Community Corner

Glenwood Place Project Fight Far From Over

'Our position is clear and they know where we stand.'

by Chris Kazakos

Dear neighbors,

Thank you for signing this petition in support of stopping Fuqua Development’s proposed big-box shopping center in Grant Park/Glenwood Park at 800 Glenwood Ave. Unfortunately, this fight is far from finished and your continued support is vital.

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As proud residents and homeowners, our sense of community is the common thread that binds us together. We represent a quiet neighborhood and remain ardently passionate about ensuring our streets are safe for children to play on. Let us not weaken our sense of community, but strengthen it with responsible economic development.

While Fuqua Development’s initial sets of plans for 800 Glenwood Ave. were rejected, unfortunately that was only a harmless pothole in Fuqua’s road to repave the landscape of our neighborhood. After a resounding public outcry and recommendations from the City of Atlanta Department of Planning and Community Development concerning the original concept, Fuqua was granted an opportunity to re-submit. Because of a loophole in zoning laws, Fuqua was only responsible for the minor stipulations set forth by the city and dismissed the community’s concerns.

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On Dec. 28, 2012, Fuqua re-submitted site development plans that still include a 155,000-plus square foot major retail anchor with more than 1,000 parking spaces, a drive-through restaurant, and a bank. Perhaps the most glaring and troubling reality is the only entrances and exits for this proposed big-box development are on two-lane neighborhood streets, one of which is directly across from Maynard Jackson High School. There is also limited return access to Interstate 20. This will likely cause a significant increase in traffic throughout our neighborhood. The new proposal also asks the city to waive some Beltline Overlay District regulations.

In the past, Fuqua Development principal proprietor Jeff Fuqua has shown interest in the “input of neighbors” in previous developments. For this project, however, Fuqua has remained mostly mum. Judging by the latest submission, he has no interest in the Beltline’s future or the local residents whose lives will have a major negative impact as a direct result of this development.

Atlanta City Councilwoman Carla Smith (from District 1, which includes 800 Glenwood Ave.) and Mayor Kasim Reed have also remained silent. It’s another disturbing aspect of this issue. Mayor Reed and Councilwoman Smith have failed to represent the majority of their constituents who oppose this development. Our position is clear and they know where we stand. It’s time for these officials to do what we elected them to do.

Time is running out. Neighborhood Planning Unit-W is close (within the week) to submitting its official response to Fuqua's latest application and the City's next decision will be soon after. 

As a community, we have rallied around a central cause: Responsible economic development for Grant and Glenwood Parks. More action must be taken.

What can you do?

  • Find out how you can participate in the organized effort led by concerned members of our community by emailing smartglenwood@gmail.com
  • Call or write local media outlets

— Mr. Kazakos is a resident of Ormewood Park.


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