Hines, the international real estate firm, and Cousins Properties, the Atlanta-based REIT, announced that Crown Castle, the nation's largest provider of shared wireless infrastructure, has signed a 55,622 square-foot lease at 8000 Avalon, a 224,000 square foot Class A office development in Atlanta, GA.

"We are excited to have Crown Castle as a new customer at 8000 Avalon," said John Heagy, Senior Managing Director of Hines. "As consumer demand for data services continues to grow, Crown Castle is expanding its presence in Atlanta, and we are honored that they picked 8000 Avalon as their new home."

8000 Avalon is the only high-rise office building in Avalon, a leading mixed-use development in North Atlanta. Hines and Cousins entered into a joint venture to develop the $73 million project, which is currently under construction. With the addition of Crown Castle, 8000 Avalon is now 65% leased.

"Cousins and Hines are thrilled that Crown Castle has chosen 8000 Avalon as its next location in Atlanta," said Larry Gellerstedt, president and chief executive officer of Cousins. "Crown Castle, a leader in providing access to technology and information through its powerful wireless infrastructure, is a great addition to our high-quality roster of customers. We look forward to having Crown Castle join the Avalon community in November."

Crown Castle was represented in the lease negotiations by Russ Jobson and Bryce Metcalf of Colliers International.