East Atlanta: Row 900 Breaks Ground and Popular Comedy Show Returns

Welcome to this week’s update for East Atlanta. We’re highlighting major milestones for transit-oriented development and the exciting return of a favorite local comedy series to the Village.

Big Stories — Major redevelopments are moving forward with groundbreakings near the new MARTA line. Plus, the city is ramping up for the 2026 World Cup while a popular comedy series returns to Argosy.

Upcoming Events — Get ready for the Wanderlust Market at the EAV Farmers Market and a historic tree tour through Grant Park this weekend. Music lovers have a packed schedule with shows at The Eastern, 529, and The EARL.

Local Government Discussion — Local officials are finalizing 2026 budgets, debating a parking fee increase, and proposing new regulations for short-term rentals. Additionally, several Southeast Atlanta properties are being considered for annexation into the city.

Development & Construction Nearby — New residential duplexes are moving forward in Reynoldstown while commercial renovations continue along Glenwood. On the roads, watch for I-20 concrete rehabilitation and major realignment work at the Glenwood and Moreland intersection.

Let’s dive in.

Groundbreaking nears for project ‘The Row 900’ on new MARTA line (February 27, 2026)
Construction is set to begin on "The Row 900," a new residential development located just steps from the upcoming Summerhill Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line. This project represents a major milestone in transit-oriented development for the Capitol Gateway and Grant Park areas, offering residents high-frequency transit access directly to downtown.

Squids N Giggles Comedy Show Returns to Argosy in East Atlanta Village (February 23, 2026)
The popular "Squids N Giggles" comedy series has officially returned to the back room of Argosy, a staple of the East Atlanta Village nightlife scene. The recurring event continues to provide a local platform for Atlanta's burgeoning comedy talent and reinforces the neighborhood's reputation as a destination for alternative entertainment.

World Cup Festival Across 17 Miles of the Beltline (February 25, 2026) A massive summer festival has been announced for locations across 17 miles of the trail network, promising coordinated fan events and activities to celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Chair Robb Pitts says Fulton County financial position is strong (February 25, 2026)
During the annual State of the County address, Chairman Robb Pitts reported that Fulton County maintains a AAA bond rating and a steady property tax rate despite ongoing economic pressures. For local homeowners in the East Atlanta area, this financial stability suggests that essential county services and public infrastructure projects will remain adequately funded through the coming fiscal year.

This week features the Wanderlust Market at the East Atlanta Village Farmers Market on Saturday, offering a curated selection of local handmade goods and creations. Additionally, on Sunday morning, residents can join the Phoenix Flies Tree Tour in Grant Park to explore the neighborhood's unique history, architecture, and canopy trails.

Monday, March 02
- Vicious Rumors, Paladin, and Jaeger | 529 Bar |

Wednesday, March 04
- The Deslondes | The EARL |
- Rich Brian | The Eastern |

Thursday, March 05
- Keeper for a Day: Elephants | Zoo Atlanta |
- Daisychain | The EARL |
- Alchemical String Theory | 529 EAV|

Friday, March 06
- Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue | The Eastern |
- The Pentagram String Band | 529 EAV|
- Cash Langdon | The EARL |

Saturday, March 07
- Adventure Cubs at the Zoo | Zoo Atlanta |
- Wanderlust Market: Handmade Goods and Local Creations! | East Atlanta Village Farmers Market |
- Artistic Inspirations from "James" by Percival Everett - Part 2 | Buteco |
- COMEDY MATINEE | 529 EAV |
- Machine Girl | The Eastern |
- Weeping Wound | 529 EAV |
- Gunga | The EARL |
- FunkMaysons in East | Southern Feedstore |

Sunday, March 08
- Phoenix Flies Tree Tour: Trees, Trails, History, and Architecture of Grant Park | Grant Park |
- Portraits of An Apparition | The EARL |
- Blax | The Pub @ EAV |

Atlanta Public Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
The Board of Education and its various committees moved forward on several major policy and financial fronts this week. Most notably, the Board gave final approval to updated safety protocols (Policy EBB), revised school admission standards (Policy JBC), and new rules governing public access to school facilities (Policy KM). On the financial side, the Board approved revised budgets for BuildSmart Capital Projects funded by SPLOST 2022. This action adjusts "price tags" for district-wide renovations and construction to account for shifting material costs and project scopes, ensuring that ongoing construction remains fully funded.

The Budget Commission also held its first deep dive into the upcoming fiscal year’s development cycle. Discussions focused heavily on "Caring for Every Child," with specific emphasis on funding for "Exceptional Children" (Special Education) and Student Support Services, including school counseling and mental health resources. This budgetary focus mirrors a district-wide presentation on "Increasing Student Access to Trusted Adults," which highlighted mentorship as a key driver for student emotional and academic success.

In leadership news, the Board Development Committee elected Dr. Kaycee Brock as its new Chair. The committee is currently finalizing a new Community Engagement Plan and preparing for an upcoming Board Retreat to set long-term strategic goals for the district.

Other topics:
The Board approved several large-scale contracts, including the adoption of new K-12 instructional materials and HVAC upgrades at Centennial Academy (NW). The Student Advisory Council met to prepare for "Crossover Day" at the Georgia State Capitol, where student leaders will advocate for educational legislation. The Board also officially recognized National School Social Work Week and Women’s History Month.

DeKalb County Board of Commissioners

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
The Board moved to finalize the 2026 Annual Budget, establishing the county’s financial priorities for the coming year. Significant public safety and infrastructure investments were approved, headlined by a $49.7 million contract for ongoing sewer condition assessments and rehabilitation as part of the county’s federal Consent Decree work. The Board also committed $22.2 million to continue animal shelter operations through 2027 via a contract extension with Lifeline Animal Project.

The meeting saw the introduction or advancement of several major regulatory updates. This includes a new "Chronic Nuisance" ordinance allowing the county to close properties with repeated violations and a "Vacant Property" ordinance requiring owners of empty buildings to adhere to strict maintenance standards and obtain "board-up" permits. Additionally, the Board moved to extend a county-wide moratorium on new applications for businesses selling or distributing sexual devices.

Significant steps were taken regarding social services, specifically the adoption of an "Unhoused Support and Services Plan." This includes a formal implementation plan for a new DeKalb County Day Center designed to provide resources for residents experiencing homelessness. The Board also addressed modern infrastructure by updating text amendments to regulate the development of data centers within the county.

Other topics:
The Board authorized $200,000 for the “Reimagining the Stone Mountain Trail” project, which will fund artistic crosswalks and path markings along the cultural corridor. Other approved items included a lease extension for the Office of the Solicitor-General in Decatur, a contract for critical repairs to the Courthouse Parking Deck, and an agreement with the City of Tucker for pedestrian trail and parking improvements.

Meetings in the Next Week
- Committee of the Whole, March 03, 2026 at 9:00 AM
- Planning Commission, March 03, 2026 at 6:00 PM: The commission will review 14 new cases, including proposals for a cottage home development, a townhome community, and several multi-family and senior housing projects. Other items include requests for a new convenience store with fuel pumps, a recycling plant, and the renewal of a childcare institution permit. All recommendations from this meeting will proceed to the Board of Commissioners for a final vote on March 26.

Atlanta City Council

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
The council moved forward with several major infrastructure and regulatory policy changes this week. A central focus was the "Integrated Atlanta: Wi-Fi World Cup Initiative," which includes contracts with Georgia Power and Comcast to install smart streetlight infrastructure and enhanced digital connectivity in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In terms of local regulation, the council discussed creating a centralized "Office of Short-Term Rentals" to streamline the permitting and enforcement of platforms like Airbnb. Additionally, a significant proposal to increase on-street metered parking fees from $1.00 to $1.75 per half-hour was advanced to help fund city transportation goals.

In development policy, the Zoning Committee moved to prohibit new self-storage facilities and distribution centers within the Beltline Overlay District, aiming to prioritize walkable, high-density development along the corridor. The city also decided to push the effective date of its "Cool Roofs" ordinance to June 2027, citing supply chain shortages for high-reflectivity materials. Public safety discussions focused on "Alcohol Regulation Reform," including a proposal to allow "Happy Hour" promotions (up to 50% off) citywide and the creation of a downtown "Entertainment District" where outdoor consumption would be permitted to support area revitalization.

Most notable to your neighborhood:
Multiple items directly impacted the East Atlanta and Grant Park areas. The council reviewed the annexation of a large cluster of properties in Southeast Atlanta—including parcels on Sargent Avenue SE, Smith Street SE, Ford Street SE, Orange Blossom Terrace SE, Young Street SE, Gynn Drive SE, Bouldercrest Drive SE, and Eastland Road SE—into the city and the Atlanta Independent School System. In the Kirkwood/East Atlanta border area, the Kirkwood Urban Forest Preserve is slated to be renamed the "Williamson Urban Forest" to honor a local advocate, and a distance requirement waiver was discussed for 1675 Memorial Drive SE to allow for a renovated retail package store.

In Grant Park, a proposal was introduced to remove the Abana Courtyard from Zoo Atlanta’s lease, returning control to the city to create a public seating plaza for the community. South of the village, rezonings for high-density projects at 235 and 249 Milton Avenue SE (a 248-unit development) and a single-family reconstruction at 1607 Lakewood Avenue SE were considered.

Other topics:
The council authorized $24 million for water and wastewater program management and $4.87 million for an E911 system upgrade. There were also discussions regarding renaming Fulton Street SW to "J. Lowell Ware Boulevard" and a request for the Atlanta Police Department to prioritize community diversion programs over custodial arrests for low-level offenses to ease jail overcrowding.

Meetings in the Next Week
- Committee on Council March 02, 2026 at 11:30 AM: This meeting will cover internal operations, including a resolution to accept a $1,000 facility donation from Zoo Atlanta at 800 Cherokee Ave SE for a council retreat and a charter amendment to streamline the process for filling vacancies on city boards.
- Atlanta City Council March 02, 2026 at 1:00 PM: The full council will consider final votes on the parking fee increase, the World Cup Wi-Fi initiative, and the creation of the Office of Short-Term Rentals. Specific neighborhood items include a final vote on the 1675 Memorial Drive SE retail exemption and a first reading for a 47-unit multifamily development at 78 and 88 Howard Street NE.

Fulton County Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items
The Board held a retreat to focus on long-term strategic planning, specifically regarding the district’s financial and physical infrastructure. Key discussions centered on the preliminary FY2027 Budget and the Capital Plan 2027, which outlines upcoming construction, renovations, and facility improvements across the district. Additionally, the Board reviewed the Capital Plan 2032, a long-range roadmap specifically dedicated to classroom technology and the district’s digital infrastructure. Because this was a retreat session, no formal votes were taken, but these items will likely appear on future regular meeting agendas for official action.

Other topics
The Board received training on the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), Georgia’s accountability system for measuring school performance. Members also discussed the UVA District Transformation partnership, which focuses on leadership development and school turnaround strategies, and received a briefing on pending state and federal legislation that could impact district operations.

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Education, March 04, 2026, time TBA. An official agenda is not yet available for this meeting, but it is expected to include regular monthly reports on district operations, financial updates, and potential follow-ups from the February retreat.

Fulton County Board of Commissioners

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Commissioners March 04, 2026 at 10:00 AM. The Board will consider over $800,000 in municipal grants for infrastructure and parks, a $2.4 million water main project in Johns Creek, and resolutions regarding hospital funding and property tax protections. Locally, the agenda includes an appropriation of $145,947.06 for capital improvements at Zoo Atlanta, located at 800 Cherokee Ave SE.

Permits

Keeping an eye on the changing landscape of our streets is a full-time job, but here are the highlights from the latest permit filings. We’re seeing a spike in new residential construction in Reynoldstown and some continued commercial movement along the Glenwood corridor.

- 193 Gibson St SE — New construction, a new duplex building in Reynoldstown designed with a zero lot line.
- 946 Cummings St SE — New construction, another new duplex building being subdivided for future sale.
- 1124 Wylie St SE — Commercial roofing permit, apartment building roof replacement (expect some noise in the area).
- 195 Chester Ave SE — Commercial permit, setting a construction trailer and temporary power pole to prep the site for upcoming work.
- 1133 Glenwood Ave SE — Commercial renovation, interior and exterior egress updates for an office building.
- 1188 Glenwood Ave SE — Commercial alteration, interior refreshes including new paint and flooring.
- 491 Flat Shoals Ave SE — Commercial electrical permit, finalizing work for a Certificate of Occupancy in the Village.
- 1039 Grant St SE — Commercial electrical permit, installing a 400A service to a suite.
- 1129 Memorial Dr SE — Commercial electrical permit, repairs to a service meter following recent vandalism.

In addition to these, there are 10 other notable commercial HVAC and electrical projects in the works totaling roughly $400,000. On the residential side, 48 minor permits were filed this week—mostly for tree removals and small plumbing or electrical repairs—valued at about $32,200 across the neighborhood.

Road Work

Keep your eyes on the road, neighbors! Between the BeltLine expansions and the usual highway upkeep, there is a lot of activity around East Atlanta and Grant Park right now. Here is the latest on the projects that might impact your commute or your afternoon walk:

- I-20 from Hill St to Columbia Dr — Under Construction. Crews are actively on-site for a concrete rehab and resurfacing project. They are working to improve the roadway's surface, so expect some traffic impacts as they smooth things out.
- SR 260/Glenwood Ave at Moreland Ave — Under Construction. This is a major one for those of us who navigate the Glenwood/Moreland intersection. Work is currently underway to realign Glenwood Avenue to finally eliminate that 70-foot offset. They are also adding a 12-foot shared-use lane to make the area more bike and pedestrian-friendly.
- I-20 at Moreland Ave/SR 42 — Under Construction. Operational improvements are happening now along Moreland between Memorial Drive and Faith Avenue. Crews are reconfiguring the area to help traffic flow more safely through the interchange.
- I-20 from Capitol Ave to Flat Shoals Rd — Under Construction. You’ll likely see crews working on the highway lighting. They are in the process of replacing the old fixtures with energy-efficient LEDs and updating poles and conduits along the corridor.
- SR 260 & I-20 Signal Upgrades — Under Construction. Work is happening now to upgrade signals and pedestrian facilities to meet ADA standards at two key spots: Glenwood Avenue at Clifton Street and Glenwood Avenue at Flat Shoals.
- SR 42/Moreland Ave Pedestrian Crossings — Under Construction. To make Moreland a bit safer to cross, crews are currently installing Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons at several spots, including near Faith Avenue, Sanders Avenue, and Custer Avenue.
- SR 260/Glenwood Ave at Brownwood Ave & Joseph Ave — Under Construction. Pedestrian safety work is active here as well, with crews on-site installing Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) to help neighbors cross Glenwood.
- BeltLine Southside Trail: Glenwood Ave to Woodward Ave — Construction Work Program. This exciting segment (Segment 6) is officially funded and approved! While you won’t see the bulldozers out quite yet, contracts are being finalized for the trail and the new bridge over I-20. Construction is imminent.
- BeltLine Southside Trail: Faith Ave to SR 154 — Construction Work Program. Much like the Glenwood segment, this portion of the Southside Trail is in the final stages of the pipeline. It is approved and funded, so expect work to start soon as the city prepares to bridge the gap over the interstate.

Service Requests

Here’s a look at the latest 311 activity across our neck of the woods in East Atlanta, Grant Park, and our neighboring streets:

- Potholes — Multiple reports are being addressed on Estoria St SE, Blvd SE, and Hill St & Woodward Ave, along with the intersection of Glenwood Ave & Chester Ave.
- Traffic Signal Repairs — Crews are working on signal issues at the intersections of Cherokee Ave & Georgia Ave, Cherokee Ave & Atlanta Ave, Flat Shoals Rd @ Fayetteville Rd, Moreland Ave & Memorial Dr, and Glenwood Ave & Bill Kennedy Way.
- Right of Way Overgrowth and Visibility — Maintenance is needed to clear overgrowth and improve visibility on Wylie St SE, Palatine Ave SE, and at the corner of Central Park Pl & N Ave.
- Litter and Graffiti Removal — Cleanup requests were filed for litter removal along I-20 W and graffiti removal at the intersection of Dekalb Ave & Moreland Ave.