-approved so that you can get a mortgage.
First, let’s go over what a mortgage pre-approval is and how it works for you.
A mortgage pre-approval is a preliminary step to buying a home. It involves an initial offer from a lender to loan you a certain amount of money so that you can buy a home.
What Is A Mortgage Pre-Approval And How Does It Work?
The amount of money that the lender pre-approves is based on their evaluation of your three things:
- Your Creditworthiness
- Your Finances
- Your Job Outlook
A mortgage pre-approval will require that you hand over a lot of your personal information, including your Social Security number for a credit check and more.
1. Get Your Free Credit Report
The first step you need to do is get a free copy of your credit report. You can do that by going to AnnualCreditReport.com.
Start by reviewing your credit report (free annually from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Aim for a score of 720+ for the best rates. Pay down debts and avoid new credit applications to keep your score strong.
AnnualCreditReport.com is a government-backed website that shows you your credit reports from the Big 3 credit Bureaus: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
2. Shop Around for a Lender
Different lenders offer different mortgage products and may have different criteria for pre-approval. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders to find the best terms for your situation
3. Get Your Credit Scores
You’ll also want to find out what your credit scores are from the Big 3 credit bureaus. If your credit scores are low with a particular credit-reporting agency or with all of them, you should try to improve them.
Here’s how to improve your credit score easily.
What Credit Score Is Needed For A Home Loan In Georgia?
In Georgia, as well as elsewhere, you’re going to need a credit score on the high end to qualify for a home loan.
According to Credit Karma, which uses the Average VantageScore 3.0 model, the national qualifying average credit score is 717. In Georgia, you’ll need a score around 700 to purchase a home.
f your credit score is lower than you’d like, take steps to improve it before applying for a mortgage. This can include paying down existing debts, making all your payments on time, and avoiding opening new lines of credit.
4. Have Your Financial Paperwork In Order
Before you get pre-approved, you’ll need some documents for verification purposes. These include:
- Recent pay stubs (last 30-60 days)
- W-2s or tax returns (past two years)
- Bank statements (2-3 months)
- Proof of assets (investments, retirement accounts)
- Information on debts (loans, credit cards)
- ID (driver’s license, Social Security card)
If you plan to have someone on the loan with you — perhaps a spouse or significant other — they will have to submit some personal information as well.
To apply for a mortgage pre-approval, you’ll need to provide various documents, including proof of income (such as pay stubs or tax returns), proof of assets (such as bank statements), and information about your debts (such as credit card balances and loan payments).
Submit Your Application
Apply online, by phone, or in person. The lender will run a hard credit inquiry and verify your info. This typically takes a few days to a week.
5. Get Pre-Approved!
Once you gather all of that financial information, you can submit it for mortgage pre-approval to your lender of choice. You will get a pre-approval letter informing you of the amount.
Here’s a pro tip you might want to consider: Always try to get pre-approved with more than one lender. This increases your chances of getting pre-qualified exponentially.
Once you’ve chosen a lender, you can apply for pre-approval either online, over the phone, or in person. The lender will review your financial information and credit history to determine how much they’re willing to lend you and at what interest rate.
If you meet the lender’s criteria, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter stating the maximum amount you can borrow and the terms of the loan. This letter can be used to show sellers that you’re a serious buyer when making an offer on a home.
Once you’re approved, you can start to search for your dream home in Atlanta or any city you want to live in.
Conclusion
Your mortgage pre-approval is just that, a pre-approval. That means it still might not go through due to financial issues that come up.
Let’s say you lose your job during the pre-approval process. Then it’s a good chance, the lender will back out and your mortgage won’t be approved.
That’s why it’s a good idea to dispute any issues on your credit report or any other issues that come up. Here’s how to dispute your credit report.
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
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Unlike coffee, hot chocolate has an untold number of young fans that love the delicious taste.
Atlanta has plenty of cozy spots where you can enjoy a rich, decadent cup of hot chocolate, whether you’re in the mood for something classic or a little more inventive. Here are some of the best places in Atlanta to grab a cup of hot chocolate:
Xocolatl Chocolate
99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Vibe: Known for its wide selection of chocolates and desserts, Xocolatl Chocolate offers a variety of hot chocolate options. They serve a rich and creamy hot chocolate, with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and chocolate shavings.
Why Go: Perfect for chocolate lovers who want to explore other decadent options like truffles, cakes, and fondue in addition to hot chocolate.
Cafe Intermezzo
100 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Vibe: This European-style cafe has a cozy atmosphere with an extensive dessert menu, including rich and creamy hot chocolate. They offer traditional and spiced versions, and the atmosphere is perfect for relaxing or chatting with friends.
Why Go: Known for its beautiful ambiance and expansive drink menu, Cafe Intermezzo is ideal for a sit-down experience.
Voga Italian Gelato
299 North Highland Avenue Northeast G, Atlanta, GA 30307
Here’s what one reviewer says about Voga. “Yes, they have hot chocolate. Also, this is the best gelato I’ve ever had! The texture was dense, creamy, and silky. I will come back every time I visit!! Also the ducks outside were cute and friendly!”
Alon’s Bakery & Market
1394 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 (and in Dunwoody)
Vibe: This charming bakery and cafe offers delicious hot chocolate, often served with a few extra treats on the side like a chocolate croissant. The cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for sipping something warm.
Why Go: Known for both its bakery and drink selections, Alon’s is a great place for those who want a more refined experience, with a selection of gourmet pastries and chocolates.
Cafexito Mexican Coffee Shop
900 Murphy Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
One reviewer says: “I visited this coffee shop for the first time since they moved from Sylvan Road to Murphy Ave. in West End Atlanta. They’re now inside of Create ATL, an eclectic, create co-working space for creative businesses in Atlanta. It’s a very cool and cozy atmosphere for lounging, relaxing, and catching up on work. Whether you’re looking for a good cup of coffee in the area or want to check out a dope event space, this location is certainly worth the visit. While you’re there, grab a warm pastry and check out some of the interesting books on display. I love cold brewed coffee with a splash of oat milk, and this place did not disappoint. The barista was kind enough to offer any needed adjustments to my drink, but it was perfect the first time. Thank you! I’ll see you guys soon for sure.”
Why Go: Perfect for those who want something a little different, combining coffee and hot chocolate into a fun, seasonal indulgence.
French Broad Chocolate at Ponce City Market
675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Suite N 146, Atlanta, GA 30308
One reviewer says: “A little taste of Asheville in Atlanta. This brand new hidden gem at Ponce City Market behind Honeysuckle Gelato/Cake Culture is not to be missed. It will be the best hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted in your life. The brownies are decadent and well worth the price. You can tell a lot of love and high quality ingredients go into everything they make. Try it now before everyone finds out about it! The lines for this place in Asheville are always out the door.”
Why Go: If you’re looking for a more convenient, customizable hot chocolate fix, French Broad Chocolate is a great option.
Dancing Goats
650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
One reviewer says: “Loved the aesthetic and their hot chocolate was pretty good too!”
Little Tart Bakeshop
- 99 Krog St., SE Atlanta, Ga
- 437 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Vibe: A charming bakery in the heart of Atlanta, Little Tart offers both rich hot chocolate and a selection of delicious, handmade pastries. It’s a great stop for a sweet treat in a cozy setting.
Why Go: Perfect for combining your hot chocolate with a fresh pastry in a cute, welcoming atmosphere.
Final Sip
Whether you’re looking for a decadent, artisanal cup of hot chocolate or a more casual, cozy spot to relax with a warm drink, these Atlanta cafes and bakeries offer a variety of options to satisfy your sweet tooth during the colder months!
Coffee, anyone? Atlanta’s Black Coffee Guide is perfect for those who want culture with their cup.
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Yes, you can earn extra income every month from your home in Atlanta. All you need is a laptop or phone and you can earn. All you need is the right strategy.
This article will share some ways you can get started making money online.
The key to financial success may be right in the comforts of your own home. We’re going to cover ways you can make money online in Atlanta, but first you should know this:
How to Make Money Online In Atlanta
We’re not talking about any get-rich quick scheme or multi-level marketing. We’re talking about generating income from your own sweat equity via computer.
Sell Your Arts & Crafts
Are you a maker? There are several places you can sell your wares across town.
To get started, invest in a nice art canvas or some paint brushes that will allow you to experiment.
if making things with your hands is more your cup of tea, a pottery and clay sculpting kit would be a great place to start. Once you buy what you need, Atlanta has some great locations to sell your wares.
Here are some places you can set up shop:
Other sites that let you sell your handmade wares include:
Become A Blogger
If you have a passion for writing, you can become a blogger to make money online. You can start a blog on one of the major platforms like:
Atlanta has plenty of writing jobs that you can do online. In addition to traditional job sites, Craigslist Atlanta has all types of writing jobs available.
UItimate Guide: How To Become a Blogger.
Read more on what clients look for in How To Hire A Virtual Assistant.
Virtual Assistants can make a consistent monthly income from doing the things they have expertise in. You can also hire a virtual assistant for projects you need to get done.
Rent Your Home On Airbnb
You can rent your home out on Airbnb and make some supplemental income on a regular basis. Turning your home into a bed and breakfast has its benefits.
The monthly income is on average $1,651, according to Airbnb. But of course, it depends on your home. The more you fix it up, the higher price you may fetch.
If your home is not Airbnb-ready, you’ll need to beautify it the best you can. Some things you’ll need are:
- A fresh coat of interior paint
- Why stop there? Paint the outside as well
- Got hardwood floors? Get some deep brown shellack
The good thing about Airbnb is that you can review your guests before you accept them into your home. If you’re thinking about trying it, list your home for a weekend to see if it’s for you.
Ultimate Guide: Renting Your Home on AirBnb
Fill Out Surveys Online
One of the easiest ways to make money online is to fill out survey sites, which can pay you real money that can be deposited to your PayPal account.
One of the best survey apps to use is Google Opinion Rewards, which pays users with Google Play or PayPal credit.
Here are some top survey sites that pay you cash.
Sell Hair Online
The hair-selling industry is a multibillion dollar business. So, the feasibility of it is unquestioned. With technology, the ease of getting into selling hair is easier than ever now.
If you’re interested in learning more, see how Hair Selling Guide.
Freelancing
Photo by Samson Katt from Pexels You can become a freelance writer or contractor in a profession that you know a lot about. While a lot of your opportunities will have to do with your skill level, many companies are open to hiring freelancers because it saves on payroll and insurance costs.
But becoming a freelancer can’t be a high-paying job. Here’s how to become a freelancer with no experience.
Find Your Missing Money
Photo credit: Thought Catalog via Unsplash There’s one way you can get a windfall without doing any work at all. Your state or city may have some missing money from you.
Get in contact with your state’s revenue department to see if you may have some hidden money.
Get A Work-From-Home Job
Work-from-home jobs are growing at an exponential rate. Not long ago, it was considered rare for employees to work from home. Not anymore.
To work from home, many companies require that you have certain equipment. You’ll most likely need these:
- A computer with a your router with a good, fast connection
- A Bluetooth ear piece to talk on the phone
- A sturdy office desk that you can sit at for long periods
Of course, there are more items to buy, but you get the idea.
Here are some work-from-home jobs in Atlanta that you can do if you’re a mother, infirm or simply want to avoid the daily commute.
Up Next: Who’s Hiring in Atlanta
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Do you need a new pair of glasses, for cheap? Eyewear is a $140 billion industry controlled by Luxottica and a handful of optical companies. To find cheap glasses, you’re going have to look outside of the main websites that sell eyewear.
This article will show you where you can find quality glasses that are cheap on your wallet. But first, you may have a question:
What’s The Advantage Of Shopping For Glasses Online?
Aside from the obvious advantage — convenience — of shopping online for eyewear, there is also the speed in which you can explore different websites and the frames they offer.
Going into a physical store and browsing their selections can wear you after a couple locations, not to mention responding to the sales clerk’s inquiries on what you’re looking for.
Another advantage is that you can save hundreds of dollars shopping for glasses online. The prices that some of these eyewear distributors have are hard to beat compared to your major eyeglass stores.
How Much Do Basic Eyeglasses Cost?
The cost of a pair of eyeglasses varies depending on many factors, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $600 for a good pair.Again, the name brand and prescription have a lot to do with the pricing. With that said, it’s safe to say that the average pair of glasses will cost you around $200 for a quality pair.Here Are Some Of The Best Places To Buy Glasses Online
As you’ll see though, you may be able to get glasses for much cheaper and even under $20.
Lensabl.com
Lensabl.com is a great site to find discounted frames. The styles that they have are a bit limited compared to some of the other sites on this list, but they have quality glasses in more standard designs.
Does Lensabl Take Insurance?
Lensabl accepts Linneo insurance payments, but not other major insurers.
You may be able to get reimbursed by your vision insurance company for your Lensabl purchase. Submit your Lensabl receipt to these insurance companies for reimbursement.
Return policy: Lensabl lets you return glasses that don’t fit right or if the prescription is off. Standard shipping (2-4 business days) is free in the US and done by USPS Priority. Expedited shipping is $20 and is done by UPS overnight (1 business day).
Zenni Optical
Zennioptical.com is one of the cheapest sites to buy glasses online. I’ve seen frames as cheap as $12.95.
Zenni Optical also has a vast selection of different styles. When it comes to frugal prescription eyewear, Zenni is hard to beat.
The cool part? With Zenni’s 3D Virtual Try-On tool, you can upload a video of yourself to get a realistic 180-degree view of how a particular frame will look and fit on your face.
Does Zenni Optical Work With Vision Insurance?
Zenni Optical doesn’t accept vision insurance, but some insurers will accept an invoice copy for reimbursement from the company. Check with your insurance company, and if they do, request an emailed invoice copy from Zenni at service@zennioptical.com.
Return policy: Zenni gives you 30 days from the date you receive the glasses to call them for a return. They will give you a one-time-use 100% store credit (excluding shipping), or for a 50% refund (excluding shipping) to the credit or debit card or PayPal account. Unused accessories can be returned for a 100% store credit or a 100% refund (both excluding shipping).
EyeBuyDirect.com
EyeBuyDirect.com is another great place to find affordable glasses online. They frequently have 50% off sales and frames for as cheap as $26 Like Zenni, EyeBuyDirect.com has a Virtual Try-On feature that lets you see how you look with certain frames on your face.
If you’re unsure of what looks good on you, take EyeBuyDirect’s Fit & Style Quiz to get your answer.
Does EyeBuyDirect.com Accept Insurance?
EyeBuyDirect.com is not currently affiliated with any insurance companies. They can provide you with a detailed copy of your receipt so that you can use your FSA/HSA toward your purchase.
Return policy: If you’re not happy for any reason, EyeBuyDirect.com says you can get a refund or a replacement with no literally no hassle involved. They have a14-Day Fit & Style guarantee which allows customers to make an equal exchange or return with no questions asked.
Liingo Eyewear
At LiingoEyewear.com, you can get a nice pair of prescription glasses starting at around $79. The site’s Frame Fit tool uses your computer’s camera to scan your face and give you frame recommendations.
Does Liingo Eyewear Accept Insurance?
Liingo Eyewear does accept insurance. The company is an out-of-network provider for most insurance companies, which means you might not get coverage.
If your vision insurance does accept for an itemized receipt, contact Liingo at hello@liingoeyewear.com.
Return policy: You get free returns and free shipping up to 60 days.
Goggles4U.com
Goggles4u.com is a well trusted site that features a lot of BOGO (buy one get one free) offers on its frames. With prices as cheap as $4.95, affordability is the focus, no pun intended.
For orders within the United States, you should know that standard shipping is $5.95 and Priority shipping is $9.95.
Does Googles4ucom Accept Insurance?
Googles4u.com does not accept insurance. If you have an FSA/HSA card associated with VISA, Mastercard or AMEX you can pay that way.
Return policy: Googles4u.com has a one-time exchange policy that allows customers to modify their orders if the glasses do not fit. You must report any issues within 15 days of getting your glasses. They encourage you to contact them via Live Chat, Call (1-888-972-9060), or over an email to be sent at steve@goggles4u.com.
Vlooktical
On Vlookoptical.com, you’ll find designer frames for as low as $1 to $6. These frames are lightweight and flashy, but you’d better take good care of them if you want them to last.
Does Vlook Optical Accept Insurance?
Vlook Optical does not accept insurance.
Return policy: Customized glasses are non-returnable. If the glasses have not been personalized, you can return them within 14 days after delivery the product.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the original packaging, unused and in the same condition that you received it.
Final Word
Getting your glasses online is a great way to save money. Just like at your optometrist’s office you typically can get special lenses like:
- Bifocals
- Scratch Resistance
- Blue light or blue cut protection
- Anti-reflection
- UV Protection:
- Hydrophobic coatings
Before you buy online, always review the store’s return policy just in case you need to take the item back.
BEFORE YOU GO, take a look at all the top deals happening on our Retail Page. Don’t pay full price for things when you can get GREAT VALUE on items for low prices. Don’t want to miss a deal? Sign up for our #ATLHaps list HERE🙂 -
One of the largest municipal projects in Buckhead has gotten the green light and may begin construction sooner rather than later. Spearheaded by the Buckhead Community Improvement District (CID), the Lenox Boardwalk project would transform the area for pedestrians and motorists alike.
The boardwalk is part of a three-part project that includes major changes to the thoroughfares around Lenox Square mall encompassing Peachtree and Lenox roads.
This article will tell you all you need to know about the Lenox Boardwalk project.
What Is the Lenox Boardwalk?
The Lenox Boardwalk an urban linear park that aesthetically connects surrounding businesses and landmarks around the Lenox MARTA Station.
The next section of the project provides a showcase of the upscale shopping district around Phipps Boulevard and Peachtree Road. You can expect major facelifts around the area’s sidewalks, ramps and staircases.
The final piece of the puzzle is an elevated pedestrian and bicycle bridge connecting Lenox, Peachtree roads along with Phipps Boulevard.
The bridge will also be an entry and exit way onto HUB404, a half-mile greenspace planned for 400 in Buckhead that will sit above the highway.
The Lenox Boardwalk project in Atlanta is an urban development initiative aimed at transforming the area surrounding Lenox Square, one of the city’s premier shopping destinations. The project focuses on creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment that integrates retail, dining, and recreational spaces. Key features of the Lenox Boardwalk project include:
1. Enhanced Walkability
The design prioritizes pedestrian access, making it easier for visitors to navigate the area and enjoy outdoor spaces.
2. Public Spaces
The project plans to include parks, green spaces, and gathering areas to foster community interaction and promote leisure activities.
3. Commercial Development
There is an emphasis on attracting new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues to the area, enhancing the overall appeal of Lenox Square.
4. Transportation Improvements
The project aims to improve transportation links, potentially incorporating options for public transit, bike lanes, and enhanced vehicle access. The Lenox Boardwalk project reflects broader trends in urban development, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and creating a lively urban environment. As the project progresses, it is expected to significantly impact the surrounding community and contribute to Atlanta’s urban landscape.
When Will the Lenox Boardwalk Be Built?
Construction on the Lenox Boardwalk as well as surrounding projects will begin at different stages in 2025.
The Buckhead CID was recently awarded $10 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program to help fund the boardwalk and HUB404 projects.
This plans are part of the Lenox Road Complete Safe Street project, which when completed will create a 1.25-mile pedestrian-friendly corridor between the Lenox MARTA station and Piedmont Road.
Immerse Yourself In Your AtlantaAtlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Awesome Atlanta Food Specials You Don’t Know About
- Check Out These Hidden Gems In Atlanta
- Cool Places and Things for Couples To Do In Atlanta
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The Beltline. The Gulch. Atlanta real estate projects have a thing for one-word terms. Now comes The Stitch.
The project recently received $157 million in federal funding, with promises of more to come. But what do you know about The Stitch?
In this article, we’ll tell you about The Stitch and when it’s going to be built.
What Is The Stitch?
The Stitch is a proposed infrastructure project in Atlanta designed to create a “cap” over the I-75/I-85 Downtown Connector highway, essentially building a deck or platform over the roadway.
Early plans approved by Urban Land Institute’s advisory services panel called for a vast green space atop the interstate.
This would reconnect parts of the city that were divided by the highway and create new green spaces, parks, and development opportunities. The project aims to stitch together the neighborhoods of Midtown and Downtown, improving walkability and creating more public space.
It’s seen as part of a broader effort to promote urban revitalization, reduce traffic congestion, and provide more green space in Atlanta’s core.
When Will The Stitch Be Built?
The Stitch project in Atlanta is projected to begin construction in 2026, with an estimated completion date in 2029.
This ambitious project aims to transform urban infrastructure and create green spaces in the area.
What Projects Are Similar To The Stitch?
The Stitch project in Atlanta draws inspiration from several urban redevelopment initiatives, including:
The High Line (New York City)
An elevated linear park built on a former railway line that transformed an industrial area into a vibrant green space for public use.
Millennium Park (Chicago)
A public park that integrates art, architecture, and landscape design, enhancing urban life and promoting community engagement.
Klyde Warren Park (Dallas)
A deck park built over a freeway that provides much-needed public green space, connects neighborhoods, and hosts various community events.
Paris’s Promenade Plantée
A linear park built on an old railway viaduct, similar in concept to the High Line, emphasizing the use of historical infrastructure for modern urban needs.
These projects highlight the blend of recreation, aesthetics, and urban connectivity that The Stitch aims to achieve for Atlanta.Final Word
The project has been in the planning stages for several years, but it’s still in the conceptual and fundraising phase as of now.
When it’s all done, The Stitch would bring new residents, jobs, and visitors downtown and include an estimated 3000+ units of affordable housing, something the city badly needs.
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Georgia-Pacific is building one of the America’s largest mixed-use redevelopments and the intent to transform its iconic 51-story world headquarters into a thriving community hub.
The landmark downtown location will be reimagined into a vivid mix of residential living, modern office spaces, retail, restaurants and a landscaped central plaza for gathering.
The redevelopment comes as other large-scale companies are renewing their commitments to downtown Atlanta amid rapid change in the local real estate environment.
Georgia-Pacific announced the plans recently in a detailed press release. The proposed development, scheduled for completion in fall 2027, includes the following:
- More than 400 apartment units on the tower’s uppermost floors, among the highest in the Southeast
- +/- 125,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space
- +/- 600,000 square feet of Class A office space anchored by Georgia-Pacific and Koch
- +/- 35,000 square feet dedicated to a large central plaza
- More than 2,100 parking spaces plus adjacent MARTA and Atlanta Streetcar transportation access
- Future multi-phase development plans include opportunities for a hotel and additional retail and residences
“If realized, this will be more than just a redevelopment; it has the potential to generate economic growth and create mutual benefit for the city, local businesses, their employees, Georgia-Pacific employees and our vibrant community,” said Christian Fischer, president and CEO of Georgia-Pacific. “The office landscape has changed, and we recognize that the adaptive reuse of our site and office tower can create greater long-term value. We are also acutely aware of the need for more residential, shopping, dining, and entertainment options in our downtown neighborhood, which is why Georgia-Pacific is excited to provide a space that will offer unmatched opportunity in Downtown Atlanta.”
Georgia-Pacific has assembled a team of industry-leading experts to bring this project to life, including an in-house, mixed-use development team responsible for leading both the redevelopment efforts and the go-to-market strategy and capitalization of the project. External partners include Rule Joy Trammell + Rubio, architect of record; Healy Weatherholtz, retail broker; Kimley-Horn, civil engineering; Studio Saint, interior design; Brasfield & Gorrie, preconstruction; and Transwestern, consulting and property management.
Georgia-Pacific’s all-in commitment to a community hub space follows a recent trend among Atlanta businesses. Athlete’s Foot in Midtown Atlanta recently opened a store with areas specifically designed as a community hub.
“A thoughtful mixed-use project of this scale on Peachtree promises to launch a long-awaited renaissance for our city’s most important main street business district,” said Clark Dean of Transwestern’s Transaction Sciences Group, who has consulted on this transformational project since its inception.
The ambitious undertaking will blend modern design with the building’s historic presence, revitalizing this prestigious downtown address as the cultural heart of Atlanta.
“This transformative redevelopment is a significant step in moving Atlanta forward, turning an important block in the heart of the city into a vibrant and welcoming destination that breathes new life into downtown. This project aligns with many of our important ‘Moving Atlanta Forward’ initiatives, including expanding much needed housing options and fostering economic revitalization that supports local businesses,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “With redesigned public spaces, new retail and restaurants, as well as easy access to public transit, we are creating a unique downtown neighborhood that will bring fresh energy to our city. This development will draw residents, visitors, and businesses alike, reinforcing our vision of a safe, inclusive, and thriving downtown—one that is family-friendly and nurtures new talent. It’s about building a better Atlanta for everyone—today and for the future.”
This project also promises to be a boon for surrounding businesses by creating a welcoming neighborhood with easy access to amenities and entertainment for companies and their employees seeking to work in the downtown area.
“Georgia-Pacific’s initial plans for a transformative redevelopment of this scale in the heart of Atlanta align perfectly with our vision to reimagine Downtown,” said Katie Kirkpatrick, president & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “A catalyst for economic growth, this project will add momentum to others already underway and contribute to a world-class experience and vibrant neighborhood for years to come.”
Final Word
The Georgia-Pacific Center has been an architectural landmark since its completion in 1982. Notable for its iconic stair-like design made of pink granite, it occupies the historic site of DeGive’s Grand Opera House, later the Loew’s Grand Theatre, where “Gone with the Wind” premiered in 1939. With its distinctive design and historical significance, this project will pay homage to Atlanta’s rich cultural past while shaping its dynamic future.
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Warner Bros. is rebooting the old-school murder mystery series “Nancy Drew” and it will shoot in Atlanta. The series is casting for male and female actors of all types for specific scenes to be shot in Monroe, Georgia this summer.
The new movie, Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase, based off the popular book, will star Sophia Lillis as the title character, according to Deadline. Ellen DeGeneres, Jeff Kleeman, and Chip Diggins will all reportedly be executive producers on the project. See below for what casting directors are looking for:
Casting Call: Nancy Drew Film Looking For Actors In Atlanta Area
***Nancy Drew***
**Monroe area locals needed**Nancy Drew: Hidden Staircase Casting Call
***NANCY DREW***
**KAYAK NEEDED**
Brandi is looking for someone who has a Kayak and a vehicle that is not red, white, or black that can transport the kayak to set to work on the film Nancy Drew and the hidden staircase filming in the Monroe, GA area. There will be additional compensation for the auto and the kayak. If you have a kayak and the appropriate vehicle, and you are interested in doing paid background work on this project, please send an e-mail with a photo of yourself, and the kayak, and the vehicle to nancydrew@centralcasting.com. Please put “KAYAK” in the subject line, and don’t forget contact information. If you are not already registered with Central Casting, you will need to register before the work date. The work date will be sometime during the 1st week of June. Thank You.You must be fully registered with Central Casting in order to submit, or must be able to come to our office in downtown Atlanta and register before the work date. If you are selected to work, a Central Casting representative will contact you. If you are not selected for this category, there will be plenty of other opportunities to work on this film. Thank You.
