The City of Atlanta announced the acquisition of the iconic Mall West End thanks to a partnership between Atlanta Urban Development and Atlanta Beltline, Inc. The 12-acre site, which has served as a cultural hub and shopping destination for the West End community for decades, will be redeveloped into a mixed-use project led by BRP Companies and The Prusik Group. This acquisition is the first step in the approximate $450 million redevelopment of the historic property into a mixed-income, mixed-use affordable housing development featuring an inclusive commercial space for a diverse business community—most importantly including legacy small businesses.

"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. “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."

The historic West End of Atlanta is a vibrant neighborhood steeped in history, known for its cultural richness and diversity. Once a hub for African American commerce and community, it boasts a legacy of resilience and creativity. The area's historic architecture, eclectic art scene and a variety of cultural events reflect its unique traditions and experiences that have been a vital part of Atlanta's identity.

“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 redevelopment of the Mall West End will be a multi-year process, with the project team actively engaging residents, legacy business owners, and other stakeholders to gather input and feedback. Construction on the Mall West End redevelopment is expected to begin in 2025, with phase one completion slated for 2026.

 The current plan includes:

• Approximately 125,000 square feet of retail, including a grocery store, fitness center, food & beverage, and local boutiques

• Approximately 900 mixed-income rental units, with 70% workforce housing, 20% affordable at 50% AMI, and 10% at 80% AMI

• A minimum of 10,00 square foot of affordable commercial space allocated for qualified small, local businesses

• Student-targeted housing

• A planned 150-key hotel

• A planned 12,000 square feet of medical office space

• Extensive community amenities such as activated street scape, fitness center, resident lounges, and bike parking

Funding includes a $5 million acquisition loan from Atlanta Urban Development, $5 million from Atlanta Beltline, Inc. (led by President and CEO Clyde Higgs) and $19 million in acquisition financing provided by Merchants Capital.

Along with the plan and in coordination with the Atlanta Beltline, the developer intends to establish a fund that will provide qualifying commercial tenants with rent credits and tenant improvement allowances. The developer has made an initial commitment to fund no less than $500,000 for this effort. This collaborative approach is designed to support local businesses and promote long-term success within the West End community.

Partners of the City of Atlanta in the Mall West End redevelopment include:

• Atlanta Urban Development Corp.

• Atlanta Beltline, Inc.

• BRP Companies (residential housing developer)

• The Prusik Group (commercial real estate developer)

"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."

"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."