The state is exploring expansion options at Centennial Olympic Park that could include a sizable subtraction, the AJC reports. The green space, one of the most transformative vestiges left over from the 1996 Olympics, has become a cultural hub in the heart of downtown. With the park playing host to more large events than ever before, and with the potential to generate increased revenue with a boost in acreage, the board that runs Centennial has expressed interest in the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce building on the western edge of the park. While the chamber says no formal talks have taken place — and that they have no intent to sell — sources close to the matter indicate they'd be open to discussions, given the civic nature of the proposal.
If the park were able to incorporate the acre of land the chamber building currently occupies, it would open more direct access and views from the park to the CNN Center, Omni Hotel, Georgia World Congress Center and College Football Hall of Fame. With the opening of the College Football Hall of Fame, more than a dozen attractions are now dotted around the park. And there's seemingly limitless potential, with developers chomping at the bit to develop the remaining lots around the area — Times Square South and a new hotel are just two. Regardless of whether more land is obtained, the state plans to hold more controlled-entry ticketed events after great successes in the past few years, including the trio of Outkast concerts this past summer and annual events such as 420 Fest and Party in the Park.
· Centennial Park sees green as music venue [AJC; subscriber]
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