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.
