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FY 2008 Livable Centers Initiative

Study Application

Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 Including the Ashby MARTA Station, and areas serving the Georgia Dome, the Georgia World Congress Center,

the Atlanta University Centre and Washington Park.

Sponsor: Contact:

City of Atlanta Flor Velarde,

City of Atlanta, Department of Planning & Community Development

404-330-673 1

Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 Application City of Atlanta

1. LC1 Application Form

Date: November 16,2007 '

Name of responsible organization: City of Atlanta, Department of Planning & Corgmunity Development

Name of contact person:

Title: Department:

Telephone: FAX: E-mail:

Flor Velarde

Assistant Director Bureau of Planning .

55 Trinity Avenue, S. W. Suite 3 350 Atlanta, GA 30303-03 1Q

Non-profit designation: Government Agency . .

Study area name and location: Vine City MARTA Station Afea LC1 Study, Atlanta GA

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Total study budget: Funds requestedi ' Cash Match:

Is the study proposal consistent with the adopted local Comprehensive Plan? Yes

Signature: *

Flor Velarde, Assistant Directar


2. Study Area The City of Atlanta's proposal for a Vine City MARXA.#&ticm : ~ & i z ~ e ~ m t e h hithive Study area eisompasses a9 sea af appximatdy 1/3 mile diameter around the Vine City MARTA transit station, dong witb an additi .4 mniM extending eastward, which m e e t the Vine,City MARTA station m a to the Ashby ~ ~ A R T A sfation area.

The study location is shown in Figun I. aad mC shdy we& 2io'un"w is shown in Figure 2. I 1x1 7 w l m - d q ~ art attach&. .'

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The dimemions of the study area are:

Length: 1.2 Miles, Washington (OIlie Di.) to Northside Drive Width: Betweea 0.3 rniIe'&dii,$ &lq la&sely defined as the area ck&d.w,Martin Luther Kmg Jr, B o u l d corridor on the South, aard extending between one to elght blocks to the n& Area: 239 Acres, or

The Study area includes: \

Vine City MARTA Transit Station; Ashby MARTA Transit Station; Moms Brown College Campus; Two regionally significant commercial corridors:

o Northside Drive; o Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive;

A large number of vacant, underutilized properties adjacent to the Ashby MARTA transit station; A developing commercial node adjacent to &e Ashby MARTA station.

The Sbdy Area is adjacent to:

East: Georgia Dane, ~eArgia ~ o z d conbe& Center, centennial Park, and the Proposed City Center LC1 area; South: Atlanta University Center, Atlanta Theological Seminary; West: Washington Park, AtIanta BeltLine; North: JSA-McGill LC1 Area, Vine City Neighborhood, English Avenue Neighborhood.


Figure 1: Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 Study Area Locator Map


3. Matching Funds

The following legislation was passed by the Atlanta City Council, Community Development/Human Resources Committee onL

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13,2007 and will be submitted to full Council on November 20, 2007:

A RESOLUTION BY COUNCILMEMBER IVORY YOUNG

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO APPLY FOR A LIVABLE CENTERS INITIATIVE (LCI) GRANT FROM THE ATLANTA REGIONAL COMMISSION (ARC) IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED ONE HUNDRED TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS AND NO CENTS ($120,000), IN ORDER TO CONDUCT AN LC1 STUDY FOR THE VINE CITY MARTA STATION ACTIVITY NODE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

WHEREAS, the City of Atlanta participates in the Livable Communities Initiative (LCI) program sponsored by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC; and

WHEREAS, the purpose of the LC1 program is to define activity centers and corridors in local jurisdictions to help spur private and public investment in and adjacent to this centeq ,sad

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WHEREAS, the City has received notification from the ARC that funds are available for new LC1 comdor studies; and e- ,

WHEREAS, the City desires to apply for a grant from the ARC , in the amount of One Hundred Twenty Thousand Dollars ($120,00) in order to conduct a LC1 stydy for the Vbe City MARTA Station Activity Center; and

WHEREAS, in the event that the City r&eives said b t , the kRC requires matching h d s in the amount of Twenty Four Thousand Dollars and No Cents ($24,000); and

WHEREAS, the Councilmember for District 3 has identified matching funds for this study .Ji and will be provided fiom the Quality of Life Bond Program

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ATLANTA, GEORGIA, as follows:

Section 1. That the Mayor is hereby authorized to apply for a Livable Centers Initiative (LC1 ) grant &om the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) in an amount not to exceed $120,000 for the Vine City MARTA Station activity node study.

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the LC1 will require matching b d s in the amount of Twenty Four Thousand Dollars and No Cents (24,000),


4. Issue Statement +-! ' -

The City of Atlanta is nominating the Vine City MARTA Station Area as a proposed Livable Centers Initiative Area because of the area's potential for transit-supportive redevelopment adjacent to the City Center, combined with its strategic location connecting multiple significant regional activity centers. The study area, while focused on the Vine City MARTA station, area will also include the Ashby MARTA station and portions of the Northside Drive and Martin Luther King JR Drive corridors to maximize linkages and relationships between multiple existing activity centers, neighborhoods, and parks while maximizing the potential for sustainable redevelopment of underutilized areas adjacent to existing transportation infrastructure.

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The Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 proposal is presents an ideal combination of assets, opportunities and conditions to support the LC1 program goals::

The Vine City and Ashby MARTA Transit Statidrfs are two of the few remaining MARTA rail stations in the Atlanta Metropolitan region without a recent redevelopment emphasizing sustainable mixed-use redevelopment adjacent to an existing high-capacity rail transit station. The neighborhood surrounding the Vine City MARTA Transit Station is characterized by high rates of vacant properties and buildings, and relatively low population densities. Vine City and Ashby MARTA Transit Stations have extremely low rates of ridership, (respectively ranking 31S' and 36" out of 38 Marta stations in terms of average station entries) despite the stations' central location immediately west of Five Points, the center of the MARTA system. This is especially significant in light the area's adjacency to major activity generators. The area's existing transportation idfastructure is extensive and is likely suitable to support increased development. With two existing MARTA Rail Stations, two state-classified arterials (Northside Drive and Martin Luther King Jr Drive) and convenient access to three Interstate Freeways ( Intertates 20, 75, and 85) within one mile. The Vine City MARTA Station Area is adjacent to the Georgia Dome and the Georgia World Congress Center, which, with Centennial Olympic Park, comprise one of the largest convention, sports, and entertainment complexes in the world, hosting more than a million visitors each year. This is great opportunity not only to improve the Vine City Neighborhood, but also actively foster and develop a positive image of the City of Atlanta to over one million international visitors. The Vine City MARTA Station Area encompasses the proposed alignment the multi-use West Side Trail which forms a vital spoke of the City's greenspace and trail plan, linking the City Center and other downtown activity nodes to the proposed BeltLine Transit and recreational system at Washington park. The Vine City MARTA Station Area is immediately adjacent to the Atlanta University Center, the world's largest consortium of predominantly African-American higher education institutions. Redevelopment in the Vine City MARTA Station Area would provide access to


transit, housing, shopping, and services to the over 12,000 students, faculty and staff of the Atlanta University Center. The Vine City MARTA station is adjacent to the Herndon Home, one of the City's most significant cultural, historical and architectural resources, which is currently underutilized. The proposed study area includes Morris Brown College campus, which is currently evaluating opportunities to redevelop significant portions of its campus. The Study Area encompasses two regionally significant commercial corridors which have been identified as the targets of mixed-use redevelopment in recent plans. LC1 designation will facilitate implementation of those recommendations. The Vine City MARTA Station Area is likely to experience increased development pressure over the next decade, as several recently completed major development projects, such as those along the Marietta Street Corridor and Ivan Allen Plaza indicate. High density development has been moving west and south from Atlanta's core in recent years. Recent proposals for redevelopment in Castleberry Hill, Peachtree Bottoms Atlanta's "Railroad District" and the "Gulch" (the site of the proposed Multi-Modal Passenger Terminal) suggest that Vine City itself will soon begin to feel redevelopment pressures. Now is the optimum time to create a plan to proactively address these pressures to ensure that development is consistent with regional goals.

Study Purpose The Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 Study will formulate strategies to develop this activity node to create an urban scale, mixed-use node that exemplifies pedestrian-friendly design, provides multi- modal transportation choices and a creates an efficient regional east-west connection linking the City Center to activity centers such as the BeltLine, Washington Park, the recently redeveloped Historic WestSide Village, and the Atlanta University Center. The strategies would assist surrounding neighborhoods and employment centers with streetscape improvements and increased connectivity, while leveraging the area's relationship with the Georgia Dome 1 GWCC sports, convention & entertainment complex to create an integrated, sustainable, and vibrant 24 hour community.

Desired Outcomes There are several primary outcomes that are expected of this study: , I,.

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Increased utilization of the existing rail transit infrastructure. A plan that will actualize the transit area's potential regional impact by focusing growth within the transit area and utilizing the existing transit infrastructure. A strategy of phased development to ensure that the transit area (and surrounding communities) has an efficient balance of residential, retail, office, industrial, civic and recreational uses. A development plan supported by reliable market information that will provide a wide variety of appropriate types of housing and range of affordability while respecting existing single- family neighborhoods. A plan for increasing multi-modal connectivity among all parts of the study area and for all residents, employees, and visitors - particularly for providing east-west access across the existing CSX rail corridor and thereby making rail transit directly accessible to the major employment center in the northeast quadrant of the study area. - 5 - 4::

A plan to address multi-modal connectivity to other activity centers and corridors. Increased and renewed coordination between institutions and originations with a stake in the community


Proposals to increase the level of safety and efficiency of the existing transit area - particularly addressing the dangerous conditions existing along Northside Drive in the immediate vicinity of the transit station. Plans and policies coordinated with ongoing Beltline planning and development activities. A knowledgeable and empowered community that will assist in ensuring that development goals are realized.

Advancement of LC1 program Goals Goal 1 Encourage a diversity of residential neighborhoods, employment, shopping, and recreation

choices at the activity center and town center level. Housing should be given strong focus to create mixed-income neighborhoods that support the concept of "aging in place. "

The purpose of this proposed LC1 study is to create an activity center in the area of the Vine City MARTA Station, along with connections to the Ashby Marta Station and Washington Park to the west, and the Georgia Dome, GWCC, Downtown core to the east. As part of this effort, it will be imperative to preserve and improve the area as mixed socio-economic residential communities while promoting higher-density mixed-use along arterials and adjacent to the Transit Centers. In addition, there must be a focus on encouraging the development of businesses and appropriate industries adjacent to the residential areas.

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Goal 2. Provide access to a range of travel modes including transit, roadways, walking and biking to enable access to all uses within the study area.

The study will have a primary goal of increasing utilization of the Vine City and Ashby MARTA Stations - thereby greatly increasing the option of rail transit. Increased rail usage will also increase the opportunities to use and expand the bus service fkom this station.

The Special Public Interest Zoning categories already implemented in this area incorporate requirements for the private sector to invest in pedestrian amenities. Increased land use density around the transit facility will support transit ridership by increasing the number of destinations within a walking range. Opportunities to create linkages to a new network of crossings across the rail facilities separating Vine City from Downtown Atlanta will be explored, increasing pedestrian and bike access between the central business district and residential areas and activity centers to the west. A proposed West-Side Multi-Use Trail, which is already partially implemented, is planned to connect Washington Park and the BeltLine to Central Atlanta. The proposed alignment of this trail coincides with the spine of the proposed Vine City MARTA LC1 study area.

Goal 3. Develop an outreach process that promotes the involvement of all stakeholders.

The Department of Planning and Community Development will use a comprehensive public involvement process that has the City's Neighborhood Planning Units (NPUs) as the primary building block for community participation. The public involvement process will ensure maximum participation of public and private parties in the development of the plan.

Selection Criteria The Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 meets all the priority consideration criteria identified by ARC:


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5. Regional Significance The Vine City MARTA Station Area has the potential to significantly impact the Atlanta region in many ways:

It capitalizes on two existing primary transit co and other regional destinations; - . It has the potential to significady rsthe, tm@c comdors of regional significance; It represents a significant opportu&y to arcs: growth in population and employrmag * ' .

It is ideally situated fq e W c p Atlanta's and welcoming urban ,@y by 'i~vera~ing adjacent Georgia Dome, Georgia World complex and its over one million annual visit&; - - It has great potential to address a multitude of regional problems by exemplifling effective Transit-Oriented Development solutions on the local level;

Atlanta Region Unified Growth Policy Map . 2.

The ARC's Atlanta Region Unified MARTA Station Area LC1 study regional policy supporting higherdens areas arterials, Northside Drive -

Strategic Facilities".

Congestion Mitigation Initiatives and projects which inkfwse usage of the Wid .Ci~"'hd' A&& Tmh& -k&f~,risl and contribute to improved pedestrian and bicycle connections between the City Center and the Westside will play a significant role in congestion mitigation in the Atlanta Metropolitan Region ' ! ' '). '

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Atlanta Region Bicycle Transportation and pedestrian walkways Plan The ARC's 2007 Atlanta Region Biqd$: Transportation and Pedestrian Walkways Plan recommends implementation of the West Side Multi-use Path. This proposed alignment of this path forms the spine of the Vine City MARTA Station Area, as a key element of a Regional Bicycle Network, linking the proposed BeltLine trail with the City Center.

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Demographics The study area is home to an economically disadvantaged p p u l a t i ~ incomes well below those for the region. The proximity to emplo opportunity for many such work. All portions of the study anxi meet the ARC'S criteria as Environmental J u & b . .

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Household Income. The Median Household Income in the Vine City area is significantly lower than citywide averages. In addition, the percentage of households receiving public assistance is as much as eight times the regional average.

Population and Employment Growth City of Atlanta population forecasts call for a 62 percent population increase and a 30 percent household increase between 2000 and 2030 for the study area. In order for the area to accommodate such growth while preserving the lower density character of the adjacent neighborhoods, redevelopment must place a priority on increased housing and employment intensity at the transit center node.

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The Regional Impacts of Transit-Oriented Development The Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 study will provide the opportunity to place new, higher density development where it belongs: in the city core atop existing and underutilized high-density transit facilities. Vine City is an important regional transit area that will not only accommodate forecasted population and employment growth, but also will focus new development in a location where infkastructure is already in place.

Vine City MARTA Station Area Median Household Income-2000

Better Use of Existing Infrastructure. This study is an opportunity to invest in the Vine City and Ashby MARTA Transit station areas where underutilized infrastructure exists. Providing housing along the two arterial corridors will provide additional mixed income housing opportunities near downtown job centers that will provide more choices for those who work downtown to live closer to their jobs and reduce the demand in areas of the region where the infrastructure is not in place.

Census Tract 24 25 26 Citywide

Enhance the City Center. Atlanta will contkte to crkat; jobs in the central employment centers. The development of the Vine City MARTA Station Area activity node will provide an additional location for employment while at the same time providing new workers who want to enjoy an urban lifestyle with expanded options on the west side. Providing new housing near the Midtown and Downtown employment centers will enhance the urban core by adding a more round-the-clock population that will provide the market for more entertainment, cultural events, dining and recreational activities in the city center.

$ 22,113 $ 16,949 $ 21,538 $ 34,770

Mixed-income housing. Increased life-cycle and mixed income housing at the Vine City MARTA Station Area near the urban core employment centers make living near work more affordable. The area should introduce new mixed income housing that will bring new residents of a variety of economic levels to the area while supporting expanded commercial and entertainment.

Source: U.S. Census, 2000

Bicycle and pedestrian-friendly environment. The activity center will include infrastructure enhancements that will make walking and biking a safer and more attractive transportation choice. This in turn will place many services within walking distance of both new residents on the corridor and those who live in existing homes located adjacent to the study area.


Effective public transit. Increased mixed use activity near existing transit stations will increase ridership or public transit and more efficiently utilize the great investment the community has made in its transportation i&astructure. A safe and attractive bike and pedestrian environment will encourage biking and walking to the transit station.

Trip Reduction Mixed-use activity nodes, development with a bicycle and pedestrian friendly environment and transit supportive land use will encourage more people to make alternative transportation choices and lead to fewer automobiles on the road. Activity nodes will provide new locations for employment within walking distance of a variety of housing types with a wide range of price points. The new housing opportunities along the corridor will provide additional options for downtown and midtown workers who currently drive to far-flung suburbs for affordable housing. With fewer cars on the road, the region will see fewer miles traveled overall.

Fewer hours driving means more time for family and community. By providing jobs closer to home those who live in the study area will have the advantage of spending less time driving and therefore have more time to participate in community activities and spend time with family and friends.

Improved Air Quality. Pedestrian and Transit-friendly, mixed-use development and redevelopment in the study area will reduce the demand for the continuing development of non-sustainable, automobile-oriented communities. Development that reduces the dependence on automobiles and offers transportation choices contributes to better air quality for the.

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Support for Regional Development Plan Policies The Vine City MARTA Station Area LC1 will help implement the policies of the ARC'S regional Development Plan by planning for a portion of the population and employment growth in a medium- to-high density activity nodeltransit area located at the intersection of two major arterial streets. Encouragement of mixed-use development will let mutually-compatible uses locate closer together. This will decrease mean travel distances and providing for the implementation of best development practices.

The public involvement process for the plan development will make extensive use of the community networks that were developed during previous planning processes while creating new synergies with Atlanta's sports, entertainment, convention and tourism community. It will include working with the NPUs, neighborhood organizations, and identified community leaders in the study area.

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Support for Regional Transportation Plan Goals The plan's focus on providing transportation choices and enhancing the'east-west cokection will improve accessibility and mobility for people and goods and improve system performance and preservation. The plan will support policies that will improve the environment and the quality of life by reducing the regional demand for automobile travel and creating mixed-use nodes that are within walking distance of residents and relieve the pressure for greenfield development in other parts of the region.


6. SCOPE OF WORK Vine City Station Area LC1 Study Scope of Work 1.1 Preparation

Analyze all current and previous planning efforts. Examine historic and futyre population trends in the study area including income, ethnicity, and housing tenure. ,, Analyze the impact of current government policies, and projects Analyze current and proposed major public and private developments and buildings

1.2 Land Use Analyze existing land uses in the study area and surroundings, including development characteristics and patterns. Determine vacant and underdeveloped land. Determine appropriate land use mix for area. Recommend regulations necessary to achieve proposed development, including future land use and zoning, and site development criteria.

1.3 Transportation and Circulation Analyze existing conditions and transportation patterns in study area and surroundings, including an examination of development trends along other comparable corridors in the region. Establish relationship of existing network of local streets in study are; and d e t e r h e need for development of network of minor roads Assess existing and proposed roadway capacity in surrounding area based on new development concepts Study connectivity of transportation system to other centers Analyze interfaces among rail, bus, pedestrian and vehicular transportation systems Establish recommendations for traffic calming and improvements in pedestrian circulation, transit circulation, and bicycle circulation including safety and security of pedestrians Establish transportation demand reduction measures Establish need for and identdy future transit circulation systems and line haul routes

1.4 Economic and Market Analysis Conduct site and area analysis Conduct a demand and supply analysis for the subject area for residential, commercial, and industrial development Conduct a strength/weakness analysis for the subject area to aid in determining the potential positioning of the various uses in the area relative to other competitors in the market Prepare recommendations including the level of market opportunity by land use and product type, the supportable square feet for commercial, retail and industrial space and the population needed to support it Determine economic development opportunities

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1.5 Urban Design Encourage the creation of a pedestrian environment, where residents and workers feel a natural inclination to explore the area's mixed-use attractions. Conduct a design charrette/workshop. Provide a graphic analysis showing all major utilities and how they relate to future street improvements. Prepare master conceptual plan of streets and block layout, street sections, bike and pedestrian path sections. Create urban design standards and guidelines. Design standards should address open space, streets, streetscapes, landscaping, and architectural design Illustrate the development


potential, design character and urban design vision through presentation of site plans and sketch renderings including context plans, a rendered master site plan, and sketch renderings.

1.6 Housing Determine demand for affordable single-family, multi-family, and other types of housing in the study area Recommend new incentives to promote mixed-income development in the study area Establish relationship and balance between mixed-income and development centers

1.7 Public Involvement Prepare Public Involvement Plan, indicating the goals, timeframe, and appropriate public involvement technique(s) to achieve each goal within the required timeframe. Conduct stakeholders interviews Set-up the community input process, including mailings Conduct workshops/design charrette Conduct necessary public forums, presentations, hearings and town hall meetings Conduct visual preference survey and analysis Write summary document addressing the public involvement process

2. DELIVERABLES Efficiency/feasibility of land uses and mix appropriate for future growth including new and/or revised land use regulations needed to complete the development program Transportation demand reduction measures 1ntemal mobility requirements, including traffic calming, pedestrian circulation, transit circulation, bicycle circulation, safety and security of pedestrians Mixed-income housing, job/housing match and social issues Continuity of local streets in study area and development of a network of minor roads. Need/identification of future transit circulation systems and freight routes. Connectivity of transportation to other centers Center development organization and management, promotion an economic restructuring Identification of stakeholder participation and support Public and private investment policy Identification of potential local, state and federal programs and projects, and potential non- profit participation Recommendation of City policies for investment Recommendation of strategy for economic investment in the area

2.1 Summary Document A description of the study process and methodology, data gathering techniques and findings, and general study outcomes A description of the public participation process used to achieve a community-supported program of activity center improvements A description demonstrating how the study addressed each of the required LC1 study comuonents A five (5) year schedule of actions that are planned in the study area to implement the study goals, programs and projects.

t A population and employment data section containing, at a minimum, current and 25 year projection figures


7. Budget

Vine City Station Area LC1 Study Budget

Data Collecticy and Mil& - . - _ _ _ - _ _ a ........... -_i-- .--.-. _-.d_L-_I. _-_i___ .-.- - .I.... --.. ~ h h + m ~ 5 ~ 0 ~ I

. % 3&zbcmI s5'aK,pm] L, L - - - - - . - - . .

I Funding Plan . _&_. . . A - ' . rf_.___. , , ..._....... _ _ _ _ _ . ....... .

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8. Schedule Include a schedule for study development and completion. The anticipated execution of contracts with successful applicants will occur in April 2008. All studies must be complete by December 19,2008. (1 page maximum)

Vine City Station Area LC1 Studv Prmosed Schedule I I J J L

MarchM08

Assemble Core Team t - - - - - - - - - *

41 aa)8

I Project Award - - - - +

Assemble Steering Committee . A

s A -

( Identify C d t y Stakeholders . .. .. - - , - . . - - * Issue Request for Proposals - - .- - - I

I Select Project Team Co&t , -

Mgrm No& Communitg Stakeholders

I Begin Inventory and Assessment -. - - --. -- --- - - +

Conduet Stakeholder Interviews (On-Going)

June= -. . . ," - .* - - -

Complete All E&& C~ndrtims ASS&;

I Public Kick-Off Meeting

1 ~ 4 ~ 2 6 0 8 I Public Workshop

I AusuIcm Prepare Desrgn Recommendatiom

I Public Prtsentltion of Draft Recommendations . - % .

Confirm Dwciopment Strategies - - I

I Create Implementation Ma& . . *. ---- ---.- - - -

Confirm Recommended Policy Changes I

I Present F d Plan-Public

Nov* ZOOS

%bmit Report and Suppamg Da-bn to A w

1 Meet withARCandGDOT , . Revise Final Plan

Octoba:20C)8 . .


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9. Stakeholders

Vine City MARTA Station Area LCI: Potential Stakeholders

Councilman Ivory Young, Atlanta City Council District 3 MARTA GDOT NPU L NPU K Washington Park Neighborhood Ashview Heights Vine City Civic Association Georgia Dome Georgia World Congress Center Atlanta University Center Morris Brown ~diia;iuj 1 . -., - -.<-.- ---.. --....-.. -.* - - -- .-. Tyler Place Community Development Corporation

- 3 .,if irq Public Participation:

Public involvement and community outreach will be ongoing throughout the prwess.

Tasks Include:

Establish an advisory committee Conduct stakeholders interviews Set up the community input process -Website -Email Public workshops Design Charrette Public forums -Presentations -Hearings ---- - . - ,- - - -- - Visual preference survey Prepare mass mailing advertizing meetings Prepare a poster to be placed in strategic locations


10 Commitment and Ability to Implement . .

; J > : ": The City of Atlanta is committed to encouraging a range of smart growth development typ&, such as in-fill, mixed-use, pedestrian and transit-oriented projects, and mixed-income communities and dl provide matching funds to study these possibilities and make policy changes. The 4~ of Smmt Grwth in the AtIanta Regian, published by the Atlanta Regional Commission and the Regional Business Caafitl6n fn Atrgtist 2004 gave the City of Atlanta the highest score among all jWtsdictions in the region - 93 out of 100 - in Smart Growth implementation capability. The City of Atlanta has a combination of existing high-volume transit capability, zoning codes that require connectivity and multi-modal transportation options, tools to support mixed-income and full-Mecycle housing, and the capability to provide trrUE. medium and high-density development. With these implementation tools, the City of Atlanta can w i d e an unparalleled environment to implemenit Wvsble Centers Initiative plans. . ,

Since the inception ob fbe ;the City ioriginal or grandfawed ded $28

Land Use and Zoning The Vine & ~edevelo~ment Plan is which was widely supported by She community and subs Comprehensive Development plan,, The focus was mainly on result of the 2004 Vine City Redevelopment Plan the City a changes were adopted that year. A number of key parcels to either medium density residential or mixed use. Prior to designations in this area. The existing SPI-11 District establisbd-in 2@?S step in the right direction but more focus needs to be placed onfbe.$fs& the existing MARTA Stations, especially Vine City on a regbraal iwd $BB'W k9L

Recent Plans: ', rd z, ; .+ , -r . . i . . . / , = f~ '

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Several recent studies by the City of Atlanta ,&bit gimilar policies and goals thawill help support and strengthen the desired devel .@one have focused on the potential of the Vine City and Ashby MARTA Station for higher densities, connectivity and "aging in place" housing options. This study will combine the recommendations from recent plans to create a cohesive regionally significant plan which will analyze the specific impact of the effective use of the established MARTA Stations, underutilized infrastructure and vacant and abandoned properties. Here is a list of the recent studies in the area:

Vine City Redevelopment Plan: 2004 . . Northside Drive Corridor Study: 2004

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MLK Corridor Study: 2005 Northside Drive Corridor Study: ,2m ,

Simpson Road Corridor Study:, aXbQ5 English Avenue Redevelopment Blm: 2005 Imagine Downtown Planning Study: 2005 JSA-McGill LCI: 2003 BeltLine Redevelopment Plan: 2005


Current Plans a

Atlanta Strategic Action Plan (ASAP): The Atlanta Strategic Action Plan (ASAP) is the new 2007 - 2032 Comprehensive Planning Document for the City of Atlanta. Atlanta's Strategic Action Plan is the document that will reflect: your city, your vision, your plan. The partial update is underway and should be approved by early 2008.

Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP): The Bureau of Planning is engaged in a yearlong planning process to develop the first Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP) for the City of Atlanta. The CTP will guide the next 25 years of transportation policy and investment in ways that advance Atlanta's larger vision of creating a more modern, vibrant and sustainable city. The key challenge for the CTP and Atlanta, the central city in one of the largest and fastest growing regions in the country, is developing a balanced transportation network that expands choice of movement in the Atlanta, fuels growth and creates a more livable City.

BeltLine Sub-Area Master Planning: Through mid-2008, Atlanta BeltLine, Inc is master planning the entire 22-mile BeltLine loop. While several BeltLine-wide studies and plans have been prepared, the master plans go into greater detail while building on and validating previous efforts and recommendations. To achieve the necessary level of detail, the BeltLine was divided into ten subareas. Five of the subarea plans began in July 2007 and five more will begin near the end of 2007. Once the subarea plans are complete, each will be a stand alone document, but they will all fit together seamlessly as one master plan for the entire Beltline.

Project Greenspace: Project Greenspace is a long-term plan for growing and managing Atlanta's greenspace system. To accomplish Project Greenspace, we need the help of communities, civic organizations, and the private sector to create a vision and framework for a world-class system that connects people with great public spaces, nature preserves, parks, plazas, and streetscapes.

Planned & Programmed Projects Westside TAD: The Westside Tax Allocation District was expanded in 1998 in order to support efforts that are currently underway to remove blighted conditions and expand redevelopment efforts to adjacent residential areas of Vine City and English Avenue. The TAD also seeks to capitalize on the opportunity to revitalize the land surrounding the new Centennial Olympic Park and foster the development of connections between the Central Business District, Clark Atlanta University Center, the Georgia Tech Campus, and adjoining neighborhoods by promoting improved transportation corridors, safer streets, streetscaping for pedestrians, and greenway trails.

The TAD will facilitate the development of infill projects to eliminate the development gaps which exists because of inadequate and aging sewers, property acquisition and assemblage costs, and perceived environmental contamination. Through the development of linkages, infrastructure, and i~~fill development this TAD encourages and supports new and existing businesses, new and renovated housing, and the support services that will help build a sustainable community. In 2006 $500,000 was allocated for the removal of 30 homes within the English Avenue and Vine City Neighborhoods fiom the Westside Tax Allocation District 1.


11. Appendices


Appendix 1: Study Area Photos


Appendix 2: Letter of Support: Council Member Ivory Lee Young

A T L A N ~ A CITY COUNCIL

--, l3btor A b t a Regknrrl Commission 40 Courtbnd Sbact, NE A- GA 30303

I wadd 131ur to offer this ietteF af support cand endotsem@ea;aFd Ancantir's propotol lo th 'ptbnb Regional Commission (ARC) 4gg 5C) designaCiorl a# Int Vkn Cliy IYA#tA St.d)on Arw, which is locaW? in my,flietrkb .. ., ,

. r;, 3 <

with easy r c x s s to Inkmta&s 20,75 nnd 85, the W o n is rips fa the type of intrmsive, mixed-ussr

WlyisthaAJhby w h ' i h a s ~ c b d s w n t ~ v e g r o w f h . r&!ararmvm s u c h ~ l ~ h a r : d r t ~ D o a r e , t h e G s a a g i a W o r l d ~ C a a t a r p m l C c n t a n n W Olympic Pa& whiih oollectiwrly haat mom draa bnt the a m mvta the Adong University Ch&?,,,+ n#rstd'r,, Arnaicgahightraducationhrstiattioar. ,?..

Afkiun-

' i k ? - - 3 >*-

~ ~ d * & b ; b - ~ L u . ~ k k An LCI sblgr would allow thc emamunities %o plan for in~naMxt d v i t y , whish would prcrvidrr thcbforinrmrseduotofrttornatemodesd~iAGLudlagwriiriniqMdbicyothy. 1Bb d d also inarae kcal socass to the 00mrnuRi~'s existing wse&, sucb as Wadhgm Puk and Vim City Fa&, load shoo4 and exi- anplayma appmmith. Long shunned by ttwr develapmau ammm*, this area Atlanta will 1iWy sec dsvskrpnont prtraura - Hi Li the right time pba for tb fiYtrrt.B Mitical -it #,(,&,. ' + Y ',- 3's ' -. . i-1, r , ' . '-?'a1 .,

. -- i' .**a d.. - .

srpliclfoQ hr t8c V3m C&y MARTA Statian Area LX=I. Y


Appendix 3: Letter of Sugpprt, Steven R Cover, City of Atlanta

=, C... i ! C_ t Y.

,I m-FRANKLIN -% MAYOR

C I T Y O F - A T L A N T A DEPARTMENT OF P M M G AND COWUNITY DEVELOPMENT I Trlnltv A- SW. SUITE 5350 - A M A QEORQIA 3o

Charles KrauUer, Executive Director Atlanta Regional Commission 40 Courtland Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30303

Dear Mr. Krautler:

r Thii letter is to f o m M l ) y C e % $ H m r ~ p o r t of the Dqmlment of Planning and Community ~Qevelopment for the potential Livable Centers Initiative study tor which the Ci of Atlanta is

applying. The Vine City MARTA Station Area serves regional and Citywide interests and has been identified as the area of the City that can most benefit from LC1 de?ignation, but could also

., strongly contribute to the goals of the LC1 program. L I+ .

, The Vine City MARTA Station Area represents a great opportunity to encourage transit-oriented ,development to better take advantage of the existing rail transit investment in this community.

* , L Surrounded by a large number of vacant, dilapidated and underutilized properties, and strategically located along both Northside Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, two state classified arterials, with easy access to Interstates 20,75 and 85, the location is ripe for the type 'of intensive, mixed-use development that the LC1 program, and the City of Atlanta, would like to

a -see. Also included in the study is the Ashby MARTA Station which has experienced some positiwe growth. The area serves such regional destination as the Georgia Dome, the Georgia

." ;?World Congress Center and Centennial Olympic Park which collectively host more than one million visitors each year. In addition, the area serves the Atlanta University Center, the world's largest consortium of predominantly African-American higher education institutions. Long shunned by the development community, this area Atlanta will likely see development pressure - makin0 thistbarQbt time to plan for the future urowth of this critical transit node.

*" ,.. . - . ' . In canclusion, t belleve that ttfe City of Manta has an unmatched aMty to execute LCf program , The City of Atlanta has a combintion of existing high-volume transit capability, zoning

codes that require connectivity and multi-modal transportation options, tools to support mixed- .. income and full-lifecycle housing, and the capability to provide true medium and high density development. With these implementation tools, the Ci of Atlanta can provide an unparalleled e n v i r o n m e n t e s e the potential of the Livable Centers Initiative program.


Appendix 4: Letter of Support, MARTA

M c h . l r l i b . A - ~ . p ~ l ~ u r d t ~ d e o r l t y

Re: Vine Citv Station LCI .

mars-

On behalf of MARTA, I support the City of Mlrmta's eppktkm br Livsbk Ccatar? - inirbthre (LC0 f i d h g to dudy and pfrn 66r the a m stasno- tb Vibe City MART&-r Station. The V h City Stgion aaa qwcaats a gma * toarcaunrgcw 0-rd d a c l a m t o tJoldnrdlsofmcoad*q=mm-q.- * L .

W i t b r w m r b c r o f v r r ; s m o r ~ . . pPopatiea in tbe iomedietc stdion area, tbir ararLt+&rttrstyprrd&sd--&tb6LCfprrrtprpn,dtheCityof Atbuca,woold~otorae. T b C a c c r r w c v a r s r a c h ~ ~ ~ t h s O a o r g i a "

fbm, the Osorgia World Co9gnsa Cat-, d the Athnlt U n i v w Cantar. ' Owrbokdbymmrrlcatatcdcnbpnmihrpa,ib.VhrCityra~raof )_.

& o a m t o w n A t L a t a i o ~ a g t o ~ i n c r s r s d d ~ ~ v % u w h to ,A , pha & lplowth wund ib' MARTA mmsit S t a h . - A. * F X '. .T L

As p u know, MARTA actively amwages transit o d u d Amd its statiolls. A n L C I h d y w w l d b e o f g r e a t ~ ~ ~ 0 e i n p I r m ' ~ f w t b t ~ C d devcbpmm of tk Vine Cay stahidn ama. MARTA n gtd to support the City of AtbWs eppliakm to the Atbnta Regional (hnmissioa &r Livable Ceatm Initiative hdiq bt the V b City arm

V Ryland N. Mcclcndw Assistant Ga#rl Manag= of Pbnhtg


Appendix 5: Letter of Support, NPU- L

CMes Krwtb, IWmuive Dir#aM A~RegionrlCanrairdm 4Oc4utl.ndStmet,NE Admtr,Chgh30303 , - . l . . r 1

,. ,. . Ika Mr. Kmm; . ' , , 3 " . I

,, ' ' a = 7s- 4 7 . 7: '

A s c b a o l ~ ~ ~ . ~ ~ ~ t b c ~ t y o f ~ t * . l k i t s d l o l t l i a ~ ~ - C a * r n ~ d b d v e ~ c t r ; s y y t r t t n a E o r , ~ ~ ~ Q ~ ~ ~ S a a t i P a A r # S n d y f t o m d r , ~ b E l o ~ a a s l C a n M l i + - $ion. .'kt .,, ;:?-,&. .

m~rmie&$Wti;q&~ area +nts 1 majtig.. . tbr&Lke IL k h ~ ~ b d i e f t h a t t b d i i d m o d b u s ~ will aar$w* this N y . Tho tCI ddgmiaa will d r ow annmtlnity in if's ndcvlclopmrnt effmts . It is impaatiw Ibm fbt At- l n t r R ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ a a k a e e W r r w r t c p l u s d ~ t & U T ~ ~ t f w C i t y d M ~ f o r c&: v h % vg$Ap* r ; + i J Arar , 8 WY. ? y 6

d

Be the Change You are Loom For! - _ *a .4 -

Restoring Unity im Community with Positive Pmactfvt Action


Appendix 6: Letter of Support, University Commons Development Corporation , ,*

Untvarrity Community DoWopmnt Corporatian k

Dar Mr. KmutkK

A ~ U ~ ~ C w t e r ( A U ~ t b r t P g c d a m S 0 r t i ~ o f ~ c a l l y B l r c L ~ *

aodUnivcnritkss(HBCU) in tbwncld,isr majorecoacKlric $encratw for* WesgiQ ~ c a d i r a i a S e @ p l l ~ d t b e ~ Q r s a w h o k . O n b d w l l o f t b t A U C , , . ( m~thcCitydAU~LDi(saffratrlio~LivrbleCarslrWvc(LQ) d c r i O l r p r i o n f a d r t V i n e C i t y M A R T ~ S ~ ~ r e r ~ f i o m t & ~ t k n t l ~ c-. , . -

The Vine Ciq MARTA Statiaa ata rrpeaats a major ogpommity for IN&~-& ~ ~ ~ t i s o u ~ f t h s t t h e & t s M d b u r ' ~ ~ ~ W i l f ~ J I b e s l e W f r r r r a rhir rhrdy. RGaliziqg that the m U a a y is pogmsiq in a positiw numa, it L - ~~ttbJ(btAtlmtlrRegioaalCda0aeaabraeethis~nceptaadlpmtrhtLCE darioroQoseo*~af a P r r a e V i a c c 3 t r W W ~ ~ .


Appendix 7: Letter of Suppoe, Morris Brown College

r

643 M n Luthw Kia Jr., Drlvo. N,W, #lanur, GWQ& 30314

MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE OmoeottbcPrwidcat

r . . .- , - . . ,.

rdslfii-'-M*& .&& Ool,e&,$& * Livable Centers Initiative (LCD designation for the Vine $he Atlanur Regional Comissiom . . .

b e City MARTA Stetioa Ann W y .

Stanley I. Prhhc& Sr. E&D. PZGBidCDR

W ~ C City MARTA Station Area LC1 Application City of Atlanta

Appendix 8: Supporting Comprehensive Plan Policies:

The following policies are from the Transportation Eleme*' &the (39% . ive Development Plan

1. Support pedestrian activityw a prefened mode of transportation in densely d areas with accommodation for the handicapped.

2. Support the pursuit of new &ding sources for transportation and pedestrian-system improvement.

3. Use traffic signalization improvements and intersection improvements dmv tra* and - improve the safety and quality of the pedestrian environment. 4. Update and implement a citywide pedestrian plan and program. 5. Promote and plan for greater street co~~nectivity in major travel corridors. 6. Promote the provision of pedestrian and bicycle transportation facilities in new commercial

and residential developments. 7. Develop a system of multi-use recreational trails within the open sp& I , and 'heenways

system, for use by all ages. 8. Require sidewalks for all new developments in transit station areas and encourage sidewalks

elsewhere. 9. Incorporate sidewalks irito design plans for all transportation improvements when feasible. 10. Reduce vehicular travel speeds city-wide and re-time traffic signals to slow traffic and favor

pedestrian crossing needs and safety. 1 1. Rebuild intersections in high pedestrian traffic areas to reduce crossing distances and improve

visual quality. 12. Encourage the redevelopment of surface parking lots into higher-density, mixed-use

developments. 13. Encourage mixed-use developments with s h a i e d p a r ~ h6irgst t6e different uses. 14. Encourage participati~n in Transportation Management Associations to encourage alternative

modes of travel, promote shared parking, and reduce traffu: ~onges t io~ and the demand for parking.

The following policies are from the Lands Use E I b t of the City's Comprehensive Development Plan:

1. Promote neighborhood conservation. 2. Encourage nodal development. 3. Discourage strip commercial development. _ - . 4. Promote residential density near available infrststructure. 5. Minimize urban sprawl, 6. Develop transit station areas. 7. Enhance the City's pedestriw s 8. Plan land use transition aream.

, I ,

The following policies are from tha Open S ~ c e Plan: ' 1

1. Unify the City by linking neighborhoods through greenway development. 2. Provide public parks and plazas in commercial areas, to include spaces for socializing, special

events, outdoor dining, sculpture, fountains, landmarks and gateways. 3. Develop a system of pedestrian and bicycle trails within the open space and greenways

system for all ages.


Appendix 90: Economic Development Incentives

Atlanta Renewal Communities

The ktuldy area is located within the Westside Renewal Community area Projects within the Renewal C o d t y are be eligible for sigmficant tax incentives, such as tax credits, tax deductions, capital gains exclusions and bond h c i n g .

Established by the 2000 Community Renewal Tax Relief Act, the Renewal Community Initiative encourages public-private collaboration to generate economic development in 40 distressed communities around the country. Atlanta will rsceive mgulatory relief and tax breaks to help local businesses provide more jobs and promote c o m ~ t y revitalization. The City of Atlanta will utilize tax credits, tax deductions, capital gains exclusions and bond financing.

Urban Enterprise Zone Program An Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ) is a designated district within a depressed area where the City of Atlanta and Fulton County may abate ad valorem taxes on new development, rehabilitation and certain inventories in order to encourage private investment and expand the tax base. The City may also waive development impact fees associated with development within enterprise zones.

Housing is one of the six types of enterprise zone. The purpose of housing enterprise zone is to promote affordable housing. The affordable housing requirements for developments with UEZ designation are:

Housing a 20% of units must be affordable a 10% of affordable units within each bedroom type and composition must be affordable

Mixed Use ResidentiaVComrnercial 20% of units must be affordable

a 10% of affordable units within each bedroom type and composition must be affordable

Weed and Seed

Atlanta Weed and Seed coordinates federal, state, municipal and community resources to co-design neighborhood action plans that reduce crime, monitor juveniles, keep students in school, revitalize neighborhoods and build community capacity.

Weed and Seed is a community-based, multi-agency comprehensive strategy approach to law enforcement, crime prevention, and neighborhood revitalization. This initiative brings together people and resources to prevent and control crime. The strategy takes a two-pronged approach: law enforcement agencies and prosecutors Weeding Out criminal activities and Seeding In human services to the area encompassing prevention, intervention, treatment and neighborhood revitalization.


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