The Atlanta Beltline made significant strides in addressing the city’s affordable housing challenges in 2024, exceeding its annual goal by delivering 569 affordable units, nearly 90% more than the targeted 300.
This accomplishment brings the Beltline to 74% of its goal to create or preserve 5,600 affordable housing units in the Beltline Tax Allocation District (TAD) by 2030, contributing to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens’ citywide target of 20,000 units by the same year.
“We’re hitting our stride in making equitable development a reality,” Clyde Higgs, President & CEO at Atlanta Beltline, Inc., said in a press release. “By leveraging strong partnerships, long-term land planning and innovative funding strategies, we’re on track not only to meet but likely exceed our 2030 goals. This work goes beyond numbers; it’s about creating opportunities for Atlantans to live, thrive and build generational wealth within Beltline communities.”
The Beltline’s success is attributed to its strong partnerships with local organizations, innovative funding, and comprehensive planning, according to the press release. Key projects in 2024 included Englewood Senior Housing (160 units), Stanton Park Apartments (56 units), and the 579 Garson Drive Development, a mixed-use project with 130 affordable units. Additionally, land acquisition efforts have bolstered the Beltline’s ability to sustain long-term affordability with the acquisition of 87 acres for future development.
Another initiative is the Legacy Resident Retention Program (LRRP), which provides property tax relief to long-time homeowners, helping them stay in their homes amidst rising property values. In 2024, the program assisted 250 homeowners, preserving both generational wealth and community stability.
With nearly $11 million in home value appreciation for participants, the LRRP has become one of Atlanta’s most impactful anti-displacement tools, according to the press release.
“We want residents who lived in these neighborhoods for years before the Beltline was built to benefit from the economic opportunities, healthy living, and cultural vibrancy the Beltline creates,” Rob Brawner, Executive Director of Atlanta Beltline Partnership, said. “This program does that while also enabling those who are typically priced out by gentrification to hold onto a rapidly appreciating asset – their home – and build wealth.”
Participants in the program for at least a year have seen their homes appreciate nearly $50,000 on average, with each receiving an average of $2,174 in property tax assistance. Some participants have seen their home values increase by more than $200,000.
“When I purchased my home for $125,000 in 2009, it was about creating generational wealth for my son. Now my home is valued in the mid-three hundreds, but rising property taxes had me worried about losing everything I worked hard for,” said LLRRP participant Tanisha Corporal. “The Legacy Resident Retention Program isn’t just helping me stay in my home – it’s preserving an asset I can pass down to my son while allowing me to remain part of a community I’ve helped build. Having this support meant I could help pay for my son’s college tuition and even transition into consulting work as a licensed social worker. It’s not just about keeping my house; it’s about preserving the legacy of our family and our community.”