Northwest Atlanta Industrial Freight Study
We helped make the case for preserving industrial land in Northwest Atlanta — one of the city's most economically significant but increasingly pressured corridors.
City of Atlanta Department of City Planning
Atlanta, GA
Gresham Smith
Comprising roughly 20% of Atlanta's total land area, the Freight ATL Northwest Study Area has faced growing tension between legacy industrial uses and new mixed-use development, freight congestion, and rising industrial property costs. SB Friedman prepared an industrial development and jobs report to highlight the economic significance of maintaining industrial land uses in the area and inform strategies to balance market pressures with preserving quality industrial jobs.
Work Completed
Conducted an economic cluster analysis to identify high-impact industrial clusters with high specialization and growing employment
Researched national best practices related to urban industrial retention
Evaluated existing industrial supply, development trends, and demolitions and conversions of industrial properties
Conducted stakeholder and case study interviews to inform recommendations on industrial development, land use balance, workforce development, and economic development policies
Results
The Atlanta City Council formally adopted the plan in August 2023. The plan was recognized with the Outstanding Planning Document – Large Community Award by the Georgia Planning Association in 2023.
