FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 24, 2021

Sale Represents Final Components of Transit-Oriented Development in Decatur

ATLANTA – The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has sold two parcels of land near Avondale rail station on the Blue Line for the development of 80 housing units for seniors. Columbia Residential will develop the affordable and mixed income housing units in partnership with the Decatur Housing Authority. The parcels, totaling 1.45 acres, are the final two components of the master transit-oriented development (TOD) executed between MARTA, Columbia Ventures LLC and the City of Decatur.

“This sale represents another great effort by MARTA’s TOD team and supports our ongoing mission to provide equitable access to transit and affordable housing,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Jeffrey Parker. “Offering senior affordable housing next to our transit stations provides freedom and flexibility for the older members of our communities. Thank you to Columbia Residential for your continued partnership in bringing affordable units online near our rail stations.”

“Older populations face numerous housing challenges, especially those related to affordability, physical accessibility, and access to medical care inside and outside the home,” said Decatur Mayor Patti Garrett. “To have affordable housing with direct access to transit and the greater MARTA system is an incredible advantage for our senior residents and greatly improves quality of life opportunities to connect with others and to needed services.”

The City of Decatur, Decatur Housing Authority and DeKalb County are providing financial support for the new development, which adds to the 92 affordable senior units built in 2018 and provides housing for residents at a range of incomes below 80 percent of area median income. The 80 additional 1- and 2-bedroom units and amenities targeted for seniors have direct access to Avondale Station.

“Columbia is extremely pleased to be able to continue our productive partnership of affordable and mixed-income housing in these key locations at MARTA stations. The commitment of MARTA and its land to housing affordability as a priority is facilitating affordable housing in transit-advantaged locations around metro Atlanta,” said President of Columbia Residential Jim Grauley.

MARTA currently has 1,500 affordable housing units either completed, under construction, in negotiation or in procurement/planning with various development partners and throughout its system.

About Columbia Residential

Columbia Residential is an award-winning Atlanta-based developer of affordable and mixed-income housing communities, founded by current Chairman Noel Khalil 30 years ago. Columbia Residential develops, manages, and owns communities ranging from infill sites to large master planned communities in Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Louisiana, and is currently managing over 8,500 affordable and mixed-income units in 60 communities. To learn more visit www.columbiares.com.