Decatur: 27 Schools Face Closure While Trader Joe’s Moves In

Welcome to your weekly update for Decatur, where big changes are coming to our local schools and grocery runs. We’re diving into the proposed DeKalb school closures and the exciting news that Trader Joe’s is finally replacing "Baby Kroger."

Let’s dive in.

DeKalb County could close 27 schools, initial plan says. Here’s the list.
The DeKalb County School District is reviewing a significant consolidation proposal that could result in the closure of nearly 30 schools to address declining enrollment and aging facilities. This sweeping plan would fundamentally alter school districts and daily commutes for thousands of families across the area if approved.

DeKalb County Commission considering blasting ordinance
County officials are moving forward with a new ordinance to strictly regulate the use of explosives in construction projects near residential neighborhoods. The proposed rules aim to provide better protection for homeowners against property damage and noise disruptions caused by the area's ongoing development boom.

Decatur Library reopens with mandatory security screening after shooting
After a temporary closure following a violent incident, the Decatur Library has officially reopened its doors with the addition of permanent security checkpoints and bag screenings. Residents returning to the downtown branch should plan for extra time to enter the building as the library implements these heightened safety protocols.

Trader Joe’s likely to replace Baby Kroger in Decatur
The long-standing speculation regarding the future of the "Baby Kroger" site on Commerce Drive has shifted toward a concrete transition as Trader Joe's moves to take over the space. This major retail change will transform a staple shopping corner for downtown residents and finally bring the highly requested specialty grocer to the heart of the city.

Decatur Book Festival appoints Bailee Yarbrough as new executive director
The city's premier cultural event has found new leadership in Bailee Yarbrough, a Decatur resident and former industry leader who will now guide the festival’s operations. As the festival is a major draw for local tourism and community engagement, Yarbrough’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the future of this beloved literary tradition.

'A month of St. Patrick's Days': Excitement high among Decatur small businesses for World Cup
Local business owners and city planners are preparing for a massive influx of international visitors as Decatur positions itself as a primary hub for the upcoming World Cup. Residents can expect significant changes to downtown traffic patterns and local commerce as the city braces for what is expected to be an unprecedented summer of activity.

The Link at Columbia Senior Residences - opening - This new 80-unit affordable housing community for seniors has officially opened its doors in Decatur.

Avondale Estates Board of Mayor and Commissioners - Regular Meeting
February 11, 2026 at 12:00 PM
The Board addressed a variety of infrastructure and planning items, most notably the formal adoption of the 2026 Comprehensive Plan Update. This state-mandated document will guide the city’s land use and housing goals for the next decade.

In local development news, the Board held a public hearing and a first reading for a rezoning request at 2744 North Decatur Road. The proposal seeks to change the lot from single-family residential to a "Planned Development" to allow for a 20-unit townhome complex.

On the infrastructure front, the Board moved forward with the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan by awarding a contract for roadway paving on Lakeshore Drive (specifically the segment from Berkeley Road to Wiltshire Drive). Commissioners also approved a contract for proactive stormwater pipe cleaning following heavy rains last year. Finally, the Board held a second reading and officially adopted changes to the city’s animal control ordinance, which updates leash laws in city parks and explores the potential for designated off-leash hours.

Avondale Estates Board of Mayor and Commissioners - Work Session
February 11, 2026 at 12:00 PM
This work session focused on reviewing development applications and infrastructure priorities before they move to a formal vote. A major topic of discussion was the "Phase 3" rollout of the Downtown Master Plan, which will dictate parking and walkability strategies in the commercial core over the next five years.

The Board reviewed several specific property requests on Franklin Street and Lakeshore Drive. Notably, the Board reviewed a proposal for a Conditional Use Permit for "The Local Vine" to expand with an outdoor patio area and service bar.

The session also included a review of the 2026 Stormwater Master Plan, identifying priority repairs for aging drainage pipes throughout the historic district, and a preview of the upcoming city-wide paving schedule.

Avondale Estates Board of Mayor and Commissioners - Regular Meeting
February 11, 2026 at 12:00 AM
In a session centered on downtown vitality and environmental protection, the Board discussed a significant shift toward mixed-use development. A primary focus was the rezoning of 2821 N. Avondale Road. The proposal aims to change the lot from business-only to "Mixed-Use," allowing for a four-story building with ground-floor retail and 20 apartments above. Specific residential items on Berkeley Rd. and Lakeshore Dr. were also discussed.

The Board also held the first reading of an amendment to the Tree Canopy Protection Ordinance. Following resident concerns about the loss of hardwoods during renovations, the amendment proposes higher replanting requirements and increased fines for unauthorized tree removals.

DeKalb County Board of Commissioners
February 10, 2026 at 9:00 AM
The County Commissioners handled a heavy agenda focused on the 2026 annual budget and massive infrastructure investments. The Board moved forward with over $100 million in sewer system upgrades to address reliability and consent decree requirements. They also discussed a "Water Customer Bill of Rights" and an "Electric Landscape Maintenance Device Rebate Program" to encourage the use of electric blowers and mowers. Specific local actions included approval of a lease amendment for the Office of the Solicitor-General to increase office and parking space through 2028.

The Board also reviewed a rezoning request for a high-density residential development along the Northeast Expressway and a tree-trimming easement for a utility company in the Lithonia area. Other major discussions included a potential moratorium on new hangar development at PDK Airport and a new ordinance to provide better oversight of construction-related blasting.

Avondale Estates Downtown Development Authority - Regular Meeting
February 10, 2026 at 12:00 AM
The DDA focused on the execution of major downtown projects, transitioning from the planning phase to active development agreements. A key highlight was the discussion of a development agreement for 106 North Avondale Road (the "Artisans Village" site). This public-private partnership with Fabric Developers is slated to become a multi-story mixed-use anchor for the western end of downtown.

Other updates included a review of construction milestones for the new pavilion and market buildings on the town green that will house restaurants facing the park, and a status update on the "Road Diet" project, which involves narrowing car lanes to make room for wider sidewalks, bike lanes, and street trees on N Avondale Rd. between Ashton Place and Clarendon Avenue.

The Authority emphasized its goal of attracting unique local shops rather than national chains to ensure the new downtown area serves as a distinct destination.

DeKalb County Committee of the Whole
Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 9:00 AM
Key agenda items include a review of the 2026 annual budget and several significant policy updates. The committee will discuss a lease agreement for office and parking space for the Office of the Solicitor-General at 160 Clairemont Avenue, seeking to extend the lease through 2028 and add more office space.

Broader county initiatives include a $22.2 million contract extension for Lifeline Animal Project to operate the county animal shelter, a $49.75 million contract for sewer infrastructure assessment, and the implementation plan for the "DeKalb County Day Center" to address homelessness. The committee is also considering several new ordinances: a county-wide moratorium extension on sexual device sales, updated regulations for data centers, and a "Chronic Nuisance" ordinance allowing the county to close properties with repeated criminal activity. Other proposals include new maintenance standards for vacant buildings, a construction-related blasting ordinance, and a Water Customer Bill of Rights.

Additional items include funding for artistic crosswalks and path markings along the Stone Mountain Trail, equipment purchases for a county landfill, a tree trim easement for a county-owned parcel in Lithonia, and various contracts for the upcoming 2026 election cycle. The meeting will also include the official retirement of K-9 Argo from the Police Services department.

We’ve got a few big-ticket renovations on the books this week, including a massive interior overhaul on Columbia Drive and some apartment updates over in Avondale Estates. If you live near Avondale Hills, watch for electrical contractors—they’re finally adding those EV chargers to the parking deck.

Notable Permits
- Columbia Dr (Residential): $279,238 – A major project involving new interior renovations, a relocated staircase, and a significant expansion of both the first floor and the deck. They’re also finishing out the second-floor attic space.
- 8 Apt Rd, Avondale Estates (Apartment): $97,500 – Substantial interior repairs for unit 8D, including new drywall, insulation, electrical wiring, flooring, and paint.
- Rupert Rd (Residential): $75,000 – A full kitchen and bathroom renovation, including new fixtures, cabinets, and flooring.
- Avondale Hills Apt Complex (Parking Deck): Adding EV chargers to 6 parking spaces on the bottom level. Work includes installing a new panel, meter, and three separate pedestal mounts for the chargers.

Other Activity
There were 11 additional minor permits issued this week, including 7 single-family detached projects and 4 residential tree removals, with a combined value of $60,991.

Our neighbors have been busy on the 311 app this week. Here is the latest on what’s being reported around town:

- Street Signs: Issues with signage reported at Oakhurst Park, the Decatur Recreation Department, McKoy Park, and S Columbia Dr.
- City Facilities Maintenance: Maintenance requests were filed for city-owned properties at 352–398 Adair St, Sycamore St, and Oakview Rd.
- Sidewalk Maintenance: Reports of crumbling or hazardous sidewalks on W Ponce de Leon Ave, the 400 block of E College Ave, and Griffin Cir.
- Feedback on Staff/Service: Two reports were filed regarding city staff interactions at the intersection of Commerce Dr & E Ponce de Leon Ave and on Peavine Creek Ct.
- Code Violations: Neighbors reported potential violations on Melrose Ave and S Candler St.
- Animal Complaints (Deceased): A request for deceased animal removal was filed on the 400 block of Landover Dr.
- Pothole: A new pothole was reported on Avery St.
- Missed Sanitation Collection: A resident on Dogwood Way reported a missed pickup.
- Traffic Signal Issue: A signal malfunction was reported on E Ponce de Leon Ave.
- Street Maintenance: General road maintenance requested on Ridgeland Ave.
- Tree Maintenance Request: A request for tree care/pruning was filed on Westchester Dr.

Traffic
Expect long-term lane reconfigurations and "road diet" projects on several of our main thoroughfares.
- SR 10 (SR 155 to Arcadia Ave/Lakeshore Dr): Major "road transformation" underway to install center left-turn lanes and a protected two-way cycle track.
- US 278 (Sams Crossing to Ashton Place): Reconfiguring from five lanes down to three to make the stretch more pedestrian-friendly.
- Downtown Avondale Estates: Multi-modal improvements are active at three separate locations to enhance bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
- Laredo Drive & N Clarendon Ave: Sidewalk and pedestrian enhancement work is ongoing to improve "Vulnerable Road User" connectivity.
- Atlanta Ave & Adair Street: Watch for realignment work near the CSX railroad crossing.

DeKalb County (Water & Sanitation)
- Grant Drive Water Main Replacement: This massive project kicked off earlier this month and is scheduled to run through August. Crews are replacing 6,600 feet of pipeline; expect significant noise and traffic on Grant Drive and surrounding side streets between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
- Scott Boulevard Phase III Extensions: Several road closures related to this project have been extended through February 28, including:
- Livingstone Place (between E College Ave and Craigie Ave) – Full closure.
- Craigie Avenue (between Livingstone Pl and Brown Pl) – Partial closure.
- North Carter Road (between Forrest Blvd and Chester Way) – Closure extended.
- Lead Pipe Inventory: The county is asking residents to help identify private water service lines. If you haven't yet, they want you to check your pipes and report the material via their online "Check Your Line" survey.

Georgia Power
- Rate Discussions: Ongoing hearings at the Public Service Commission regarding grid expansions for data centers are making headlines. While there's no local outage scheduled for Decatur this week, activists are pushing for more transparency on how these expansion costs will hit residential bills later this year.

This week, Decatur celebrates Fat Tuesday with a "Big Easy" party and hosts several major cultural events, including a conversation between Ben Crump and Stacey Abrams at Brave and Kind Books and a significant author appearance by J.R. Ward at First Baptist Church of Decatur.

Tuesday, February 17
- $5 Beer + Trivia Tuesdays in Avondale | Wild Heaven Beer |
- Eddie's Attic Songwriters Open Mic Night | Eddie's Attic | 12:30 AM
- Channelle Desamours with Nic Stone - They Call Her Regret! | Little Shop of Stories | 7:00 PM
- The Balancing Act by Nedra Glover Tawwab | Decatur Library | 7:00 PM
- Dr. Jackson & Friends | Eddie's Attic | 7:30 PM
- THE BIG EASY PARTY - FAT TUESDAY | Decatur | 10:00 PM

Wednesday, February 18
- Olivia Jackson & Julie Olivia - Hunter's Treasure | Eagle Eye Book Shop |
- Conversations Event with Nedra Tawwab | First Baptist Church of Decatur |
- Sons of Town Hall Return to Atlanta | Eddie's Attic | 7:00 PM
- BEN CRUMP in Conversation with Stacey Abrams | Brave and Kind Books | 7:00 PM

Thursday, February 19
- Stacia Stark & Naima Simone - We Who Will Die | Eagle Eye Book Shop |
- Birding Lecture Series: Visualizing Bird Song | Woodlands Garden | 10:30 AM
- The DripTones | Eddie's Attic | 7:00 PM
- Cody Webb LIVE at Eddie's Attic | Eddie's Attic | 9:00 PM

Friday, February 20
- Live Music: Fisheye at 6 pm | Wild Heaven Beer |
- The Spanish Tragedy | Pythagoras Masonic Temple |
- Hudson Macready & Emmy Moyen | Eddie's Attic | 7:00 PM
- Tacos & Tequila Weekend | The Marlay House | 10:00 PM
- Candlelight: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac | The Chapel on Sycamore | 11:30 PM

Saturday, February 21
- Movie Nights at Wild Heaven | Wild Heaven Beer |
- Crown of War and Shadow: An Afternoon with J.R. Ward | First Baptist Church of Decatur | 2:00 PM
- Charis Annual Pre-Inventory Sale!! 20% OFF EVERYTHING! | Charis Books and More | 3:00 PM
- Siamese Dream: The Smashing Pumpkins Tribute | Eddie's Attic | 5:30 PM
- Daddy and Me Dance | Decatur | 9:00 PM

Sunday, February 22
- Field Trip: Urban Wildlife Safari at Clyde Shepard | Downtown Decatur |
- Swamptooth & Georgia Mountain String Band Concert | Waller's Coffee Shop | 4:00 PM
- Reel Friends: A Live Charity Reading of The Princess Bride | Avon Theater | 5:00 PM
- 2026 Unity Jazz First Sunday Jazz Series | Waller's Coffee Shop | 6:00 PM