Evergreen, Atlanta First United Methodist Plan Affordable Complex

Atlanta First United Methodist Church’s “God-size vision” for an affordable housing project in downtown Atlanta is taking shape.

The church and its development partner, Chicago-based Evergreen Real Estate Group, are gearing up for the first phase of a high-rise development on property the church owns at 360 Peachtree Street, the Atlanta Business Chronicle reported.

The first phase calls for 170 housing units, two schools, retail space and a community gathering hall. Of those 170 units, 85 will be reserved as affordable housing for households earning between 30 and 80 percent of area median income.

“Atlanta has never seen anything like it,” lead pastor, Rev. Jasmine Smothers, told the outlet.

According to details from 2021, the development will include 20-story and 16-story buildings on either side of the church, while a portion of the property is set to be demolished. The estimated cost at the time was $110 million. In total, the project is expected to yield 240 affordable units.

Despite facing hurdles such as high construction costs and interest rates, the church remains committed to the project’s success. This initiative reflects years of planning and collaboration, with the church partnering with development and architecture firms to ensure that the project meets housing needs, while preserving the church’s Gothic-revival architecture.

The historic significance of the First United Methodist Church adds weight to the project, as it was built in 1903 and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The move comes at a critical juncture for Atlanta, where roughly 25 percent of households are burdened by high housing costs. By providing affordable housing options and contributing to the city’s social and economic vitality, the church hopes to make a meaningful impact on the community.

—Quinn Donoghue