The Atlanta Beltline has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to transform 13.7 acres at 356 University Avenue into a mixed-use and mixed-income development. The site is located in the historic Pittsburgh neighborhood along the Southside Trail, next to Pittsburgh Yards, which has become a hub for local entrepreneurs.

The Beltline is seeking an experienced developer that shares its vision of creating market-rate and affordable residential, commercial, and industrial spaces while incorporating greenspace and public art to foster economic equity and job growth. Since April 2024, the Beltline has engaged with nearly two dozen community groups through public meetings, advisory panels, and NPU sessions to ensure the development reflects the needs of the residents.

Based on this community feedback and a new master plan completed in July, the RFP emphasizes sustainability, equity, and long-term community benefits. Key requirements for proposals include:

• At least 30% of residential units must be permanently affordable (10% at or below 80% AMI, 20% at or below 50% AMI).

• A minimum of 30% of the total floor area must be dedicated to light industrial use.

• Affordable commercial space, with at least 20% at rents 30% below market for 10 or more years.

• A partnership with an arts, cultural, or community organization for on-site programming.

• Accessible green spaces, ADA pathways, and connectivity to the Beltline.

The preliminary concept plan for the site also includes multi-family housing with both market-rate and affordable units, as well as various commercial spaces for retail, office, and light industrial use. The guiding principles of the development are inclusive housing, economic opportunity, light industrial innovation, cultural/civic activation, connectivity & design, sustainability, and compatibility with the overall vision of Pittsburgh Yards.

Dennis Richards, Vice President of Housing Policy and Development at the Atlanta Beltline, stated that the 356 University site represents a commitment to equitable investment in communities that have long deserved it. He emphasized that every aspect of the development is being approached with deliberate intention to honor community voices and create affordable housing and commercial space that will lead to meaningful, enduring economic opportunities.

The 356 University site is part of the Beltline’s land acquisition strategy, which has acquired nearly 90 acres to date for residential and commercial affordability around the corridor. By controlling the land, the Beltline can act as a master planner, partnering with developers to create community-driven projects with long-term affordable housing, affordable retail, and sustainable land use to promote job and small business growth. Pre-development activities are also underway on other Beltline-owned sites, including 425 Chappell Road, 350 Chappell Road, Murphy Crossing, and 579 Garson Drive.

The future development is positioned to capitalize on growing momentum south of I-20, where approximately 20 development projects are in progress. The site's strategic location is further enhanced by the accelerated completion of Southside Trail Segments 2 and 3, which will create 17.9 miles of continuous trail by the first quarter of 2026, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Pittsburgh community has a rich history as a post-Civil War settlement of formerly enslaved people, with housing built around repair shops. Once a thriving hub of Black-owned businesses and churches, the area later faced decades of disinvestment due to redlining and economic decline. Today, as investment returns, the focus is on ensuring legacy residents can stay in their homes and benefit from new economic opportunities.

Kelvin Collins, Vice President of Economic Development at the Atlanta Beltline, noted that this is a chance to build on the legacy of Pittsburgh Yards by creating a place that reflects the values, culture, and aspirations of Southwest Atlanta. The goal is to foster a destination where residents and small businesses can thrive and where arts, commerce, and equity converge.

The Atlanta Beltline has established a stakeholder advisory committee of residents and local leaders to ensure the development aligns with the area’s needs and priorities. Interested parties can find the RFP documents and additional information on the Bonfire Procurement Portal and the Beltline's website.