The City of Atlanta and its economic-development agency, Invest Atlanta, are seeking a developer to build mixed-income housing and other amenities on a one-acre site near MARTA’s Garnett Station in South Downtown. 

A request for proposal seeks the development of at least 200 affordable and market-rate residences on the site, which is located at 184 Forsyth St. and comprises a 0.78-acre surface parking lot used by Department of Corrections employees and an underused, 0.23-acre pedestrian plaza.  

Besides affordable housing, the Garnett Transit Oriented Development RFP has three objectives: improved pedestrian connectivity between Forsyth Street, Broad Street Plaza and the Garnett Street MARTA station; new public space around the station that includes a mix of residential and commercial uses; and, overall, the creation of a sustainable, mixed-use environment that serves residents and the Downtown community.  

The RFP notes that the location is surrounded by several new and proposed development projects, including Centennial Yards, a Greyhound intercity bus station, a $20 million renovation of the MARTA station and 18- and 20-story residential towers on Broad Street, among others. 

“If we look at downtowns across the nation, many are experiencing a reawakening by building stronger, more resilient urban communities, and Atlanta is doing the same,” Invest Atlanta President and CEO Eloisa Klementich said in a press release. “This RFP is not only a good opportunity for increased affordable housing, but it will also support an equitable, vibrant and inclusive urban community that Atlantans deserve.” 

Overhead view of the one-acre parcel slated for development. Courtesy of Invest Atlanta.