Branch Properties today announces the acquisition of 4.4 acres to co-develop Summerhill Station, a Publix Super Markets-anchored shopping center in Summerhill on Atlanta’s Southside. Slated for delivery in early 2023, Branch purchased land for the 87,000-square-foot essential retail development from Carter, who is redeveloping the surrounding 19-block area into a bustling hub for retail, dining, housing and office, alongside Georgia State University’s athletic facilities.

Branch has already seen impressive leasing momentum at Summerhill Station, with a variety of users interested in joining the development. The center will feature a two-level parking deck, allowing for direct access to both levels of the retail buildings. The 50,000-square-foot grocery store will exhibit the traditional Publix layout, including a pharmacy and deli with indoor seating. The groundbreaking will take place before the end of 2021.

“We are thrilled to pass this milestone in our vision to bring the Summerhill neighborhood a much-needed, accessible retail destination with a quality grocery store option,” said Branch Chief Investment Officer Jesse Shannon. “Carter has continued to make significant investments in the community, and Branch is proud to be a partner in the ongoing story of the area.”

Adjacent to the future Publix shopping center lies the recently redeveloped Georgia Avenue, which features a stretch of restaurants, retail and service providers, such as Wood’s Chapel BBQ, Maepole, Little Tart Bakeshop and Big Softie. Along with the revitalized retail corridor, the entirety of the project includes a mix of multifamily and student housing options, townhomes from Hedgewood Homes and office space. 

“We are excited to partner with Branch to lead the development of the Publix center in Summerhill,” said Scott Taylor, president and CEO of Carter. “We believe their expertise and experience in building best-in-class retail centers will bring a development of the highest quality to the neighborhood.”

In addition to Summerhill Station, Branch is currently underway on five other grocery-anchored shopping centers around Metro Atlanta and the Southeast, including Perimeter Marketplace in Dunwoody, Ga.; Hugh Howell Marketplace in Tucker, Ga.; Moncks Corner Marketplace in Moncks Corner, SC; The Market at Hays Farm in Huntsville, Ala.; and Merganser Commons at Dogwood Estates in Milton, Fla.