Bowen Homes Redevelopment Project
Overview
The Bowen Homes Redevelopment Project is a transformative initiative aimed at addressing Atlanta’s housing affordability crisis while honoring the history and aspirations of the community. Located on Atlanta's Westside, the redevelopment focuses on revitalizing the 74-acre site of the former Bowen Homes public housing complex, which was demolished in 2009 due to deteriorating conditions. The project encompasses surrounding areas, including Carey Park, Almond Park, and segments of Donald Lee Hollowell and James Jackson Parkways, collectively forming the Bowen Choice Neighborhood.
Backed by a $40 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from HUD and leveraging over $520 million in additional public, private, and philanthropic funding, the redevelopment is projected to grow into a $1 billion investment. It is designed to serve as a national model for equitable and sustainable community revitalization.
Key Components of the Bowen Homes Redevelopment Project
Housing Transformation
The project’s housing strategy emphasizes creating over 2,000 mixed-income rental and for-sale units, with a significant portion dedicated to affordability. In the initial phases, 756 units will be built, with 67% designated as affordable housing. Future phases aim to meet high environmental and sustainability standards while addressing the city’s pressing need for quality, accessible housing.Empowering Residents
The redevelopment prioritizes the people of Bowen Homes, linking former residents to programs and resources that support personal and economic empowerment. This includes initiatives focused on health, education, and workforce development to improve the quality of life for both returning and new residents.Neighborhood Revitalization
The project integrates a comprehensive neighborhood strategy, addressing residential and commercial blight, enhancing retail and recreational amenities, and promoting environmental justice. Plans include a workforce training center with on-site housing and childcare, the introduction of a quality grocery store, and a commitment to equitable development that benefits legacy residents and the broader community.
Significance
The redevelopment is not only a response to the city’s affordable housing challenges but also a holistic approach to community revitalization. Through innovative collaboration between Atlanta Housing, the City of Atlanta, developers, and community stakeholders, the project is set to become a model for other cities nationwide. By blending affordable housing with robust support services and equitable neighborhood development, the Bowen Homes Redevelopment Project will re-establish the area as a thriving, inclusive community that reflects the values and needs of its residents.
Bowen Homes Projects
The West Hollowell Foundation plays a vital role in monitoring and advocating for key revitalization projects in the community. These initiatives aim to address critical needs, preserve the area’s cultural heritage, and create a thriving, inclusive neighborhood for all residents. Below are descriptions of the transformative projects underway:
Bowen Homes Redevelopment
The Bowen Homes Redevelopment project focuses on revitalizing the Bowen Homes neighborhood and its surrounding areas, including Carey Park, Almond Park, and segments of the Donald Lee Hollowell and James Jackson Parkways. This ambitious initiative will deliver over 2,000 rental and ownership housing units, addressing affordable housing needs and creating opportunities for community growth in a formerly abandoned area.
Stormwater Retention Pond/Park
This project focuses on enhancing sewer and stormwater infrastructure in the Bowen Homes area. A stormwater retention feature will be constructed on the site to address flooding and environmental concerns while also serving as a functional and aesthetic community park. These investments will support the long-term health and resilience of the neighborhood.
Memorial Plaza
The Memorial Plaza is a strategic placemaking initiative that celebrates the cultural legacy of West Hollowell. This plaza will honor the daycare explosion tragedy and the "Bombs Over Baghdad" music video, paying homage to the neighborhood’s rich history and contributions to hip-hop culture. Planned as part of the Central Square in the Bowen site redevelopment, the Memorial Plaza will include a collaborative design charrette involving former Bowen residents and community members to ensure their voices shape this cultural landmark.
Bowen Urban Forest Preserve
The Bowen Urban Forest Preserve aims to protect and enhance the natural environment adjacent to AD Williams Park. This initiative includes acquiring and preserving forest property near the Bowen Homes site to create a dedicated green space. The forest preserve will serve as an important recreational and ecological asset for the community, promoting sustainability and connection to nature.
Bowen Brownfield Cleanup
The Bowen Brownfield Cleanup project, funded by the City’s revolving loan fund, is a critical environmental initiative to prepare the site for redevelopment. This effort involves remediating and capping a brownfield on the Bowen site, ensuring the land is safe for housing and other uses. Cleanup will take place ahead of each phase of construction, paving the way for sustainable development.
Bowen Homes Projects
Bowen Homes Redevelopment
The Bowen Homes Redevelopment project focuses on revitalizing the Bowen Homes neighborhood and its surrounding areas, including Carey Park, Almond Park, and segments of the Donald Lee Hollowell and James Jackson Parkways. This ambitious initiative will deliver over 2,000 rental and ownership housing units, addressing affordable housing needs and creating opportunities for community growth in a formerly abandoned area.
Bowen Brownfield Cleanup
The Bowen Brownfield Cleanup project, funded by the City’s revolving loan fund, is a critical environmental initiative to prepare the site for redevelopment. This effort involves remediating and capping a brownfield on the Bowen site, ensuring the land is safe for housing and other uses. Cleanup will take place ahead of each phase of construction, paving the way for sustainable development.
Bowen Urban Forest Preserve
The Bowen Urban Forest Preserve aims to protect and enhance the natural environment adjacent to AD Williams Park. This initiative includes acquiring and preserving forest property near the Bowen Homes site to create a dedicated green space. The forest preserve will serve as an important recreational and ecological asset for the community, promoting sustainability and connection to nature.
Memorial Plaza
The Memorial Plaza is a strategic placemaking initiative that celebrates the cultural legacy of West Hollowell. This plaza will honor the daycare explosion tragedy and the "Bombs Over Baghdad" music video, paying homage to the neighborhood’s rich history and contributions to hip-hop culture. Planned as part of the Central Square in the Bowen site redevelopment, the Memorial Plaza will include a collaborative design charrette involving former Bowen residents and community members to ensure their voices shape this cultural landmark.
Stormwater Retention Pond/Park
This project focuses on enhancing sewer and stormwater infrastructure in the Bowen Homes area. A stormwater retention feature will be constructed on the site to address flooding and environmental concerns while also serving as a functional and aesthetic community park. These investments will support the long-term health and resilience of the neighborhood.