Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward is a neighborhood steeped in history and cultural significance.  It is best known for the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and its roots in civil rights.  Over the past two decades, the area has transformed dramatically through a carefully planned redevelopment project.  This has become one of Atlanta’s trendiest districts, and a model for urban revitalization.  The blend of historic charm with modern amenities creates  a vibrant community for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

History and Vision of Redevelopment

The Old Fourth Ward redevelopment project was a vision shaped by public-private partnerships.  It was led by organizations like Invest Atlanta, the Atlanta BeltLine, and numerous local developers.  The initial intention was to transform an industrial wasteland into a vibrant community without erasing its rich historical character.  Following years of economic downturn and disinvestment, the redevelopment continues to pump new life into the area.  The goal is to create the Old Fourth Ward into a desirable place to live, work and play!

The Role of the Atlanta BeltLine

Central to the Old Fourth Ward’s redevelopment has been the Atlanta BeltLine, a transformative 22-mile trail and transit corridor.  Its central design is to connect Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods. The opening of the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail segment in 2012 created a direct pathway into Old Fourth Ward, instantly boosting foot traffic.  This new access also spurred a wave of business opportunities in the area.  The BeltLine has not only improved mobility and access but also fostered a culture of outdoor recreation and social interaction.

There is even a elevator that connects the Old Fourth Ward to the BeltLine.  This elevator will hold your bike and is the first free standing lift along the BeltLine path!  If you have a fear of elevators,  bike friendly stairs are available too.

The Eastside Trail  runs through the heart of the Old Fourth Ward and is a focal point for residents and visitors.  It offers a variety of attractions, including green spaces, art installations, lively restaurants, and shops. The BeltLine’s popularity has attracted a young, dynamic population to the neighborhood, leading to increased demand for residential developments and further boosting the local economy.

Ponce City Market: A Symbol of Transformation

Perhaps the most iconic part of the Old Fourth Ward redevelopment is Ponce City Market.   This building and surrounding area has a rich history.

1860s – Named for Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León’s mythical search for the Fountain of Youth.

1903 –  The area was transformed into Ponce de Leon Amusement Park, quickly becoming one of the city’s most popular attractions. It was fondly referred to it as “the Coney Island of Atlanta.”

1907 –  The lake across from the Ponce de Leon amusement park is drained, filled in, and converted into the Ponce de Leon ballpark.

1925 – Amusement park closes and Sears, Roebuck & Co of Chicago purchases  land on Ponce de Leon Avenue for construction of a retail store and warehouse distribution center .

1991 – City of Atlanta purchases the building from Sears and converts it into a center for city offices, renaming it City Hall East.

2010 – Jamestown puts together a deal to purchase the building.

2011 – A restoration begins of the structure honoring its history.

2024 – The Ponce City Market houses many retail and restaurants.  There are two 21-story residential towers and a four-story office building being constructed.  The developers have completed the Signal House, one of the residential towers, and it is now open to new residents.

As a revitalized historic landmark, Ponce City Market bridges the neighborhood’s industrial past with its modern, creative future. The market has become a central gathering place, drawing in locals and tourists alike with its unique mix of food halls, boutique shops, and cultural events.

Fourth Ward Office Project

Located along the Beltline, this impressive mixed-use development will have 1.1 million square feet of office space, retail, and outdoor public areas. A highlight is the “Appalachian Steps,” a green passage that connects to the Beltline and the Fourth Ward Park. Designed to merge with Atlanta’s natural landscape, it reflects the city’s gritty and young energy while offering sustainable, innovative architectural designs​.    This sleek black structure, edged in metal, features ground-level retail and several levels of underground parking.

Green Spaces and Park Development

Green space was a critical component of the redevelopment project, and the Historic Fourth Ward Park stands as a testament to this commitment. This 17-acre park, located adjacent to the BeltLine, transformed what was once a neglected industrial site into a lush, lively public area featuring a lake, skate park, amphitheater, splash pad, and playground. The park’s floodplain design serves a dual purpose: beautifying the area and addressing storm water management, an innovative approach that underscores the project’s commitment to sustainable development.

Historic Fourth Ward Park has become a key gathering space for the community, hosting festivals, concerts, and outdoor activities year-round. The park, combined with the BeltLine’s trail network, has fostered a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle and an appreciation for outdoor spaces among residents, a shift from the car-centric culture that previously defined the area.

Impact on the Local Community and Economy

The Old Fourth Ward redevelopment has spurred significant economic growth, bringing in new businesses, restaurants, and residences to the neighborhood. This wave of development has revitalized the area, attracting both locals and visitors alike. This growth has boosted property values and created new jobs, strengthening the city’s economy. It has also made the neighborhood a highly attractive destination for real estate investment. While the influx of new businesses and residents has invigorated the area, it has also presented challenges such as rising housing costs, which has led to concerns about affordability and gentrification.

The Future of Old Fourth Ward

The Old Fourth Ward redevelopment project is far from complete.  To keep up with the growth, planners are developing new projects to further enhance the area’s connectivity, infrastructure, and amenities  Future developments aim to maintain the neighborhood’s balance of history and modernity, fostering a community where residents from all backgrounds can thrive.

One of the newest projects is the the Old Fourth Ward Hospital that has been vacant since 2022.  They plan to demolish the buildings in early 2025.   Wellstar, the owner of the property is working with Atlanta development firm The Integral Group on the project. So far, the plans include green space, retail and commercial businesses, and housing. Additionally, there is discussion about incorporating health-focused components into the site. However, it is not clear what the health components actually are.  Many residents have voiced concern about not  having some type of health care facility in the neighborhood.