New Front Porch Development Launches on Auburn Avenue

News Summary

A significant new development called Front Porch has been inaugurated on Auburn Avenue, revitalizing the Sweet Auburn district with affordable housing and commercial spaces. The project, developed by the Historic District Development Corporation, features 33 co-living units and street-level retail, aiming to attract new residents and businesses. Additionally, a roof garden for urban agriculture will be included, preserving the area’s cultural heritage. With a $37.5 million investment, Front Porch is set to enhance community engagement and provide economic opportunities.

Auburn Avenue, Atlanta — A significant new development called Front Porch has been inaugurated on Auburn Avenue, marking the first residential and commercial development in nearly two decades in the historic Sweet Auburn district. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place recently for the first phase of the ambitious $37.5 million project, which aims to revitalize the area and attract new residents and businesses.

Located just two blocks west of the renowned Ebenezer Baptist Church, the development features 33 co-living residential units that can accommodate a total of 67 bedrooms. The apartments are designed to be affordable, with plans for renters to pay per bedroom, which is expected to make living in the area more accessible to a broader segment of the population.

Developed by the Historic District Development Corporation (HDDC), the Front Porch project includes street-level spaces intended for restaurants and retail shops, complemented by residential units above. The design, created by the architectural firm Cooper Carry, emphasizes community engagement and openness; there will be no gated access to the living spaces.

As part of the development, a roof garden is set to be dedicated to urban agriculture, allowing residents to grow their own produce and enjoy expansive views of downtown Atlanta. In preserving the historical essence of the area, the project also incorporates stained glass from the former Haugabrooks Funeral Home, which will be transformed into an art gallery and event space, further enriching the cultural fabric of the district.

Security measures will be implemented to monitor activity throughout the community, ensuring a safe environment for both residents and visitors. This aspect addresses ongoing concerns related to safety and the presence of unhoused individuals who have established makeshift homes in the vicinity.

The Front Porch development has received funding through a grant from the Eastside Tax Allocation District via Invest Atlanta, which underscores the commitment to economic revitalization in the region. Developers anticipate that affordable rents will serve as an incentive for both new tenants and businesses looking to establish themselves in what was once a thriving hub for Black-owned enterprises.

The groundbreaking for the Front Porch project occurred in 2022, and the successful completion of this first phase is seen as a catalyst for additional investment in the Sweet Auburn district. Historically known for its wealth of Black-owned businesses, the area has faced challenges over the years, including socio-economic downturns and urban decay.

Among the team overseeing the project, Integral will manage the property, while Colliers is responsible for leasing efforts. Co-developer Michael Hatcher highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive community atmosphere that encourages participation from all residents. As the project continues to develop, stakeholders remain optimistic about its potential to reinvigorate the historic district of Sweet Auburn.

In summary, the Front Porch development not only aims to provide affordable housing options but also intends to create a vibrant mixed-use space that supports the local economy and enhances the community’s historical significance. With this new launch, hopes for revitalization in the area are on the rise, paving the way for a brighter future for Auburn Avenue.

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Additional Resources

• Saporta Report: Front Porch Opens Its Front Door to Auburn Avenue
• Access Atlanta: 20 Free Things to Do in Metro Atlanta in May
• Discover Atlanta: Dive Into Creative Camaraderie at Skewed Orbit
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Sweet Auburn
• Axios: Sweet Auburn Affordable Housing Front Porch