Transit & Infrastructure
1 story
Decatur's Complete Streets Project Nearly Done After Decade Wait
West Howard Avenue's transformation from a high-speed drag strip into a people-friendly complete street is finally wrapping up. The project includes two-way cycle tracks with concrete barriers and new sidewalks stretching from Decatur High School to East Lake MARTA station. This has been in the works for nearly 10 years, so seeing it come together is pretty exciting for anyone who's had to navigate that corridor on foot or bike.
Development & Housing
2 stories
West End Townhomes Near BeltLine Start Taking Shape
Those 23 new townhomes coming to Hopkins Street in West End are finally rising from the ground. Ackerman & Co. (the same folks behind Lee + White) started this project a year ago, and now the first seven units are nearing completion. It's called GW Parkside now, and the first homes should hit the market this spring - a rare chance to actually buy (not rent) near the BeltLine in this area.
Food & Drink
3 stories
NYC Food Hall Legend Opens East Lake Spot in April
Robert Montwaid, the guy who created New York's famous Gansevoort Market, is opening his third Atlanta food hall concept at the new Vela Park development near East Lake Golf Club. Vela Park Food Works will feature six chef-driven concepts plus craft cocktails and outdoor dining. This is his first eastside location after success in other parts of town.
- San Francisco Coffee Opens Midtown Spot, Druid Hills Next Rough Draft Atlanta
- Not a Damn Chance Burger Coming to Summerhill What Now Atlanta
Arts & Culture
2 stories
Atlanta Film Festival Celebrates 50 Years with Legacy Screenings
The Atlanta Film Festival just announced its landmark 50th anniversary lineup, running April 23 through May 3 at Plaza and Tara Theatres. They're highlighting films that helped shape Atlanta's movie landscape, including appearances by director James Ponsoldt with "The Spectacular Now" and Julie Dash with "Daughters of the Dust." It's a celebration of how far Atlanta's film scene has come.
Public Safety
2 stories
Major Drug Operation Busted in Stone Mountain
Investigators seized 26 firearms and massive quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and meth in a Stone Mountain raid. This was described as a large drug operation, highlighting the ongoing battle against fentanyl distribution in metro Atlanta. The bust shows law enforcement is still working to disrupt these networks despite the broader challenges with the opioid crisis.
- Two Men Killed in Brookhaven Apartment Complex Shooting Fox 5 Atlanta
Politics & Policy
1 story
Georgia High Schools Get 'Bell to Bell' Phone Ban
The Georgia Senate unanimously passed a bill banning cell phone use in high schools from first bell to last bell, extending the current law that already covers elementary and middle schools. The bill now heads to Governor Kemp's desk for signature. Supporters point to data showing improved focus and mental health in districts that have already tried phone-free policies.
Community
1 story
World Cup Prep Displaces Black Residents Despite Climate Goals
A major investigation reveals how Atlanta's climate and flood control projects, designed to prepare for this summer's World Cup, are displacing longtime Black residents from neighborhoods like the Westside. The city is spending billions on new infrastructure and entertainment districts, but the benefits aren't reaching the communities most affected by the construction and displacement.