Atlanta Beltline, Inc. and Invest Atlanta boards of directors approved the FY27 budget of $265.8 million as the project progresses toward its 2030 trail completion goal.
The FY27 budget draws from a diverse mix of funding sources, including the Beltline Tax Allocation District (TAD, Atlanta’s Special Service District (SSD), philanthropic support, plus local, state and federal grants, according to a press release from ABI.
The Beltline TAD remains the primary funding mechanism, accounting for approximately $192.5 million – roughly 72.4% of the total budget.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s in the 2027 budget:
Mainline Trail Delivery, Design & Construction – $128.6 million
Design and construction remain the top funding category, underscoring the Beltline’s push to meet the 2030 deadline to finish all 22 miles of mainline trail plus 11 miles of connector trails. Progress in the next year includes work on one of the Beltline’s largest and most complex projects, the Northeast Trail – Segment 3 + Connector Trails.
Real Estate – $45.4 million
The Beltline remains focused on acquiring the land needed to complete the mainline trail, specifically the northern corridor, while advancing its land acquisition strategy.
Affordable Housing & Commercial Space – $41 million
The Beltline has reached 81% of its goal to create or preserve 5,600 affordable housing units by 2030. By the end of FY27, it is expected to exceed 95%, according to the press release.
Economic Development – $13 million
The Beltline’s economic development programs support small businesses and entrepreneurs with incubator programs and affordable retail containers. Examples include the Beltline Business Solutions Office, Beltline Business Ventures, Atlanta Beltline Marketplace, facade grants to improve business frontage and workforce development.
Transit – $6.7 million
In June, the Beltline launched ATL Spoke, an autonomous public transit pilot program, connecting the MARTA West End Station with the Southwest Trail at Lee + White. FY27 funding also supports MARTA elevator improvements at the Bankhead MARTA Station, the Murphy Crossing Infill Station and transit studies that will shape future transit investments.
Planning, Engagement & Art – $2.6 million
In FY27, $2.6 million will fund planning, community engagement and the arts, supporting public and committee meetings, outreach efforts and the development and refinement of Subarea Master Plans. These funds also power the Southeast’s largest outdoor temporary public art exhibition, with commissioned installations and special events spanning the trail, adjacent neighborhoods and parks, including the beloved annual Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade.
