Atlanta Bets on Transit-Oriented Density
A new transit-oriented development called "The Row 900" is nearing groundbreaking in Atlanta's Peoplestown neighborhood. The project, built next to a MARTA rail line, exemplifies the national push to integrate housing and amenities with public transit to create denser, more sustainable urban cores.
The "Row 900" project is part of a larger city-wide strategy to encourage dense, mixed-use development around its 24 MARTA rail stations. Atlanta has identified 2,600 acres of vacant or under-utilized land near transit, aiming to boost ridership, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and revitalize neighborhoods. This push aligns with Mayor Andre Dickens' goal to create and preserve 20,000 affordable housing units by 2030, with transit-oriented developments being a key component of this initiative. This development is situated in a rapidly changing area adjacent to the Atlanta BeltLine's Southside Trail and is near the final stop of MARTA's first bus rapid transit (BRT) line, the A-Line. The Peoplestown neighborhood has seen a surge in construction, including both market-rate and affordable housing projects, sparking concerns about gentrification and displacement among longtime residents. Nearby, the "Terminal South" project is transforming warehouses into a food hall and retail hub, expected to create 250 jobs. MARTA's Office of Transit-Oriented Development is actively pursuing joint ventures with private developers to build mixed-income communities on transit-adjacent land. Other significant projects include the King Memorial Station TOD, a $62.5 million development with 300 units (100 affordable), and the multi-tower "Hollowell Innovation District" planned for the Bankhead station, which will feature 421 apartments. These projects aim to increase transit use at underutilized stations and provide more equitable access to employment centers. For large firms like Gensler and SOM, a strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of projects with a clear narrative is crucial for internship candidates. Proficiency in software such as Revit, Rhino, and other 3D modeling and sustainability analysis tools is highly sought after. Demonstrating experience through competitions, workshops, or freelance projects can also make an applicant stand out. The push for transit-oriented development directly intersects with major trends in sustainable design that top firms are implementing. Biophilic design, which incorporates natural light, ventilation, and greenery, is increasingly used to improve occupant well-being and reduce energy consumption. Green roofs and walls can act as natural insulators, and the integration of renewable energy sources is becoming standard in creating net-zero buildings.
