Buckhead, Atlanta, October 20, 2025
News Summary
Katharine Kelley has been appointed as the new leader of the Buckhead Coalition and the Buckhead Community Improvement District (CID), starting in January 2026. With over 30 years of experience in urban development, she has significantly contributed to transforming Atlanta’s skyline with projects totaling over $2 billion. Kelley’s notable achievements include the redevelopment of Ponce City Market, reflecting her deep commitment to the Buckhead community. Her leadership is expected to tackle pressing issues like traffic congestion and public safety, while advocating for urban infrastructure improvements.
Buckhead
Katharine Kelley has been named the next leader of the Buckhead Coalition and the Buckhead Community Improvement District (CID), officially starting in January 2026 after a four-month national search. Kelley, a native of Buckhead, currently serves as president of Green Street Properties. Her appointment is seen as a significant response to local representation concerns, reinstating a Buckhead resident to lead these influential organizations in the community.
This role reflects Kelley’s personal commitment to her hometown. With over 30 years of experience in urban development, she has played a pivotal role in transforming Atlanta’s urban landscape, with projects valued at over $2 billion. Notably, Kelley contributed to the $350 million redevelopment of Ponce City Market, which received LEED Gold certification and earned the Urban Land Institute’s Global Award of Excellence.
Other key projects linked to Kelley include the revitalization of South Downtown, development of Glenwood Park, and Post Riverside, which are considered trailblazers in New Urbanism in Atlanta. She holds a master’s degree in real estate development from Columbia University and an MBA from Harvard University, where she wrote her thesis on self-taxing business districts, a topic pertinent to her upcoming role.
Kelley’s leadership extends beyond real estate; she has served as president of the Rotary Club of Atlanta and is a member of the City of Atlanta Zoning Review Board. Her impact on city development was recognized in 2023 when she received the Atlanta ULI ChangeMakers Award.
She will succeed Jim Durrett, who has served as the leader of the CID for 17 years and both organizations for five years. The Buckhead Coalition is composed of 125 senior executives from influential businesses, while the CID has raised over $90 million for infrastructure enhancements.
Kelley’s extensive experience in handling projects requiring complex problem-solving positions her well to address significant challenges, including traffic congestion and public safety concerns. She is enthusiastic about the opportunity to collaborate with various stakeholders to improve Buckhead’s infrastructure and the quality of life for its residents.
Furthermore, Kelley views the issues facing Buckhead as part of a larger narrative for Atlanta. Public safety, homelessness, and affordable housing are key areas that she is prepared to tackle. She is ready to navigate the historic preservation requirements that accompany future projects, such as HUB404, a proposed park designed to be located over Georgia 400.
Key Facts
- Katharine Kelley named CEO of Buckhead Coalition and Buckhead CID.
- Officially starting in January 2026.
- Kelley brings over 30 years of urban development experience.
- Famous projects include Ponce City Market redevelopment worth $350 million.
- Kelley has an MBA from Harvard University and a master’s degree in real estate development from Columbia University.
- To succeed Jim Durrett, who led for 17 years.
- Buckhead Coalition includes 125 senior executives from influential businesses.
- CID has raised over $90 million for infrastructure.
FAQ Section
Who is Katharine Kelley?
Katharine Kelley has been selected as the next leader of the Buckhead Coalition and the Buckhead Community Improvement District (CID).
When will Katharine Kelley officially start her role?
She will officially assume the dual CEO role in January 2026.
What is Kelley’s experience in urban development?
Kelley has over 30 years of experience in urban development and has been involved in transforming Atlanta’s urban landscape with projects worth over $2 billion.
What notable projects has Kelley worked on?
Kelley’s notable projects include the $350 million redevelopment of Ponce City Market which earned LEED Gold certification.
Who will Kelley succeed in her new role?
Kelley will succeed Jim Durrett, who has led the CID for 17 years.
Charts of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Kelley’s Role | CEO of Buckhead Coalition and Buckhead CID |
| Start Date | January 2026 |
| Experience | Over 30 years in urban development |
| Notable Project | Ponce City Market Redevelopment ($350 million) |
| Succeeded By | Jim Durrett |
| Funding Raised by CID | Over $90 million |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Buckhead.com: Ponce City Market Developer Returns Home to Lead Buckhead
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Katharine Kelley Buckhead CEO
- AJC: She Worked on Many Well-Known Atlanta Projects, Buckhead is Her Next Focus
- Bisnow: Report – Katharine Kelley Departs Newport
- Pinnacle: Pinnacle Opens Full-Service Office in Buckhead
- Wikipedia: Buckhead
- Google Search: Buckhead Atlanta
- Google Scholar: Buckhead Urban Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Buckhead
- Google News: Buckhead News
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
