In the heart of Georgia's bustling urban landscape, a significant affordable housing project is nearing completion. Decatur East Phase II, a four-story building designed for senior residents, has recently reached its highest point in construction. This development, strategically located near the Avondale station on MARTA’s Blue Line, exemplifies the growing trend of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) in Atlanta and its surrounding areas. The partnership between Columbia Residential and the Decatur Housing Authority aims to provide 80 new units of affordable senior housing, complementing the existing 92 units from the initial phase launched in 2018. With direct access to public transportation and a variety of amenities tailored for seniors, this project represents a pivotal step in addressing housing needs while promoting sustainable urban growth.
Achieving New Heights: Decatur East Phase II Enters Final Stages
During the vibrant autumn season, the city of Decatur witnessed an important milestone as the Decatur East Phase II project topped out. Situated on Freeman Street, this four-story structure is part of a broader initiative to create transit-oriented communities that thrive around MARTA stations. The project, which began in earnest a year ago, is now entering its final phases. Expected to open by late summer, it will offer one and two-bedroom apartments designed specifically for seniors with incomes below 80 percent of the area median. Adjacent to the Avondale station, the building will feature a serene courtyard elevated above street level, a fitness center, and communal spaces that foster social interaction among residents.
The land for this development was acquired four years ago when MARTA sold two parcels totaling 1.45 acres to Columbia Residential. This strategic move aligns with MARTA's vision to develop mixed-income housing nodes around transit hubs. As one of the last pieces of the southside master TOD plan, Decatur East Phase II underscores the collaborative efforts between MARTA, the City of Decatur, and private developers. The success of similar projects like Marchon at King Memorial station and the Quill complex in Edgewood demonstrates the strong demand for affordable, transit-connected living spaces. These developments have achieved leasing stabilization within six to twelve months, highlighting the effectiveness of combining accessibility with affordability.
Meanwhile, the momentum continues just west of the Avondale station, where the Halo East Decatur project is transforming a full city block into a vibrant community with 370 rental units, retail spaces, and a plaza. This ongoing expansion reflects the city's commitment to creating livable, connected neighborhoods that enhance quality of life for all residents.
From a journalist's perspective, the progress of Decatur East Phase II signifies a promising future for urban development. By integrating affordable housing with efficient public transportation, cities can address critical housing shortages while fostering inclusive, sustainable communities. This project not only provides essential resources for senior citizens but also sets a precedent for future developments that prioritize both functionality and environmental responsibility. As more such initiatives take root, they promise to reshape our cities into thriving hubs where everyone can find a place to call home.