A new megaproject hopes to bring new life to a former industrial site.

In a piece for Metropolis, Sam Lubell describes the latest ‘megaproject’ on Atlanta’s Beltline, a former rail corridor that Lubell calls “the most successful urban regenerator since New York’s High Line.”
The project, Fourth Ward, will be a mixed-use development with the now familiar mix of green spaces, community amenities, and a 2-acre lake and retention pond.
According to Lubell, “Fourth Ward’s biggest new addition is a 1.1 million-square-foot, 11-story commercial high rise designed by Seattle firm Olson Kundig. The sleek black, metal-edged edifice, containing retail at its base and several levels of sub-surface parking, is two bridged masses, separated by a wide swath of sloping greenery (a collaboration with Future Green.)” The building, which is aiming for LEED Gold certification, includes “intensive thermal and solar modeling” designed to cut energy use.
“Up next for Fourth Ward, in addition to Olson Kundig’s addition, are a collection of multifamily housing buildings by German architects Barkow Liebinger, sited on the development’s lower level. Per local inclusionary zoning rules, each will contain 10 percent affordable units,” as calculated based on Area Median Income (AMI).
FULL STORY: Behind the Latest Megaproject to Rise Along Atlanta’s Beltline

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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