Atlanta, Georgia – Officially acquiring the historic Mall West End in collaboration with Atlanta Beltline, Inc. and Atlanta Urban Development Corporation, the City of Atlanta marks a historic step that will transform one of the most culturally significant districts in Atlanta. A Beating heart of the West End community for a long time, the cherished 12-acre site is scheduled for a $450 million make-over, therefore ushering a new chapter for the mall and the surrounding area.
Renowned for its rich history and close ties to Atlanta’s African American past, the Mall West End has been an important hub for trade and culture in the West End area for decades. Now the mall will be turned into a lively mixed-use complex with the support of many development groups and city officials. This project seeks to preserve the tradition of small, local businesses serving the neighborhood for decades while offering much-needed affordable housing.
“This is a long-awaited new era for the West End. This is not just a redevelopment of the Mall West End—this is fulfilling a commitment to a community,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens in a news release. “Our Administration is dedicated to creating affordable housing and vibrant business spaces that respect and preserve the rich legacy of this historic neighborhood. Together with our partners, we will work to ensure the heart and soul of the West End continues to thrive under our stewardship.”
A new vision for the West End
Well-known for their expertise building mixed-use projects, BRP Companies and The Prusik Group will oversee the Mall West End renovation. The initiative will include a range of residential, business, and community-oriented venues. With a heavy emphasis on affordable housing, the site will have over 900 mixed-income rental units based on current designs. About 70% of the units will be workforce housing; 20% will be set aside for those earning 50% of the area median income (AMI), and 10% for those earning 80% AMI.
Apart from accommodation, the project would consist of around 125,000 square feet of retail area. From a grocery store and fitness center to neighborhood boutiques and food and drink alternatives, the concept covers everything to ensure that the development stays linked to the community it serves. With a minimum of 10,000 square feet set aside for affordable commercial space for small, local enterprises, the developers are focused on generating possibilities for legacy companies in the neighborhood.
“The acquisition of the Mall West End is a pivotal first step in the redevelopment of this iconic property, a significant moment for the West End community, but also an opportunity to create a more vibrant, connected, and equitable neighborhood,” said John Majors, CEO of the Atlanta Urban Development Corporation. “We are proud to partner with BRP Companies and The Prusik Group on this project and deliver a transformative development that will benefit the community for years to come.”
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Long-awaited progress
For many in the West End, this redevelopment has been years in the making. Representing the district, councilmember Jason Dozier underlined the significance of the project and the community’s will to see it through.
“This is the moment the West End community—and all of District 4—have been working towards for years. Thanks to the resilience of legacy residents, business owners and the surrounding communities; and the hard work of our office, Mayor Dickens and his team and so many other partners, we can preserve an authentic cultural experience for future generations of West End and Atlanta residents,” said Councilmember Jason Dozier, who represents District 4.
The first phase of the redevelopment is scheduled for completion by 2026, while it is expected to start in 2025. Seeking input from residents, business owners, and other local stakeholders, the team behind the project has promised to engage with the community throughout the process.
Preserving the soul of the West End
The project’s dedication to maintaining West End cultural identity is among its key elements. The area, known for its eclectic art scene, historic architecture, and strong sense of community, has long been a reflection of the resilience and creativity of Atlanta’s African American population. The new project seeks to respect its tradition instead of changing it.
“We are honored to partner with the City of Atlanta, AUD, Atlanta Beltline, Inc. and the West End community on this transformative project,” said Meredith Marshall, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of BRP Companies. “Our goal is to create a mixed-use destination that not only preserves the cultural identity of the West End but also provides much-needed affordable and workforce housing, along with new economic opportunities for residents.”
Plans for the property also call for communal conveniences including bike parking, resident lounges, a fitness center, and activated streetscapes meant to make the area more walkable and attractive. While a 12,000-square-foot medical office space will offer vital services for neighbors, a student-targeted housing component and a projected 150-room hotel will increase the appeal of the neighborhood.
A collaborative effort
The Mall West End’s renovation is evidence of the power of teamwork. A $5 million loan from Atlanta Urban Development Corporation, $5 million from Atlanta Beltline, Inc., and another $19 million in acquisition finance from Merchants Capital made funding for the purchase possible. Working with the Atlanta Beltline, the developers also intend to create a $500,000 fund to assist nearby businesses using rent credits and tenant improvement allowances, thus guaranteeing that these small businesses have a place in the rebuilt West End.
The first step toward what will be a transforming undertaking for this area is the purchase of the Mall West End. The intention is to establish a place where everyone may live, work, and relax while simultaneously safeguarding the distinctive West End legacy.
There is clearly excitement as the West End neighborhood looks ahead. The purchase of the Mall West End heralds the start of a new chapter for this ancient site one that promises to respect its past while creating a better, more inclusive future.
