Atlanta Beltline Issues Request for Proposals for Transformative Development at 356 University Avenue

Atlanta Beltline has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to transform 13.7 acres at 356 University Avenue to create a mixed use and mixed income development in the historic Pittsburgh neighborhood along the Southside Trail. The parcel is located next to Pittsburgh Yards^® along the Beltline's Southside Trail, which has been a beacon for local entrepreneurs.

The Beltline is seeking an experienced developer that will share its vision in developing market rate and affordable residential, commercial and industrial space while incorporating greenspace, public art to fuel economic equity and job growth. Since April 2024, the Beltline has engaged nearly two dozen community groups through public meetings, advisory panels, and NPU sessions to gather input that directly shapes the future of this development, ensuring it reflects the needs of residents.

Based on community feedback and a new master plan completed in July, the RFP is asking for proposals that emphasize sustainability, equity, and long-term community benefit. Other requirements include: 

• At least 30% of residential units reserved as permanently affordable (10% at or below 80% AMI, 20% at or below 50% AMI)

• A minimum of 30% of total floor area dedicated to light industrial use

• Affordable commercial space (at least 20% at rents 30% below market for 10+ years)

• A partnership with an arts, cultural, or community organization for on-site programming

• Accessible green spaces, ADA pathways, and Beltline connectivity

The preliminary concept plan for the site also includes multifamily housing including market rate and affordable units and varying commercial space including retail, office, and light industrial space. The guiding principles of the development include inclusive housing economic opportunity, light industrial innovation, cultural/civic activation, connectivity & design, sustainability, and compatibility with the overall vision of Pittsburgh Yards^®.  

“The 356 University site represents our unwavering commitment to equitable investment in communities that have long deserved it,” said Dennis Richards, Vice President of Housing Policy and Development at the Atlanta Beltline. “We're approaching every aspect of this development with deliberate intention, ensuring it honors community voices, providing residents with affordable housing options and affordable commercial space that define this neighborhood and creates meaningful economic opportunities that will endure for generations.”

The 356 University site is part of the Beltline’s land acquisition strategy which acquired the property in August 2023 to support equitable development. To date, the Beltline has acquired nearly 90 acres of land preserved for residential and commercial affordability for both residents and small businesses around the corridor. By controlling the land, the Beltline serves as the master planner partnering with developers to deliver transformative, community-driven projects with long-term affordable housing, affordable retail spaces, and sustainable land use, to spark job and small business growth. 

Pre-development activities are underway on other sites owned by the Beltline, including 425 Chappell Road, 350 Chappell Road, Murphy Crossing, and 579 Garson Drive. 

The future development position capitalizes on the growing momentum south of I-20, where approximately 20 development projects are underway within the area. The site's strategic location gains even greater significance with the accelerated completion of Southside Trail Segments 2 and 3, which will create 17.9 miles of continuous trail by the first quarter of 2026, well ahead of the original timeline and in preparation for Atlanta's hosting of 2026 FIFA World Cup matches.

Once a thriving hub of Black-owned business and churches, the Pittsburgh community has a rich history as a post-Civil War community settled by formerly enslaved people with housing built around repair shops. Though the area later endured decades of disinvestment due to redlining and economic decline, Pittsburgh remains a resilient community with a deep sense of place and purpose. Today, with increased investment returning to the area, the focus is on ensuring legacy residents can remain in their homes and benefit from new economic opportunities.

“This is a chance to build on the rich legacy of Pittsburgh Yards by creating a place that reflects the values, culture, and aspirations of Southwest Atlanta,” said Kelvin Collins, Vice President of Economic Development at the Atlanta Beltline. “Our goal is to foster a destination where residents and small businesses can thrive and where arts, commerce and equity converge.”

The Atlanta Beltline developed a stakeholder advisory committee of residents and local leaders to ensure the development aligns with the area’s needs and priorities.

Interested parties must register via the Bonfire Procurement Portal here. The RFP documents and additional information are available here. Visit beltline.org to find more information can be found on 325 University Avenue.

Media assets can be downloaded here.