{"result":[{"id":452,"title":"Historic Theatrical Outfit to Undergo Renovations","promo_title":"Historic Theatrical Outfit to Undergo Renovations","published_date":"2022-09-21","featured_image":{"id":2056,"parent_id":127,"resource_file_name":"balzer_3.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":141536,"resource_updated_at":"2022-09-21T11:47:12.683-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-09-21T11:47:12.718-04:00","updated_at":"2022-09-21T11:47:48.544-04:00","filename_hash":"balzer_3_3kwmYjl.jpg","width":904,"height":618},"filename":"historic-theatrical-outfit-to-undergo-renovations","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"0K89ig","created_at":"2022-09-21T11:47:48.402-04:00","updated_at":"2022-09-21T11:47:48.402-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s second-oldest professional theater will soon receive a $2 million renovation with financial assistance from a $200,000 Westside TAD Downtown Fa\u0026ccedil;ade Improvement Grant.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta\u0026rsquo;s second-oldest professional theater will soon receive a $2 million renovation with financial assistance from a $200,000 Westside TAD Downtown Fa\u0026ccedil;ade Improvement Grant.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2005, the Theatrical Outfit, which has been operating in Atlanta for 45 years, purchased and renovated the historic Herren\u0026rsquo;s Restaurant building at 84 Luckie St., making it their permanent home. Herren\u0026rsquo;s Restaurant was a prominent business in downtown Atlanta from 1934 until 1987, after which the building remained vacant until it was purchased by Bill Balzer and donated to Theatrical Outfit in 2005.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Theatrical Outfit is now undertaking a $2 million renovation of the Balzer Theater to include expansion of the lobby space, updates to the interior and restoration of the fa\u0026ccedil;ade to create a more visible storefront that historically aligns with the original exterior design.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOther improvements will include a new energy-efficient LED display marquee signage and new and enlarged windows. What\u0026rsquo;s more, the original Herren\u0026rsquo;s sign, which is currently mounted on an interior stairwell, will be relocated to the lobby and illuminated to ensure visibility from the street.\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":423,"title":"Community Builders Revitalize the Westside","promo_title":"Community Builders Revitalize the Westside","published_date":"2021-09-23","featured_image":{"id":1695,"parent_id":78,"resource_file_name":"ada_-_75_griffin_st.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":61863,"resource_updated_at":"2021-09-23T11:39:18.167-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-09-23T11:39:18.202-04:00","updated_at":"2021-09-23T12:25:36.375-04:00","filename_hash":"ada_-_75_griffin_st_gvwMJeN.jpg","width":944,"height":577},"filename":"community-builders-revitalize-the-westside","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"_oOIoQ","created_at":"2021-09-23T12:25:36.352-04:00","updated_at":"2021-09-23T12:25:36.352-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRoyal Family Properties serves as a perfect example of how Invest Atlanta programs are working together to build community capacity for Westside revitalization and encouraging private investment.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta launched the Community Builders program in 2017 to train Westside resident property owners and other community stakeholders in core property redevelopment skills. A year later, the Invest Atlanta Board approved the creation of a $150,000 Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Community Builders Pre-Development Fund to provide graduates of the program with grants for eligible expenses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNow, with help from a recently approved $36,000 Westside TAD Community Builders Grant, Royal Family Properties is able to finance improvements to a residential property on Griffin Street in Vine City. Plans include adding two, one-bed/one-bath living units to the owner-occupied, single-family property. Each unit will be approximately 400 square feet and will be rented to local residents for rates at or below 50% of the area median income for one person.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eApproximately 850 square feet will be added to the existing home, and a new entry will be created for the new dwelling units, with a shared hallway that opens to both new and existing bedrooms. Each new dwelling unit will contain a bathroom, laundry room, closet space and eating area. The existing kitchen will be reconfigured to accommodate use by both the existing bedroom and the new dwelling units.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This program represents what true community engagement and wealth-building means,\u0026rdquo; said Alan Ferguson, senior vice president of Community Development at Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;It ensures that our residents and stakeholders are involved in the transformation that\u0026rsquo;s occurring within their communities and are not just observers. We are hoping to repeat and expand the program in the future.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRandy Hazelton, Invest Atlanta Board member, agreed saying: \u0026ldquo;This project is fulfilling the goal of retaining our legacy communities and doing it at a scale that\u0026rsquo;s accessible to folks who can\u0026rsquo;t come in as a big developer. It\u0026rsquo;s a good step in community engagement that will hopefully build capacity over time in our neighborhoods, and I appreciate the work.\u0026rdquo;\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":389,"title":"Integrity Transformations CDC Receives Funding for Renovations","promo_title":"Integrity Transformations CDC Receives Funding for Renovations","published_date":"2021-02-23","featured_image":{"id":1485,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2021-02-19_at_3.30.55_pm.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":912164,"resource_updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:50:32.805-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-02-23T16:50:32.878-05:00","updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:50:59.292-05:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2021-02-19_at_3.30.55_pm_387qVWB.png","width":1930,"height":1168},"filename":"integrity-transformations-cdc-receives-funding-for-renovations","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"-XFUjw","created_at":"2021-02-23T16:50:59.265-05:00","updated_at":"2021-02-23T16:50:59.265-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved a Westside Tax Allocation (TAD) grant of up to $75,000 to Integrity Transformations CDC (ITCDC) for interior building renovations, technology infrastructure improvements and furniture upgrades at 692 Lindsay Street.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2000","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a Westside Tax Allocation (TAD) grant of up to $75,000 to Integrity Transformations CDC (ITCDC) for interior building renovations, technology infrastructure improvements and furniture upgrades at 692 Lindsay Street.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-fa783640-7fff-5d22-33ac-ec0d1e66c651\"\u003eFounded in 1995, ITCDC is an established, local nonprofit whose mission is to facilitate job training, career readiness and access to jobs within English Avenue, Vine City and the surrounding neighborhoods. The approved TAD funding will be used to renovate and expand two restrooms, upgrade technology infrastructure and purchase furniture for a digital literacy lab, community resource center, training room and staff offices.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAccording to Jennifer Fine, vice president of Planning \u0026amp; Strategic Initiatives for Invest Atlanta, these improvements and upgrades enable ITCDC to continue providing workforce readiness training and job placement services to its clients and modernize its facility. \u0026ldquo;It also will allow them to expand their services and increase capacity amid a growing demand for job placement services,\u0026rdquo; said Fine.\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":364,"title":"Approved Grant Allows Atlanta Beltline to Complete Westside Connector Trail","promo_title":"Approved Grant Allows Atlanta Beltline to Complete Westside Connector Trail","published_date":"2020-11-24","featured_image":{"id":1441,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2020-11-18_at_5.04.27_pm.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":3652484,"resource_updated_at":"2020-11-24T16:43:34.801-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-11-24T16:43:34.924-05:00","updated_at":"2020-11-25T10:01:34.010-05:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2020-11-18_at_5.04.27_pm_gv4yE7Q.png","width":1998,"height":1498},"filename":"approved-grant-allows-atlanta-beltline-to-complete-westside-connector-trail","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"vkVnyg","created_at":"2020-11-24T16:45:50.965-05:00","updated_at":"2020-11-25T10:01:33.978-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved a Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) grant up to $2.3 million to the Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (ABI) to complete construction of the Westside BeltLine Connector Trail.\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-865578b5-7fff-8a86-9ed9-725dc702a4ca\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) grant up to $2.3 million to the Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (ABI) to complete construction of the Westside BeltLine Connector Trail.\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, the grant will serve as a bridge loan to ABI, which typically funds construction efforts that fall outside the Atlanta BeltLine TAD. \u0026ldquo;Although their fundraising has been successful, it has been hampered by the current economic conditions resulting from COVID-19,\u0026rdquo; he says. \u0026ldquo;They are fully committed and believe they\u0026rsquo;ll meet their fundraising goals, but in the interim, this funding allows construction to continue unimpeded.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTargeted for completion in February 2021, the Westside BeltLine Connector Trail will be a 14-foot-wide, multi-use trail approximately three miles in length. It begins at the intersection of Joseph E. Boone Boulevard and Northside Drive and ends at the intersection of Marietta Boulevard and Huff Road.\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":358,"title":"Annie E. Casey Foundation Funds NPU V Small Business Improvement Grant Projects","promo_title":"Annie E. Casey Foundation Funds NPU V Small Business Improvement Grant Projects","published_date":"2020-10-19","featured_image":{"id":1410,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"oct_i_i_annie_foundation.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1647329,"resource_updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:46:45.714-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-10-19T13:46:45.925-04:00","updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:47:22.680-04:00","filename_hash":"oct_i_i_annie_foundation_r6QQ1yB.png","width":1080,"height":905},"filename":"annie-e-casey-foundation-funds-npu-v-small-business-improvement-grant-projects","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"3AFy6Q","created_at":"2020-10-19T13:47:22.654-04:00","updated_at":"2020-10-19T13:47:22.654-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n In 2019, Invest Atlanta was awarded a $65,000 grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation to administer and market a small business improvement program for property owners. The fund is intended to help owners make improvements to their buildings, increase the value of their property, ensure buildings are fit for tenants and create beautification in the commercial corridors.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eIn 2019, Invest Atlanta was awarded a $65,000 grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation to administer and market a small business improvement program for property owners. The fund is intended to help owners make improvements to their buildings, increase the value of their property, ensure buildings are \u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003efit for tenants\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e and create beautification in the commercial corridors.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-bb1c6fba-7fff-bdf8-89bf-221286b3a156\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eInvest Atlanta is now awarding the first of these grants to four different properties in the Pittsburgh, Peoplestown, and Mechanicsville neighborhoods for a total of $40,000. Three of the properties are clustered around McDaniel Street, which is a key corridor in the Pittsburgh neighborhood, and the fourth is on nearby Pryor Street.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re happy to have projects within such close proximity to each other,\u0026rdquo; says Jennifer Fine, \u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003evice president of Planning \u0026amp; Strategic Initiatives for Invest Atlanta\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003e. \u0026ldquo;These property owners take great pride in their buildings, and we\u0026rsquo;re pleased the funding will serve different types of projects within this community.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;\"\u003eRecipients will use the grants for window and door replacement, gates and fencing, as well as waterproofing for much-wanted restaurant space in the community.\u003c/span\u003e\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 Peoplestown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":291,"title":"Innovative Metro Atlanta YMCA Leadership and Learning Center Now Open","promo_title":"Innovative Metro Atlanta YMCA Leadership and Learning Center Now Open","published_date":"2019-09-11","featured_image":{"id":993,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"ymca_hq_insights.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1611012,"resource_updated_at":"2019-09-11T11:01:07.014-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-09-11T11:01:07.101-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-17T14:37:41.867-04:00","filename_hash":"ymca_hq_insights_YB2Jz6x.png","width":1200,"height":715},"filename":"innovative-metro-atlanta-ymca-leadership-and-learning-center-now-open","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Y3O0Wg","created_at":"2019-09-11T11:01:19.333-04:00","updated_at":"2019-09-17T14:37:41.821-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta Leadership and Learning Center officially opened its doors this month in Vine City. This is a place that serves the community through early learning, youth development, workforce training, health and wellness, and community building.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2000","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta Leadership and Learning Center officially opened its doors this month in Vine City. This is a place that serves the community through early learning, youth development, workforce training, health and wellness, and community building.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Center houses\u0026nbsp;the YMCA of Metro Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s 55,000 square-foot headquarters and the state-of-the-art Arthur M. Blank Early Learning Center at E.A. Ware. Opened at the start of the new school year, the Center\u0026nbsp;will empower approximately 90 low-income children from the community to start kindergarten on track for long-term academic success. Accessible early education is essential. Children in low-income neighborhoods face a steeper hill and fall short of key educational milestones at a higher rate than others. A facility like this not only goes a long way in providing support at an early age, it symbolizes opportunity, empowerment, and equity in the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe benefits of Head Start programs are clear. Children who take part make significant progress in language, literacy, math, and social development. They leave Head Start programs like this one better prepared to enter elementary school. And many years down the road, Head Start kids have a higher likelihood of graduating high school and going on to college.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chick-fil-A Foundation Training Center, which opened in May 2019, serves as a hub for innovative professional development and staff training for those in early learning, afterschool, health and wellness, and more. The Y will deliver professional development for more than 4,000 Y employees from across the Southeast through the onsite regional training program. The training center is also available for use by community organizations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Kaiser Permanente Community Wellness Center will host free classes for the community as well as a market and caf\u0026eacute; serving healthy food options.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta provided $2.5 million through the TAD grant approved on Thursday, and Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc., Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s certified community development entity, contributed a New Markets Tax Credit allocation.\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":256,"title":"Small Business Stories: Hop City Craft Beer \u0026 Wine Founder Kraig Torres","promo_title":"Small Business Stories: Hop City Craft Beer \u0026 Wine Founder Kriag Torres","published_date":"2019-03-17","featured_image":{"id":842,"parent_id":1,"resource_file_name":"kt-_hopy_city.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":422700,"resource_updated_at":"2019-03-21T14:14:32.842-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-03-21T14:14:32.885-04:00","updated_at":"2019-04-10T11:35:42.316-04:00","filename_hash":"kt-_hopy_city_E6BkP1R.png","width":846,"height":469},"filename":"small-business-stories-hop-city-craft-beer-wine-founder-kraig-torres","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"jGo7Mg","created_at":"2019-03-21T13:55:46.851-04:00","updated_at":"2019-04-10T11:35:42.275-04:00","video_link":"https://player.vimeo.com/video/325082635","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Hopy City Founder \u0026amp; Cheif Hophead Kraig Torres sat down with Invest Atlanta to talk about what it means to be a part of the Atlanta business landscape and why the West End was a great neighborhood for their newest location\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http://www.hopcitybeer.com/\"\u003eHop City Craft Beer \u0026amp; Wine\u003c/a\u003e Founder and Chief Hophead Kraig Torres sat down with Invest Atlanta to talk about what it means to be a part of the Atlanta business landscape and why the West End was a great neighborhood for their newest location.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHop City is a lifestyle store that specializes in craft beer and wine. Invest Atlanta provided Hop City a \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/small-business-loan-programs\"\u003eBusiness Improvement Loan\u003c/a\u003e for a new location, Hop City West End \u0026amp; Boxcar.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Very early on, Invest Atlanta reached out to me,\u0026rdquo; said Torres. \u0026ldquo;They approached me and said, \u0026lsquo;You\u0026rsquo;re opening in a part of town that we feel strongly about.\u0026rdquo; Invest Atlanta also partnered with Torres on workforce initiatives to identify job opportunities at the new location.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHop City currently has five locations in West Midtown, Krog Street Market, West End, Alpharetta, and Birmingham.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We believe that if you can make it here in Atlanta, you can make it in any city in America.\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 Westside\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":221,"title":"Invest Atlanta Takes Home Two IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Awards","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Takes Home Two IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Awards","published_date":"2018-10-03","featured_image":{"id":723,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"iedc_awards_twitter.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":582007,"resource_updated_at":"2018-10-04T10:00:00.917-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-10-04T10:00:01.107-04:00","updated_at":"2018-10-04T10:01:53.546-04:00","filename_hash":"iedc_awards_twitter_NnLz6nJ.png","width":1000,"height":500},"filename":"invest-atlanta-takes-home-two-iedc-excellence-in-economic-development-awards","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"XWUnNw","created_at":"2018-10-04T10:01:21.927-04:00","updated_at":"2018-10-04T10:01:53.515-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta received a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award for its I-85 Alive Business Rapid Response project in the category of Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Single Event. In addition, Invest Atlanta received a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development\u0026nbsp;Award in\u0026nbsp;the category of Equity and Diversity for its work within the Westside Tax Allocation District.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta won two Excellence in Economic Development awards at the 2018 International Economic Development Council (IEDC) annual conference held this week in Atlanta. IEDC\u0026#39;s Excellence in Economic Development Awards program recognizes the world\u0026#39;s best economic development programs and partnerships, and honors organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban and rural communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta received a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award for its I-85 Alive Business Rapid Response project in the category of Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Single Event. In addition, Invest Atlanta received a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award\u0026nbsp;in the category of Equity and Diversity for its work within the Westside Tax Allocation District.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It is an honor to have the work and dedication of the City\u0026rsquo;s economic development team recognized by the world\u0026rsquo;s most prestigious economic development organization,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;What makes it even more special is that we are being recognized for helping small businesses through a man-made disaster, and our efforts around equity in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside neighborhoods. We hope other economic development agencies around the world can learn from these efforts and implement similar initiatives in their own communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;This year our judges reviewed some extraordinary projects that advanced both communities and businesses,\u0026rdquo; said Craig Richard, CEcD, FM, President and CEO, Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation, and 2018 IEDC Board Chair. \u0026ldquo;We congratulate all the award winners, and thank everyone who nominated their projects for sharing their success with fellow IEDC members. What we learn from each other helps us to grow and advance as a profession. We look forward to even greater participation from economic developers across the globe in the 2019 awards program.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eI-85 Alive Business Rapid Response \u0026ndash;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e2018 IEDC Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award: Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Single Event\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta mobilized to support businesses affected by the March 2017, I-85 overpass fire in Atlanta. An I-85 Alive Small Business Resource Event gave business owners an opportunity to meet with local service providers and assess their options. At the event, Invest Atlanta\u0026#39;s partners offered attendees technical assistance, information about business loans, consulting, and other resources. Featured partners came from more than a dozen business and community organizations, including the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Small Business Development Center, private banks, WorkSource Atlanta, and City officials. Additionally, in partnership with Lyft, transportation options and discounts were offered to make it easier for workers and patrons to access affected\u0026nbsp;businesses. For businesses located within a 1-mile radius of the closure, most merchants experienced immediate declines in economic activity when the road closed, followed by a rebound in sales after I-85 reopened.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWestside Tax Allocation District (TAD) \u0026ndash;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e2018 IEDC Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award: Equity \u0026amp; Inclusion\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1992, the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and the Atlanta School Board established the Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) to spur public and private investment in the neighborhoods west of Downtown Atlanta. Invest Atlanta redoubled these efforts in 2013 through a planning process that engaged more than 300 community stakeholders, focusing on the historic neighborhoods of Vine City, English Avenue, and portions of Castleberry Hill.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic development agency, Invest Atlanta has focused on increasing equity and inclusion through positive redevelopment within the Westside TAD and administering the tax allocation district financing process. These investments have helped to nurture a more vibrant and connected community by enhancing Downtown tourism and building an entertainment core; creating and retaining jobs; building a vibrant office and retail core; supporting mixed-income housing; and improving transportation and pedestrian access.\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 Westside\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":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":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":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":5,"title":"MLK Ignite Capital Grants Awarded to 14 Small Businesses","promo_title":"MLK Ignite Capital Grants Awarded to 14 Small Businesses","published_date":"2017-11-02","featured_image":{"id":210,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"mlk_ignite_feature.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":164235,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T12:49:17.951-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T12:49:18.186-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-06T12:47:01.147-05:00","filename_hash":"mlk_ignite_feature_gvV2gx3.jpg","width":2048,"height":1536},"filename":"mlk-ignite-capital-grants-awarded-to-14-small-businesses","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"O4q2FA","created_at":"2017-12-20T12:50:46.096-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-06T12:47:01.134-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta and Mayor Kasim Reed announced the 14 small businesses receiving MLK Ignite Capital Grants.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt an event held at Atlanta City Hall, Invest Atlanta and Mayor Kasim Reed announced the 14 winners of the MLK Ignite Capital\u0026nbsp;Grant\u0026nbsp;program, which awards $100,000 to small businesses located on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. Under Mayor Reed\u0026rsquo;s leadership, Invest Atlanta created the grant program as part of the city\u0026rsquo;s overall efforts to revitalize the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Corridor. The 14 small businesses will receive $5,000-$10,000 each to meet their immediate, short-term needs, such as building fa\u0026ccedil;ade upgrades, property improvements and equipment purchases. Atlanta City Councilmember Ivory Young, Jr. joined Mayor Reed and Invest Atlanta CEO Dr. Eloisa Klementich for the ceremony today.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The street honoring Dr. King\u0026rsquo;s legacy in Atlanta should and will be one of the most attractive, vibrant and important streets in our city,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Reed. \u0026ldquo;By investing in small businesses along the Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive Corridor, we are supporting the women and men who have supported their communities for years. These businesses offer local residents more choices to shop, dine and work closer to home. I congratulate each one of our grant recipients, and look forward to the changes and improvements they make with the support of the MLK Ignite Capital Grant.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEach small business was required to provide 30 percent of the cost of the capital investment they proposed to make for their business. The grant award covered the remaining 70 percent of the capital cost. The grant funds come from the $10 million federal TIGER VII grant awarded to the City of Atlanta in August 2016, and is the centerpiece of the $35 million renovation to improve safety and mobility and promote economic development along more than seven miles of this this historic street.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The future strength and equity of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economy depend largely on making effective investments in commercial corridors like MLK Drive,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;The work we\u0026rsquo;re doing to support businesses through this program goes hand in hand with our economic growth strategies to increase small business activity and provide access to retail amenities in target areas throughout the city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe grant recipients are:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eLatifah Allah, Unity Hair Salon;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eTerrance Barron, University Barbershop;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eKhadijah Baynes, The Beauty Industry;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003ePhoebe Dawson, Alfonzo Dawson Mortuary, Inc.;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eKenneth Dean, All-Pro Insurance Agency;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eMarion Hargett, Jamal\u0026rsquo;s Buffalo Wings;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eImani Maisonelt, Imani\u0026rsquo;s Too Hair \u0026amp; More Salon;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eEdward Martin, Murden\u0026rsquo;s Barber Shop;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eJaseph Moultrie, Jr., Aesthetic Ink \u0026amp; Design;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eDr. Charles Nichols, Alphia Health \u0026amp; Wellness Solutions;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eCorey Reeves, Aldridge Services, Inc.;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eHope Stoney, Hope Health \u0026amp; Wellness Center;\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eAndrew Taylor, Pro Cuts ATL; and\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003ePauline Warrior, Warnun Industries, Ltd.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe MLK Capital Ignite Grants were funded through the Economic Opportunity Fund for Business Retention and Expansion, approved by the Atlanta City Council in November 2016. Under the leadership of Mayor Reed, the Invest Atlanta board of directors gave final approval for the funding in August 2017.\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":4,"title":"Westside Community Builders Program Officially Launched","promo_title":"Westside Community Builders Program Officially Launched","published_date":"2017-10-30","featured_image":{"id":39,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"community_builders_feature.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":192291,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-18T17:07:37.901-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-18T17:07:37.972-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:30:56.249-05:00","filename_hash":"community_builders_feature_xD2qEjD.jpg","width":800,"height":600},"filename":"westside-community-builders-program-officially-launched","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"I1UL8A","created_at":"2017-12-20T11:41:58.394-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T13:30:55.686-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The first members of the Community Builders program gathered at a welcoming reception to launch of the initiative.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe first members of the\u0026nbsp;Community\u0026nbsp;Builders program gathered at a welcoming reception the Invest Atlanta offices on October 26 to mark the official launch of the initiative.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta created the Community Builders program in response to growing interest from residents on the Westside to learn how to redevelop vacant, abandoned, and blighted commercial and multi-family properties. The goal of the program is to empower participants to partner with Invest Atlanta on the organization\u0026rsquo;s work on the Westside.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThrough this program, participants will learn core property redevelopment skills, and once they complete it, they\u0026rsquo;ll be eligible to apply for funding assistance to support their own redevelopment projects.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has committed $15 million to the Westside Community Fund and leverages these dollars in coordination with public and private partners to address critical areas of need \u0026ndash; such as affordable housing, employment opportunities, and retail development. The work is focused on the neighborhoods of English Avenue, Vine City, and Castleberry Hill.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe work is being done in several different areas. First, IA is working to create and retain the affordable workforce housing stock so more people can call Atlanta \u0026ldquo;home,\u0026rdquo; whether they\u0026rsquo;re renting, leasing, or looking to buy a home.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor example, IA is working with developers to turn 24 vacant properties into new affordable housing units in English Avenue and Vine City that will go to families earning 80%-100% of the area median income. IA is also expanding employment opportunities through our support of great organizations like Westside Works, and supporting area small businesses on the Westside like Steed Media Group through grants and low-interest small business loans. In addition, IA is improving quality of life in many ways, from removing blight to creating greenspace, and reenergizing the MLK corridor with economic investment to supporting service organizations like Families First.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe ultimate goals are to create jobs, invest in neighborhoods, and create greater equity in our communities. This is all being done along with our other economic and community development programs, as well as alongside Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s many public and private partners.\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":31,"title":"Invest Atlanta Hosts Inaugural Westside Housing Fair","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Hosts Inaugural Westside Housing Fair","published_date":"2017-08-08","featured_image":{"id":238,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"westside_housing_fair_1_feature.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":420595,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T15:50:19.380-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T15:50:19.689-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T15:51:13.946-05:00","filename_hash":"westside_housing_fair_1_feature_RJqevOr.jpg","width":3616,"height":2713},"filename":"invest-atlanta-hosts-inaugural-westside-housing-fair","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"307BQg","created_at":"2017-12-20T15:51:13.408-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T15:51:13.408-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The first-ever Westside Housing Fair offered residents valuable housing information, as well as prizes and fun activities for the family.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe first-ever Westside Housing Fair, held on Saturday, July 22 at the Hollis Innovation Academy, offered residents valuable housing information from Invest Atlanta and our partners, as well as prizes and fun activities for the entire family.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe partners participating at the Fair provided valuable insights to attendees, whether they currently rent, already own a home, or are looking to buy a home on the Westside. The highlight of the event was an informative presentation during which each group offered a brief overview of what products and services they provide. Here\u0026rsquo;s a quick overview of the program:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eRenters: The Atlanta Housing Authority spoke about their work on the Westside and the Housing Choice Voucher Program, while Invest Atlanta representatives spoke about our land acquisition efforts and the Dalvigney and Oasis of Vine City developments. The Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation focused on renters\u0026rsquo; rights and the effect of rising property values on Westside renters.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eHomebuyers: Invest Atlanta spoke about our\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/intown-living/homebuyer-incentives/\"\u003edown payment assistance programs\u003c/a\u003e, as well as our new\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/intown-living/trio/\"\u003eTrio lease-to-own option\u003c/a\u003e. The On the Rise Financial Center spoke about preparing for the homebuying process, and Atlanta Habitat for Humanity discussed their future construction plans on the Westside.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eHomeowners: The Westside Future Fund focused on the recently announced Anti-Displacement Tax Fund. Meals on Wheels spoke about their joint work with IA on an owner-occupied rehabilitation program, while the Georgia Heirs Property Law Center emphasized the importance of correcting title issues.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAttendees also enjoyed fun outdoor activities, back-to-school giveaways, prize drawings, and free food. The non-profit Soccer in the Streets even set up an area where children could play a quick game of pickup soccer.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Westside Housing Fair is part of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s larger effort to support the Westside revitalization and resident retention effort. Learn more about Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s work\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/westside-tad-investments/\"\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 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":101,"title":"Westside Residents Learn Latest on Community Projects","promo_title":"Westside Residents Learn Latest on Community Projects","published_date":"2017-02-07","featured_image":{"id":326,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"westside-residents-learn-latest-on-community-projects-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":159755,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:32:32.355-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T14:32:32.515-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:32:48.687-05:00","filename_hash":"westside-residents-learn-latest-on-community-projects-featured_DNxymDB.jpg","width":1000,"height":750},"filename":"westside-residents-learn-latest-on-community-projects","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"3yDFdQ","created_at":"2017-12-21T14:32:48.069-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:32:48.069-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta provided more than 100 Westside residents updates on Community Improvement Fund (CIF) projects happening in their communities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eOn January 25, Invest Atlanta provided more than 100 Westside residents the latest updates on all the Community Improvement Fund (CIF) projects happening in their communities. Invest Atlanta staff, including Vice President of Planning \u0026amp; Strategic Initiatives Jennifer Fine, presented at the Westside Community Benefits Plan Committee meeting.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe committee meets periodically to update communities around the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium on the implementation of the Westside Community Benefits plan. Members include Councilmembers Kwanza Hall (D-2), Ivory Young (D-3), Cleta Winslow (D-4), Michael Bond (Post-1), and Ceasar Mitchell (Council President). Community stakeholders also participate, as do representatives from the Mayor\u0026rsquo;s office, key city departments and agencies, Invest Atlanta and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has committed $15 million to the CIF and leverages these funds in coordination with public and private partners to address critical areas of need in the English Avenue, Vine City, and Castleberry Hill neighborhoods. The fund focuses on these six key areas:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eHousing: Increasing access to homeownership opportunities and affordable rental housing through property redevelopment and rehabilitation.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eEmployment: Increasing access to permanent fulltime jobs through training and job placement.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eBusiness: Strengthening neighborhood businesses and creating more economic activity.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eNeighborhood: Improving streets, parks, and blighted properties to make neighborhoods safer and more attractive.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eSecurity: Improving neighborhood safety and deterring crime.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eCommunity: Supporting service providers and promoting community life.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEarlier in January, Invest Atlanta staff also convened the Westside TAD Neighborhood Advisory Board, a body comprised of representatives from neighborhood and civic associations in English Avenue and Vine City. The board\u0026rsquo;s role is to make recommendations to Invest Atlanta on projects that could receive TAD funding. The homeownership team also hosted a workshop on January 27 with Westside Works graduates to help prepare them for the home buying process. The workshop covered how to secure a mortgage loan, as well as Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s first-time homebuyer incentives.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAt a future community meeting, Invest Atlanta plans to discuss strategies to retain residents through diverse housing models.\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":105,"title":"Invest Atlanta Helps Westside Small Businesses Grow","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Helps Westside Small Businesses Grow","published_date":"2017-01-30","featured_image":{"id":335,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"invest-atlanta-helps-westside-small-businesses-grow-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":41531,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:17.371-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:17.542-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:35.421-05:00","filename_hash":"invest-atlanta-helps-westside-small-businesses-grow-featured_QgDnwml.jpg","width":1000,"height":750},"filename":"invest-atlanta-helps-westside-small-businesses-grow","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"8HOoqw","created_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:34.868-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:34.868-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The small business development team at Invest Atlanta recently closed on two loans for businesses located in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe small business development team at Invest Atlanta recently closed on two loans for businesses located in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHagger International, Inc. received a $50,000 loan to update and renovate Hagger Station, their convenience store serving the Vine City and English Avenue communities. They plan to purchase new equipment for food and beverage service, as well as update existing furniture fixtures.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePamela Baker, an H\u0026amp;R Block tax return preparer and proprietor of Baker Taxx Services, is currently leasing a space on Martin Luther King Drive in southwest Atlanta. She plans to use the $50,000 loan she just closed with Invest Atlanta, along with additional bank financing, to purchase a building of her own along the MLK corridor.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBoth of these entrepreneurs were assisted through the Business Improvement Loan Fund, one of seven available loan funds Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Small Business team taps to provide gap financing to business owners throughout Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDuring his time at Invest Atlanta, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Director of Small Business Development Lonnie Saboor has worked on over 600 projects.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re here to fill the gap for good projects in the City of Atlanta that we think are deserving of financing,\u0026rdquo; said Saboor. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re here to make dreams come true.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSmall business owners interested in learning more about working with Invest Atlanta to start or grow their business can learn more by attending the next informational seminar on Wednesday, February 22 at 5 pm. Future seminars will be held on the third Wednesday of every month.\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 Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":126,"title":"New Westside Financial Capability Center Receives TAD Support","promo_title":"New Westside Financial Capability Center Receives TAD Support","published_date":"2016-12-02","featured_image":{"id":359,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"new-westside-financial-capability-center-receives-tad-support-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":110541,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:22:39.007-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T15:22:39.154-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:23:15.297-05:00","filename_hash":"new-westside-financial-capability-center-receives-tad-support-featured_zmlZRkb.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"new-westside-financial-capability-center-receives-tad-support","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"xg2O_A","created_at":"2017-12-21T15:23:14.746-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:23:14.746-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n $100,000 Westside TAD Community Improvement Fund grant approved to help fund a new Westside Financial Capability Center in Vine City.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors recently approved a $100,000 Westside TAD Community Improvement Fund grant to help fund a new Westside Financial Capability Center in Vine City. Once open, the Center will provide residents with high-quality financial counseling, entrepreneurship training, and homeownership education.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFormer 1st Choice Credit Union CEO Sheilah Montgomery, who spoke passionately on behalf of the project at the IA board meeting, said the Center will help put more Westside residents on the \u0026ldquo;road to financial self-sufficiency.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The goal is to be open to the community and cater to their needs,\u0026rdquo; she added.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eForty-four percent of adults on the Westside live below the poverty line, and the average credit score is around 500. Those without a bank account are often left with no other option than to turn to payday lending or check cashing businesses that charge exorbitant interest rates and fees. Unable to gain their financial footing, many Westside residents find it difficult, if not impossible, to obtain a loan to buy a home or start a business.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Center\u0026rsquo;s one-on-one financial education and services will help residents develop greater financial literacy and gain improved access to services they currently lack. Armed with these resources, more of the unbanked will open bank accounts, strengthen their credit, and eventually acquire safe and affordable home or small business loans.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions sponsored the project, with funding support from credit reporting agency Equifax and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation (AMBFF). Over a three-year period, Equifax has made a $500,000 commitment to support the Center\u0026rsquo;s core operations, while AMBFF has committed to provide the facility and related costs in excess of $100,000 per year.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Westside Financial Capability Center will initially open a temporary site on Joseph E. Boone Boulevard in the former home of Westside Works. AMBFF is providing the space pro bono, and the TAD grant funding from Invest Atlanta will be used to purchase computers, IT equipment, office and classroom furniture and signage at the site.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIt\u0026rsquo;s anticipated that by the end of 2018, the Center will move into a permanent home and begin to offer a full range of transactional financial 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 Westside\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":127,"title":"Westside Students Receive Early Holiday Surprise","promo_title":"Westside Students Receive Early Holiday Surprise","published_date":"2016-12-01","featured_image":{"id":360,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"westside-students-receive-early-holiday-surprise-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":77971,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:24:57.145-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T15:24:57.281-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:25:21.865-05:00","filename_hash":"westside-students-receive-early-holiday-surprise-featured_QgDn1ny.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"westside-students-receive-early-holiday-surprise","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"uTOm2A","created_at":"2017-12-21T15:25:21.396-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:25:21.396-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta is living up to its long-term commitment to help stabilize Westside communities.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta is living up to its long-term commitment to help stabilize Westside communities. The goal is to ensure current residents of neighborhoods like English Avenue, Vine City, and Castleberry Hill benefit from the new investments being made around the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo date, Invest Atlanta has injected approximately $56 million into the transformation of streets, parks, vacant properties and community development in the Westside Tax Allocation District. But the organization\u0026rsquo;s commitment doesn\u0026rsquo;t stop there.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta recently partnered with Michael R. Hollis Innovation Academy, a new PreK-8 STEM neighborhood school led by Dr. Diamond Jack for children in the 30314 zip code. When the community development team first met with Dr. Jack, she spoke about her ongoing effort to provide all of Hollis\u0026rsquo; 560 students two school uniforms. Upon hearing this, Invest Atlanta CEO Dr. Klementich put out a call for donations to her extensive network of local business contacts.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePortman Holdings, an Atlanta-based commercial real estate firm concentrating on urban development, quickly responded. They agreed to cover the entire $10,000 amount Hollis needed to give each student two uniforms, just in time for the holidays. To celebrate, Invest Atlanta staff attended the school\u0026rsquo;s Parent Involvement Day, where parents, teachers, and staff received information about IA\u0026rsquo;s homeownership and small business loan programs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs these Westside partnerships grow, Invest Atlanta will continue to find opportunities to engage Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s robust business community in the revitalization of the city\u0026rsquo;s core neighborhoods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, Invest Atlanta staff continues to volunteer their time to improving the area. Over the past six months, they\u0026rsquo;ve participated in two neighborhood cleanups and helped secure in-kind donations of supplies, all in partnership with the Vine City Civic Association. Staff also took part in the Trunk or Treat festivities at Vine City Park, which provided them a fun opportunity to dress up and hand out candy to Westside youth.\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":129,"title":"New Home for Westside Works Opens in Vine City","promo_title":"New Home for Westside Works Opens in Vine City","published_date":"2016-11-17","featured_image":{"id":362,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"new-home-for-westside-works-opens-in-vine-city-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":52434,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:35:12.174-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T15:35:12.315-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:35:32.850-05:00","filename_hash":"new-home-for-westside-works-opens-in-vine-city-featured_4X3JZXx.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"new-home-for-westside-works-opens-in-vine-city","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"cmRvkQ","created_at":"2017-12-21T15:35:32.320-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:35:32.320-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Quest Community Complex held its grand opening celebration on October 10, 2016.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eQuest Community Complex, a catalytic project that will have substantial impact toward creating successful outcomes for Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Westside, held its grand opening celebration on October 10, 2016. Invest Atlanta provided a $3.5 million grant for the project. As the new home to Westside Works, the contemporary 12,000 square-foot facility in Vine City will be a community resource, providing nearby residents with access to job training, economic development opportunities, and other resources.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWestside Works is a long-term neighborhood program with a mission focused on creating employment opportunities and job training for residents of Vine City, English Avenue, Castleberry Hill and other contiguous Westside neighborhoods. To date, Westside Works has placed about 350 people into full-time jobs earning an average of $12 an hour. They\u0026rsquo;re training hundreds more to work in the construction, technology, healthcare and food and beverage services industries.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSponsors for the Quest Community Complex include Invest Atlanta, PNC Bank, Atlanta Housing Authority, The Home Depot Foundation, and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.\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"}]}