VaHi / Morningside: Million-Dollar Glow-Ups, Phone Bans, and Boozy Blossoms

Good morning, VaHi and Morningside! We’re dodging the "pollen-geddon" today with news of a multi-million dollar neighborhood makeover and the potential end of the "school day scroll" for local students.

- Big Stories — From historic retail spa days to a potential TikTok-free zone at Midtown High, we’re breaking down the week’s biggest headlines.
- Upcoming Events — Whether you’re into geeky science expos at Piedmont Park or sipping vanilla bourbon in the garden, your social calendar is officially booked.
- Local Government Discussion — We’ve got the tea on APS personality tests, a long-overdue parking fee hike, and the 14-story tower debate keeping NPU-F busy.
- Development & Construction Nearby — New eats are coming to Cheshire Bridge, but you’ll want to watch out for bridge repairs and roundabout chaos on your commute.

Let's dive in.

BIG STORIES

Atlanta developer invests millions in Virginia-Highland's historic retail district (March 11, 2026) Our favorite corner of Virginia-Highland is getting a major glow-up. Third & Urban just unveiled plans to pour millions into the historic retail cluster near North Highland and St. Charles, focusing on refreshing the vibe while keeping that old-school charm. Expect some much-needed TLC for the storefronts we walk past every single day—it’s basically a spa day for the neighborhood’s architecture.

Could Atlanta high schoolers soon lose phone access during the school day? (March 13, 2026) Brace yourself: the era of the "school day scroll" might be coming to an end for Midtown High students. APS is seriously weighing a total ban on phone use during class hours to help kids actually focus on, you know, algebra instead of TikTok. Parents are split on this one, but your teenager’s reaction is likely exactly what you’d expect—pure, unadulterated horror.

Where to drink cherry blossom-inspired cocktails around Atlanta (March 14, 2026) If you’re going to suffer through the "pollen-geddon" that just coated your car in yellow dust, you might as well have a themed drink in your hand. The cherry blossoms are officially peaking, and local spots are leaning in with floral-infused cocktails that look almost too pretty to sip. It’s a very "Atlanta" way to celebrate spring—sneezing, but make it fancy.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Grab your lab coats and clear your Saturday because the Atlanta Science Festival Exploration Expo is taking over Piedmont Park! This is the grand finale discovery day you've been waiting for, bringing thousands of curious minds to the Meadow for a massive celebration of all things STEM right in our backyard.

Monday, March 16
- HOBNOB March Madness Watch Party | Hobnob Neighborhood Tavern
- Fresh Plates Dinner Series: Registration | Atlanta Botanical Garden

Tuesday, March 17
- St. Patrick's Day | Neighbor's
- St. Patrick's Day | Dark Horse Tavern
- Meet Author & Chef Ron Hsu | Virginia Highland Books
- Weekly Walking Club | Piedmont Park
- Garden Playtime | Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Sprouting Scientists | Atlanta Botanical Garden
- The Sophs with special guest Recess Party | Smith's Olde Bar

Wednesday, March 18
- From Bloom to Bourbon: Vanilla Mixology | Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Storybook Time | Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Japanese Bangers | Red Light Cafe
- The Missing Peace with support from Nocturne's Kiss | Smith's Olde Bar
- Bloodsports, Coma Therapy, Strumbrush, Boycat | MJQ Concourse

Thursday, March 19
- Tulips at Twilight | Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Garden Grooves | Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Figure Drawing - 3/19 | Piedmont Park
- Wednesday Jazz Jam - Gordon Vernick Quartet | Red Light Cafe
- Valories with Special Guests Aaron Rizzo + Caroline Reilly | Smith's Olde Bar
- Scattrbrain | MJQ Concourse
- Drop-In Garden Tours | Atlanta Botanical Garden

Friday, March 20
- Odd Mob at District Atlanta | District Atlanta
- Piedmont Passions: Creative Writing x Lost in the Letters | Piedmont Park
- Caroline Jones | Smith's Olde Bar
- Bay Faction: Year of the Dog Tour with NUFFER | Smith's Olde Bar
- Mudcat & the Redeemers | Blind Willie's Blues Club
- TUFF ATL | Universe

Saturday, March 21
- 2026 Atlanta Science Festival Exploration Expo | Piedmont Park
- We Shake, We Shine! Concert | Druid Hills Presbyterian Church
- Piedmont Park Nature Photography Meetup | Piedmont Park
- ROCK DOWN SOUTH Feat. Dalton Dover & Friends | Smith's Olde Bar
- Jake Sayer & Friends with Dirty 930 | Smith's Olde Bar
- Deorro | District Atlanta

Sunday, March 22
- XION Saturday w/ Jeremy Dava at 2069 Events | 2069 Events

LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISCUSSION

Atlanta Public Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

The APS Board of Education skipped the usual boardroom drama this past week and headed to Pittsburgh Yards for a two-day retreat on March 13 and 14. This wasn't a "vote-and-go" session; instead, it was a deep dive into how the board functions and where the district is headed over the next decade and a half. While the official minutes haven’t been posted yet, the agenda makes it clear they are trying to fix some "housekeeping" issues before the next big push.

In a move that feels very "corporate HR," the board spent a chunk of Friday digging into "Strengths Finder" assessments and the "Five Languages of Work Appreciation." It might sound a bit touchy-feely, but the goal is to stop any internal friction and figure out how to work together as a cohesive unit. They also discussed how to standardize the way they talk to and engage with the public—which, let’s be honest, is usually where things get the most heated.

But here’s the thing: they aren’t just thinking about the next grading period. On Saturday, the focus shifted to the "Instructional Core," which is bureaucratic-speak for "making sure the kids can actually read and are ready for life after graduation." Specifically, they looked at strategies for accelerated literacy and college/career readiness.

Also worth noting: the board is knee-deep in "APS Forward 2040," the district’s massive long-term strategic plan. This is the roadmap for what Atlanta schools will look like 14 years from now. If you've got a toddler in the house, this is the plan that will define their entire K-12 experience, and the board is currently fine-tuning how they’ll hold themselves accountable to those 2040 goals.

Atlanta City Council

Discussion from the Past Week

The city’s checkbook was wide open this week as officials moved to shore up everything from aging pipes to the city's "look" ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Finance Committee greenlit a massive $1.25 billion bond issuance to refinance debt and fund critical repairs to our drinking water and sewer systems. It’s a staggering number, but for a city that has spent much of the last few years dealing with high-profile water main breaks, it’s essentially the cost of keeping the taps running.

Speaking of costs, prepare to dig a little deeper for that curbside spot. The Transportation Committee moved forward with the first on-street parking fee increase in 15 years, jumping from $1.00 to $1.75 per half-hour. Officials say the hike isn't just a cash grab; it’s meant to cover the rising costs of managing the program. Meanwhile, the city is entering "company’s coming" mode for the World Cup, approving $34 million for "aesthetic restoration" at the airport—think new carpets, ceiling tiles, and power washing—plus $7.6 million for anti-drone technology to keep the skies secure during the matches.

On the "nosy neighbor" front, the city is getting serious about who is sleeping next door. The Community Development Committee discussed creating a dedicated Office of Short-Term Rentals. This new department would centralize the policing of platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, requiring them to verify that a host actually has a city permit before they can list a property.

But here’s the thing: while the city is looking at your rental permits, the Council is also looking at its own receipts. A major investigation was launched into $910,000 in consulting payments made to a former Municipal Clerk for work related to the Public Safety Training Center referendum—work that Council members suspect may never have happened. This effort to increase accountability ties into a proposed Charter amendment (which we'll see again in next week's meetings) that would require every piece of legislation to have a specific Council member's name on it, so you know exactly who to thank—or blame—for new laws.

Finally, in a move that will delight local bargain hunters, the Public Safety Committee is modernizing "happy hour." A new ordinance would allow bars and restaurants to offer drink discounts of up to 50%, though "all you can drink" specials remain strictly off the menu.

Most notable to your neighborhood:

Meetings in the Next Week
- Committee on Council (March 16, 2026, at 11:30 AM) – The committee will discuss hiring outside counsel for the $910,000 "Foris Webb III" payment investigation and vote on a Charter amendment requiring primary sponsors for all legislation. They will also consider appointing Aisha Thomas, Esq. to the Board of Zoning Adjustment.
- Atlanta City Council (March 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM) – The full body will convene for final votes on the "South Downtown Open Container District," massive rezonings for "The Works" expansion on the Upper Westside, and three independent performance audits. Significant developments at Logan Circle and Chattahoochee Avenue NW are on the docket for final approval.

Fulton County Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

The Board of Education had a busy Tuesday, primarily focusing on how to spend—and save—your tax dollars. First up, the Board officially broke up with the East Point Tax Allocation District (TAD). In plain English: the district decided it would rather keep its full share of future property tax gains for the general school fund instead of letting that money be diverted to fund development projects in East Point. It’s a move that signals the Board is prioritizing its own checkbook as budget season approaches.

Meanwhile, the "Central Office" is getting a bit leaner. The Board moved forward with a "reduction in force" specifically targeting administrative positions. While nobody likes to talk about layoffs, the goal here is to shift resources away from the bureaucracy and (hopefully) toward the classrooms. This comes just as the district reviewed its 2026-2027 enrollment projections, which are the "crystal ball" staff use to decide how many teachers and buses each neighborhood actually needs for the next school year.

But here's the thing for the nosy neighbors: The Board is currently refining a new policy (FEAE) regarding how they involve the community in project planning. This policy will govern how you get notified—and how much say you actually have—when the district decides to build or renovate a school nearby. It was discussed in the pre-work session and is clearly intended to streamline the often-contentious process of school construction.

Also worth noting: High schoolers might soon have a more practical elective on their schedules. The board is fast-tracking a new AP Business with Personal Finance course. They also approved a massive list of housekeeping contracts, including a district-wide summer painting project and a major upgrade to the school system's internet and wireless network.

Finally, keep an eye on a few policy "first reads" that just hit the table. The Board is looking at updating rules on everything from employee political activities to how "controversial issues" are handled in the classroom. These aren't law yet, but they are officially moving through the pipeline.

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Education, March 19 at 6:00 PM. This is slated to be a voting session at the South Learning Center where the Board will likely finalize the budget calendar and approve various personnel and maintenance contracts discussed during the March 10 work sessions.

Atlanta NPU

Discussion from the Past Week

In a meeting that felt more like a "shout it from the rooftops" moment for local commerce, the NPU-F delegates spent considerable time diving into the $3 million "Atkins Park Collection" project. Developer Third & Urban officially unveiled plans to breathe new life into a massive 61,000-square-foot stretch of retail along North Highland. This isn't just a fresh coat of paint; we're talking about a complete reimagining of the long-vacant storefronts that have been a bit of an eyesore for the otherwise bustling corridor. The goal? Creating a community-focused "indoor-outdoor courtyard" that will serve as a magnetic hub for the neighborhood. After years of looking at empty windows, the sentiment in the "room" was a mix of relief and "it’s about time."

But here’s the thing: while the retail news was mostly cheers, the discussion shifted to a much more contentious proposal that has some neighbors checking the heights of their own roofs. Selig Enterprises is moving forward with early discussions for a 14-story tower on the corner of Ponce and Bonaventure. With 375 units on the table, the sheer scale of the project is already raising eyebrows. The debate this week centered on how a building that tall fits into the "village" vibe of VaHi, with several residents noting that while they want density, they don't necessarily want a skyscraper looking into their backyard.

Meanwhile, the usual suspects of neighborhood maintenance also got some airtime. There was a brief but necessary update on the Monroe Drive and 10th Street intersection. While the "major" construction detours are largely in our rearview mirror, the NPU discussed the final aesthetic and signal timing tweaks that are still ongoing to ensure the crossing isn't just safe, but actually functional for the thousands of pedestrians heading toward Piedmont Park.

Most notable to your neighborhood:

Other routine matters, including three minor residential variances for rear-deck expansions and one sidewalk repair request in Morningside, were approved in aggregate with little fanfare.

Fulton County Board of Commissioners

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Commissioners March 18, 2026 at 10:00 AM — The commissioners are looking to drop a cool $300 million toward a new $900 million hospital in South Fulton and authorize a $325 million "cash advance" (Tax Anticipation Notes) to keep the county running until property tax checks start rolling in. Closer to home, they’ll be discussing the persistent vacancy in the District 4 seat—which represents VaHi and Morningside—and voting on a 3% cost-of-living bump for retirees. Also on the table: $975,000 for domestic violence survivors, a "blitz" report on jail maintenance issues, and a handful of sewer and water easement approvals for new residential developments in North and South Fulton. Meanwhile, a resolution on voter ID education is back for a vote after being held up since the March 4th meeting.

DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION NEARBY

Permits
- 1886 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE — Big news for the neighborhood! A 3,400-square-foot commercial space is being converted into a brand-new restaurant. We’re always happy to see more life (and food) returning to Cheshire Bridge.
- 650 Montgomery Ferry Rd NE — Heads up near the school grounds; they’re installing an underground fire main to prep for a new building. Expect some digging and construction equipment on-site as the campus grows.
- 400 Park Dr NE — Eight generators are being staged over at Piedmont Park. It looks like someone is prepping for a high-power event, so watch out for a bit of extra humming in the air this week.
- Sussex Rd NE — A major residential overhaul is coming to Morningside. This project involves a full attic extension and renovation of a 3-bedroom home. It sounds like they're literally raising the roof on this one!
- 1146 Sheridan Rd NE — A tenant refresh is underway with new walls, flooring, and millwork. It’s a "minor renovation," but it usually means a fresh face is getting ready to open for business.
- 1155 La Vista Rd NE — Safety first! This commercial spot is getting a full upgrade to its fire sprinkler and standpipe systems. We love a business that stays up to code.
- 530 Piedmont Ave NE — Get ready for the smell of hot tar. A multi-family building is getting a total roof tear-down and a brand-new TPO system. It’ll be noisy, but at least they’ll be dry.
- Arborist Alerts — We also spotted 24 separate permits for dead or hazardous tree removals across the area. If you hear a chainsaw this week, that’s likely why — our canopy is getting a little trim.

Road Work

Under Construction
- SR 13 from SR 9 to North Fork Peachtree Creek — Our stretch of the Buford Spring Connector is finally getting some love. It hasn't been resurfaced since 2012, so crews are out there fixing the rough pavement. Watch for lane shifts if you're heading toward Piedmont Heights or Lindridge-Martin Manor.
- I-85 from I-75 to North of Lenox Road — They’re swapping out the old, dim orange lighting for energy-efficient LEDs. This covers the whole corridor bordering Morningside, so expect some late-night shoulder or lane closures while they swap the poles and wiring.
- Buford Spring Connector @ I-85 Tunnel — More lighting upgrades! This project specifically targets the tunnel area, replacing the outdated HPS fixtures with LEDs. It’s a quick fix that should make that merge feel a lot safer at night.
- SR 9 from SR 3 to N of Paces Ferry Rd — This major resurfacing project is active just north of the neighborhood. If your commute takes you up Peachtree toward Buckhead, heads up: they’re smoothing out the roadway to fix a low pavement rating, which usually means some daytime congestion.
- SR 236 & Shepherds Ln Signal Upgrade — Just across the county line near the edge of Morningside, crews are working on signal upgrades at Lavista Road. It’s a small footprint, but keep your eyes peeled for bucket trucks if you're heading toward the Emory area.

Construction Work Program
- SR 13 @ Monroe Drive — Heads up, Ansley Mall regulars! That awkward intersection where Monroe meets Buford Highway is slated to become a multi-lane/hybrid roundabout. It’ll be a learning curve for everyone, but it’s aimed at fixing the current chaos near the park.
- I-85 / SR 237 (Piedmont Rd) & I-285 / SR 13 Tunnel Lighting — Crews will be brightening things up in the tunnels near the Buford Spring/Piedmont interchange. This spans both Fulton and DeKalb, so expect some late-night lane closures once they start swapping out the bulbs.
- I-85 from the Brookwood Interchange to SR 155 — This is the big one. A massive resurfacing and maintenance project is coming to the stretch between the Connector and North Druid Hills. It spans Fulton and DeKalb and will definitely add some "scenic" time to your morning commute.
- SR 237 (Piedmont Rd) @ CSX Railroad — We’ve got a full bridge replacement coming to this stretch of Piedmont near Lindridge-Martin Manor. If you usually zip through here to get to Lindbergh, you'll want to keep an eye out for detour signs.
- SR 237 (Piedmont Rd) @ Lambert Drive — They’re installing "flush curbs" right near the SR 13 ramp. It’s a minor tweak, but keep your eyes peeled for workers near the edge of the road while you're merging.
- SR 237 (Piedmont Rd) @ Peachtree Creek — Double trouble here: GDOT is planning both a rehab and a full replacement for the bridges crossing the creek. This is a major artery for Morningside and Lindridge, so expect this to be a primary "headache zone" once work begins.
- Atlanta BeltLine Northeast Trail (Lindbergh Center to I-85) — This is the update we love to see! A 14-foot wide concrete shared-use path is officially in the "getting ready" phase. It’ll eventually connect Lindbergh down toward the highway, making our neighborhood even more walkable.
- SR 237 (Piedmont Rd) @ Lindbergh Drive — A brand new signal and improved pedestrian facilities are in the works for this intersection. It’s about to get a lot safer to navigate on foot, even if the construction might slow down your drive to the Target shopping center for a bit.

Utility Work

Atlanta Watershed
- Emergency Road Closure on Juniper Street NE — If you’re heading through Midtown or coming from the Ansley Park side, keep in mind that Juniper Street is under construction between 10th and 11th Streets for emergency sewer mainline repairs.
- Emergency Intersection Closure at 10th St NW and Hemphill Ave — A heads up for anyone crossing over toward the Westside: the intersection at 10th and Hemphill is closed for a major valve replacement project. It’s a big fix, so expect some extra congestion if you're traveling west of the connector.

Service Requests
- Potholes — Spotted on Crestridge Dr NE. Keep those eyes peeled and your tires safe, neighbors!
- Downed Tree — Reported on N Highland Ave NE. Mind the debris if you’re heading through the heart of the Highlands today.