In an announcement that could be the least shocking development news of 2015, Georgia State University and Carter have officially been named the future owners of Turner Field and the acres of parking surrounding the stadium. The development team was selected from three proposals — the other two were mildly dubious — submitted to the city last month, according to the AJC. Schematic plans released last year show a $300 million complex that will include an athletic village for the university and a massive mixed-use development to bring an array of housing, dormitory and retail space to the 67-acre site. While the proposal represents the biggest investment in the neighborhood since a sports legacy was foisted upon Summerhill, neighbors are still upset that the sale is going through without neighborhood input.
For many, news of redevelopment may seem like a blessing for downtrodden neighborhoods around the stadium, but for some the sale is a sore point. After all, the past 50 years have been no walk in the (ball-)park, with promised "redevelopment" initiatives bringing nothing but heartache — a la the 2015 Braves season. Nonetheless, the city has moved forward swiftly with the stadium and surrounding site's sale to avoid costly liability when the Braves vacate for Cobb at the end of the year, all the while requiring that any new owner seek neighborhood input.
The good news is GSU has done wonders in revitalizing downtown and will hopefully be able to continue that trend southward. With solid planning in place and good design, this could finally be a positive new chapter in the area's history.
· Turner Field to be sold to Georgia State and developer Carter [AJC]
· Turner Field Details Emerge From Georgia State & Others [Curbed Atlanta]
· Cue Speculation! Turner Field Sought by Mystery Bidders [Curbed Atlanta]
Loading comments...