On June 6, Mayor Andre Dickens and Invest Atlanta announced the launch of renovations for the long-neglected former Atlanta Constitution building in downtown Atlanta.
This $40.6 million project aims to transform the historic structure into “Folio House,” which will incorporate affordable housing alongside commercial space.
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the city to revitalize downtown, especially in anticipation of the eight FIFA World Cup matches slated for the summer of 2026.
Mayor Dickens highlighted that the transformation of the building at 143 Alabama reflects a commitment to equitable downtown revitalization.
He mentioned that this project complements other investments at nearby sites, including 2 Peachtree and properties on Trinity and Forsyth, showcasing the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in revitalizing underutilized buildings.
The first phase of construction, designated as Phase 1A, is expected to be completed by May 2026, focusing on stabilizing and restoring the building’s historic exterior.
Following this, Phase 1B will introduce over 5,000 square feet of commercial space and create 50 affordable housing units priced between 30 and 80 percent of the Area Median Income.
To support this initiative, a $3.5 million grant from the Westside TAD Ascension Fund will ensure the permanent affordability of these housing units.
The former Atlanta Constitution building has been dormant since the 1970s, making this the first development activity at the site in decades.
Constructed in 1947 in the Art Moderne style, it stands as a rare example of 1930s Art Deco architecture in Atlanta.
Following its original use by the Atlanta Constitution, the building ceased newspaper operations after the 1955 merger with the Atlanta Journal, which led to subsequent occupancy by Georgia Power until 1972.
Since then, it has remained vacant and was listed in 2023 by the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation as one of the “Places in Peril,” indicating its risk of demolition and neglect.
Multiple redevelopment plans have been proposed over the years, but none were realized – until now.
When completed, “The Folio” will feature 190 affordable housing units, alongside vast commercial spaces and an outdoor area named “The Pitch,” designed for World Cup events.
According to Invest Atlanta’s CEO Dr. Eloisa Klementich, the city’s economic agency projects that the overall economic impact of this initiative will reach approximately $130 million.
Phase 1B is projected for completion in March 2027, after the World Cup matches, while the final phase intends to add more affordable residential units by July 2028, which will include a 151-unit building on the adjacent property.
For this ambitious project, the city has partnered with Gorman & Company, known for their experience in complex historic renovations.
Gorman & Company Southeast Market President Joel Reed expressed that the vision for Folio House is to respect Atlanta’s rich history while creating sustainable opportunities for families seeking affordable living in the urban core.
The affordable units will be priced according to the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell Area Median Income, which was set at $75,300 for a single individual in 2024.
For instance, a one-bedroom unit priced at 30 percent AMI would cost approximately $604 per month.
City leaders aim to foster greater equity in downtown Atlanta through this initiative.
Reed emphasized that rejuvenating the former Atlanta Constitution building goes beyond preservation; it aims to create a thriving environment where working families can flourish, close to public transport, jobs, and the city’s many attractions.
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