In December 2020, HUD awarded a Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant to AH to create a Neighborhood Transformation Plan (NTP) for the revitalization of the former Bowen Homes and the Brookview Heights neighborhood, the adjacent Carey Park, and segments of James B. Jackson Parkway and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway--collectively referred to as the Bowen Choice Neighborhood. The BCN is located in NPU-G, Council District 9.
Atlanta Housing and its co-applicant the City of Atlanta, has applied for a $40 million Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the redevelopment of 74 acres of the Bowen Homes site. The selected development team comprises McCormack Baron Salazar, The Benoit Group, Coleman and Associates, and JG Consulting.
The Neighborhood Transformation Plan includes more than 2,000 rental and ownership units; several acres of improved greenspace; a green storm water management system; preservation of the natural environment, and an improved street network supporting a mixed-income development with retail and community amenities. The development concept transforms the former Bowen Homes site into a true interconnected neighborhood. Retail and community amenities surround a new central square, which serves as the heart of the neighborhood. A mix of uses provides opportunities for local residents to open businesses in affordable commercial space, entrepreneurship support, and job training opportunities at a Community Resources Center and Innovation Hub.
The concept plan builds on ideas expressed by the former Bowen Homes residents and community, to address environmental and natural assets of the site. A pedestrian green street and linear storm water park connects through the site east to west, creating green infrastructure to reduce flooding. The A.D. Williams Creek Trail will connect to the residential development and surrounding community assets. Atlanta Housing and the City of Atlanta will further work with Atlanta Public Schools on the revitalization of the A.D. Williams school site as part of the redevelopment.