The Historic Auburn Avenue Business and Property Owners Group represents those whose interests in Atlanta’s historic Auburn Avenue have been adversely affected by the construction of the Atlanta Streetcar project.
The Atlanta Streetcar project cost upwards of $90 million dollars to complete. This budget was to include everything from utility relocation to the purchase of additional vehicles, which allows for further expansion of the transit system when warranted. It did not, however, include any provisions to address, compensate or assist the community being impacted by this project.
Essentially, the community most affected by construction has been abandoned.
The business and property owners group supports the streetcar’s overarching purpose, particularly as it relates to the re-development and preservation of this historic community. However, the prolonged closure of Auburn has had an overwhelmingly negative impact on the financial well-being of the community.
Since 2012, construction has crippled business parking and pedestrian traffic, creating a noisy, dust-ridden environment that has prevented and deterred essential customer access. Further, the infrastructures of several buildings in the neighborhood are aggressively deteriorating — a consequence of the constant bulldozing, drilling and excavating of the streets while replacing utilities and laying streetcar tracks. The community has been informed of construction schedules through emails and monthly meetings, but there have been no efforts to address the severe financial impact of sustained construction.
Our group is the voice of this historic community speaking out against a modern form of economic injury and disenfranchisement. We believe the progress of this once-vibrant and rich community begins with the welfare of its people. The history of Auburn Avenue, a centerpiece of Atlanta tourism, must not be compromised by the influx or growth of re-development projects. The community must be lifted up alongside the corporate development to remain true to the ideals and legacy of one of Atlanta’s most important and influential communities.
Thus, the Historic Auburn Avenue Business and Property Owners Group seeks:
• Compensation for loss of needed due to Atlanta Streetcar project construction from 2012 to 2014.
• An abatement of property taxes assessed during the streetcar construction period.
• Grant opportunities, and low-interest loans from the city of Atlanta, Atlanta Downtown Improvement District and Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, to assist owners along the project corridor to rehabilitate and repair property damage from the prolonged construction.
Similar forms of consideration and support have been provided to communities in other cities where installation of streetcars and other urban rail caused significant disruption. We point to Washington, D.C.’s program during construction of its subway system, as well as that of Portland, Ore.
Atlanta has always had a progressive, forward-looking approach to economic and community development. It has also been mindful of the rich cultural and civic history of its neighborhoods, including downtown. Historic Auburn Avenue is an integral part of the fabric of downtown Atlanta, and it deserves support.
Devon Woodson owns Pal’s Lounge on Auburn Avenue.
