ATLANTA — Local realtors say Grant Park is becoming one of Atlanta's hottest neighborhoods.
The renovation of a nearly 100-year-old crumbling building is just one symbol of the changes happening to Intown’s Grant Park.
The building first served as a grocery store in 1926. For years, it sat empty with trees growing through the roof and foundation.
Now the building that just about everyone thought would be torn down is getting a new life thanks to owner and developer Philippe Pellerin.
“So when we bought it, most of the building was collapsing. We’ve since stabilized it using iron and straps and a lot of new wood. And today we’re actually re-pouring the foundation,” said Pellerin.
Surrounded by 1920s bungalows, the Atlanta Zoo, Atlanta Cyclorama and Grant Park, neighbors wanted more places to shop and relax.
Jody Hill Joiner, who lives just blocks away, will be opening a nail salon and spa in the new building.
“I’ve admired this building for a long time, and I’ve lived in this neighborhood for about 15 years and I’ve always dreamed of putting a business in,” said Joiner.
Soon there will also be a coffee shop, a new branch of the one now across from Zoo Atlanta.
Realtors tout Grant Park and nearby Ormewood Park as hot, new and still one of the relatively undiscovered Intown neighborhoods on the way back up.
The BeltLine is nearby and will be even closer after it is completed. The local high school, Maynard Jackson, has just been renovated, restoring interest and involvement from parents.
Realtors said property values are growing at a faster pace than in many metro neighborhoods.
“Being a historic district, the property values have really increased. Part of it is due to its location on the BeltLine and one of its biggest historic districts,” said Melissa Wakamo of Red Robin Group Realtors.