West Midtown / Collier Hills: Atlantic Station High-Rise Reopens as School Transfer Glitch Hits Parents

Welcome to your weekly update for West Midtown and Collier Hills. This week, we’re covering the lifting of the evacuation order at Atlantic Station and a technical glitch affecting Fulton County school transfers.

Big Stories — Residents return to TWELVE Midtown after a major power outage, while Fulton County parents navigate a frustrating glitch in the school choice portal. We also look at Delta’s $5 million investment in Georgia Tech.

Local Business Updates — A new restaurant and bar concept is arriving at Atlantic Station, but the neighborhood bids farewell to Torchy’s Tacos on Howell Mill Road. Meanwhile, a London-based tech firm is expanding its local presence to support the film industry.

Upcoming Events — It’s a huge week for Georgia Tech athletics alongside the Oyster Crawfish Festival at Park Tavern and the Woodall’s 5th-anniversary party. Don't miss the community conversations regarding the Atlanta RiverLands project this Saturday.

Local Government Discussion — City Council is weighing a parking fee hike and World Cup infrastructure prep, while local NPUs discuss Phase II of The Works and the Underwood Hills Park bridge replacement. APS has also approved new safety policies and HVAC upgrades for Centennial Academy.

Development & Construction Nearby — Demolition is slated for Marietta Boulevard and new condo build-outs are moving forward on Huff Road. Commuters should prepare for resurfacing on Northside Drive and signal upgrades at several major Westside intersections.

Let’s dive in.

Parent frustrated with Fulton County school transfer glitch (February 26, 2026)
Local parents navigating the school choice process have faced significant hurdles this week due to a technical glitch in the Fulton County school transfer portal. This system error has stalled applications for families in our area who are trying to finalize their children's education plans for the upcoming academic year.

Evacuation order lifted at Atlantic Station high-rise after power outage, concerns for clean water (February 24, 2026)
Residents of the TWELVE Midtown high-rise were finally able to return home after a major power outage led to an evacuation over concerns regarding unpotable water. Fire officials cleared the building for re-entry on Tuesday, ending a significant disruption for many of our neighbors in the heart of Atlantic Station.

Westside Future Fund takes stock of affordable housing progress (February 24, 2026)
The Westside Future Fund provided a comprehensive update on its housing initiatives, which are critical for maintaining community stability in neighborhoods like Blandtown and the Marietta Street Artery. The organization reiterated its commitment to community retention, aiming to ensure long-term residents are not displaced by the rapid redevelopment occurring across West Midtown.

Delta's nonprofit invests $5 million in new Georgia Tech aerospace building (February 25, 2026)
The footprint of the Georgia Tech campus is set for another major expansion thanks to a $5 million pledge from Delta Air Lines’ charitable arm for a new aerospace engineering facility. This investment further solidifies the area's reputation as a global hub for innovation and will likely continue to influence local property values along the campus border.

Xocolatl Chocolate - expanding - The Krog Street Market-based artisan chocolate maker is expanding its local footprint with a second retail location announced as a primary anchor for the upcoming Upper West Market. (February 27, 2026)

17th & State Restaurant + Bar - opening - A new restaurant and bar concept is scheduled to open its doors at Atlantic Station, adding to the dining and entertainment options in the heart of the district. (February 25, 2026)

Disguise - expanding - This London-based technology company is increasing its presence in the Atlanta market to provide expanded visual and immersive experience services for the local film and entertainment industry. (February 24, 2026)

Torchy's Tacos - closing - The Howell Mill Road location of this popular taco chain has closed its doors as part of a broader set of closures across the brand's network. (February 23, 2026)

Monday, March 02
- Controllerise Vibe Sessions | Monday Night Brewing - West Midtown |

Tuesday, March 03
- Georgia Tech Softball vs Troy | Shirley Clements Mewborn Field |

Wednesday, March 04
- Georgia Tech vs. Cal Men ‘s Basketball | Georgia Tech – McCamish Pavilion |
- Bottled-in-Bond Day at Bar Blanc | Bar Blanc |

Thursday, March 05
- California Golden Bears at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Mens Basketball | McCamish Pavilion |
- the Woodall's 5th Anniversary Party | the Woodall |

Friday, March 06
- Georgia Tech Baseball vs Virginia Tech | Mac Nease Baseball Park at Russ Chandler Stadium |
- Introducing FIRST CLASS FRIDAYS at The New OPIUM! | The New OPIUM |

Saturday, March 07
- Chattahoochee Brick Co. and Atlanta RiverLands Community Conversations | Agape Youth & Family Center |
- Oyster Crawfish Festival At Park Tavern Returns | Park Tavern |
- Fish Hunt & Melaina Kol | Rocky Mountain Pizza Company |
- Georgia Tech Baseball vs Virginia Tech | Mac Nease Baseball Park at Russ Chandler Stadium |

Sunday, March 08
- Cake & Sip Social: International Women's Day at Taste Wine Bar | Taste Wine Bar and Market |
- Georgia Tech Baseball vs Virginia Tech Baseball | Mac Nease Baseball Park at Russ Chandler Stadium |
- Uncle Sugar  The Northside - Sunday Night | Northside Tavern |

Atlanta Public Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
The Board of Education reached a significant milestone by granting final approval to several foundational district policies, including Policy EBB (Safety), Policy JBC (School Admissions), and Policy KM (Visitors to School). These updates formalize revised safety protocols and standards for public access to school facilities across the district. In tandem with these policy shifts, the Board authorized several large-scale expenditures, including the adoption of new K-12 instructional materials and a funding increase for the Metropolitan Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA).

Fiscal planning for the upcoming year moved forward as the Budget Commission began the development cycle for the next fiscal year's budget. Initial discussions focused heavily on "Caring for Every Child," specifically examining the budgetary needs for Exceptional Children (Special Education) and Student Support Services, such as school counseling and health services. To support ongoing infrastructure needs, the Board also approved revised budgets for "BuildSmart" capital projects. These adjustments ensure that construction and renovations funded by the 2022 SPLOST (one-penny sales tax) remain viable despite fluctuations in material costs and project scopes.

Strategic discussions during the week centered on student well-being and community ties. District leaders presented data-driven investment strategies designed to align financial resources with student outcomes. This was complemented by a focus on "Trusted Adults," a mentorship initiative aimed at ensuring every student has a reliable adult figure within the school system to improve emotional and academic success. Meanwhile, the Board Development Committee elected Dr. Kaycee Brock as Chair and began finalizing the agenda for an upcoming Board Retreat, which will prioritize a new Community Engagement Plan.

Most notable to your neighborhood:
Centennial Academy (531 Luckie Street NW): The Board authorized a funding increase for significant HVAC upgrades at this facility. This project is part of the district's broader effort to modernize climate control systems across older campuses near the Georgia Tech and Home Park areas.

Other topics:
The Student Advisory Council held a working session to prepare for "Crossover Day" at the Georgia State Capitol, where students will advocate for educational legislation. The Board also issued formal resolutions recognizing National School Social Work Week, Women’s History Month, and Youth Art Month.

Atlanta City Council

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
Major infrastructure and policy shifts dominated the week, largely driven by preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The council moved forward with the "Integrated Atlanta: Wi-Fi World Cup Initiative," which involves multi-hundred-thousand-dollar contracts with Georgia Power and Comcast to install smart streetlight infrastructure and digital connectivity. Relatedly, the Transportation Committee advanced a proposal to increase on-street metered parking fees from $1.00 to $1.75 per half-hour citywide. In utilities, the council is synthesized across committees to delay the "Cool Roofs" ordinance requirements until June 1, 2027, citing supply chain shortages for the high-reflectivity materials needed for compliance.

Policy reforms regarding public safety and commerce were also prominent. The Public Safety Committee discussed allowing "Happy Hour" style alcohol promotions (up to 50% discounts) and creating a new "Southdown Entertainment District" with open-container allowances. Simultaneously, a resolution was introduced urging the Atlanta Police Department to prioritize community-based diversion programs over custodial arrests for low-level offenses to mitigate overcrowding at the Fulton County Jail. Additionally, the council moved toward centralizing all Airbnb and Vrbo oversight into a new "Office of Short-Term Rentals" within the Department of City Planning.

In zoning policy, the council discussed a significant amendment to the Beltline Overlay District that would prohibit new self-storage, warehousing, and distribution centers along the corridor. This move aims to prioritize active, walkable, mixed-use developments over "non-active" land uses.

Most notable to your neighborhood:
Several projects specific to West Midtown and the Marietta Boulevard corridor saw movement. The council approved a five-year industrial lease for approximately 33,000 square feet at 2284 Marietta Boulevard for use by the Department of Parks and Recreation. In Blandtown, the rezoning of 1131 Cato Street NW was approved to allow for six new townhomes, three of which will be priced for those at 80% Area Median Income. For 690 11th Street NW, the committee reviewed a Special Use Permit for Ladybird West Midtown to operate a large-scale venue where alcohol is sold.

Infrastructure projects in the area were also advanced: the Transportation Committee moved forward with property acquisitions for the Chattahoochee Avenue Sidewalk Installation Project and a project management agreement for the Huff Road Widening Project. In Bolton, the city authorized $1.16 million for Phase II of levee improvements at the RM Clayton Water Reclamation Center to protect the facility from catastrophic flooding.

Other topics:
The council updated the city tax code to align interest rates on delinquent taxes with Georgia state law and accepted a $1.2 million grant for a citywide Railroad Crossing Elimination safety study. There was also discussion regarding a $445,482 donation for public murals and art programming through "Living Walls."

Meetings in the Next Week
- Committee on Council March 02, 2026 at 11:30 AM. This meeting focuses on internal governance, including charter amendments to streamline how vacancies are filled on city boards and limiting mandatory ethics training to newly elected officials.
- Atlanta City Council March 02, 2026 at 1:00 PM. The full council will take final votes on the parking fee increase, World Cup Wi-Fi initiatives, and the creation of the Office of Short-Term Rentals. Neighborhood items up for final consideration include the industrial lease at 2284 Marietta Blvd, the 1131 Cato Street NW townhome project, the Special Use Permit for 690 11th Street NW, and pothole claims at 1872 Marietta Blvd NW and 1800 Howell Mill Road.

Atlanta NPU

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
Legislative updates dominated the session, specifically regarding the city’s move to adopt a new on-street metered parking fee structure (Ordinance 26-O-1079) and a proposed administrative storm water fee. The storm water initiative, led by the Department of Watershed Management, drew criticism for lacking a "sunset clause," meaning the fee could continue indefinitely after compliance projects are completed. Additionally, the multi-modal study for Collier Road was reviewed, focusing on three potential mural concepts to be installed on local retaining walls. Community members also debated the ongoing rezoning effort at La Dawn Lane, where a developer is seeking a second vote for a 34-unit townhome project near the Whetstone Creek Trail despite previous denials from the NPU and Zoning Review Board.

Most notable to your neighborhood:
Development plans for Phase II of The Works in Blandtown were presented by Selig Co., which includes a mix of new office space, multifamily units, and a grocery store. Several alcohol and business licenses were also under review: Anne Quatrano’s Summerland project (a bakery and cafe near Howell Mill), a new restaurant called The Porch moving into the former Walmart space on Howell Mill Road alongside the new Wayfair, and a new business application for The Boiler Room at 1385 Collier Road. Additionally, a change of agent was processed for Nuevo Laredo Cantina on Chattahoochee Avenue.

Other topics:
The Underwood Hills Neighborhood Association confirmed that construction has officially begun on the footbridge replacement within Underwood Hills Park. Residents were also notified of upcoming citywide Neighborhood Watch training scheduled for late March.

Meetings in the Next Week
- NPU-E Monthly Meeting, March 03, 2026 at 6:30 PM. The agenda includes updates on the right-of-way abandonment at Westminster Drive (26-O-1074) and various alcohol license applications for the Atlantic Station and Home Park areas, including Shake Shack at 1168 Howell Mill Road and The Barrel Proof at 1170 Howell Mill Road.
- NPU-C Monthly Meeting, March 03, 2026 at 6:45 PM. Key discussion points include revisions to the 350 West Wesley development (Wesley Park) regarding tree preservation and setbacks, along with general zoning and variance requests for the Collier Hills and Springlake neighborhoods.

Fulton County Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

Big agenda items:
The Board of Education held a retreat on February 24 focused on long-term strategic and fiscal planning. Members reviewed an initial update for the FY2027 budget and the Capital Plan 2027, which outlines upcoming construction, renovations, and facility improvements. A significant portion of the planning session looked further ahead to the Capital Plan 2032, specifically targeting the district's long-term technology infrastructure and classroom technology requirements. As this was a retreat, no formal votes were taken on these items, but they serve as the foundation for upcoming budgetary decisions.

Other topics:
The board received training on the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), Georgia’s accountability system for measuring school performance. They also discussed resources related to the University of Virginia (UVA) partnership, which focuses on school leadership development and turnaround efforts, 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: The official agenda has not yet been released, but the board is expected to transition the strategic topics discussed at the recent retreat—including the FY2027 budget and capital project updates—into formal reports and potential action items.

Fulton County Board of Commissioners

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Commissioners, March 04, 2026 at 10:00 AM: The board will review a comprehensive audit of the 2026 budget and consider a resolution to allocate 2% of county funds toward new hospital facilities following the closure of Atlanta Medical Center. Other key items include federal grant awards for municipal park and water improvements across several Fulton cities, affordable housing support in Vine City, and a plan for intake-level diversion screening at the Fulton County Jail (901 Rice Street NW).

Permits

Here’s a look at the latest permit activity shaping our neck of the woods. From major demolitions to the finishing touches on new residential hubs, there is plenty of movement across West Midtown and the surrounding neighborhoods.

- 2085 Marietta Blvd NW — Vertical demolition of a 6,070 sq. ft. industrial/office building. Expect some noise in the Hills Park area as this structure is cleared.
- 1021 Huff Rd NW — Multiple permits filed for the interior build-out of new residential condos. This is part of a larger "Core and Shell" project bringing more density to the Blandtown/West Midtown area.
- 1121 Huff Rd NW — Installation of AV systems, security cameras, and fiber cabling throughout the amenity areas of this new multi-family development.
- 2279 Defoor Hills Rd NW — Commercial renovation involving the construction of two new restrooms and lighting upgrades.
- 1357 Boyd Ave NW — Installation of a temporary power pole to support a general contractor’s onsite work trailer, signaling more construction is imminent.
- 700 14th St NW — Commercial fence replacement and installation of a new section on the southeast side of the building.

Beyond these specific highlights, the city has seen a flurry of activity in our area with 32 additional notable commercial and multi-family permits totaling approximately $3,000,000 in value. Most of these involve plumbing and internal alterations for the ongoing residential boom. On the residential side, things are a bit quieter, with 38 minor permits issued—nearly a third of which were for the removal of dead or hazardous trees.

Road Work

Hey neighbors, keep your eyes on the road! We’ve got a few major projects moving through West Midtown and Collier Hills that might affect your morning coffee run or your crawl to the highway. Here is what GDOT has on the books for us this week:

- I-75; I-85; I-285; SR 9 & SR 13 Signal Upgrades — Under Construction. Active work is happening NOW at 11 different locations across these routes. Crews are on-site doing a complete signal overhaul and adding pedestrian accommodations to bring everything up to ADA standards.
- SR 3 & SR 8 Signal Upgrades — Under Construction. You’ll see crews out at four locations along Northside Drive (SR 3) and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway (SR 8). They are currently upgrading equipment and pedestrian facilities, so watch for workers near the intersections.
- SR 3/US 41 Resurfacing — Under Construction. Work is actively happening on the stretch of Northside Drive between Marietta Street and I-75. Crews are on-site resurfacing the road to fix the rough pavement, so expect some lane shifts and traffic impacts.
- Marietta Blvd Corridor Study — Construction Work Program. This project is funded and approved, but construction has NOT started yet. GDOT is currently in the scoping phase to plan for the eventual reconstruction and resurfacing of Marietta Boulevard between Coronet Way and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway.
- Marietta Blvd Shared-Use Path — Construction Work Program. This is still in the pipeline, meaning contracts are being finalized but work hasn't begun. The plan is to build a shared-use path and pedestrian improvements along Marietta Boulevard from SR 8 to Coronet Way.
- Marietta Road Bridge Replacement — Construction Work Program. This project to replace the old Marietta Road bridge over the former CSX Tilford Yard is approved, but crews haven't broken ground yet. The new structure will eventually include 5-foot sidewalks on both sides.
- SR 3/US 19 I-75 Overpass Enhancement — Construction Work Program. Funding is in place for roadway enhancements on the I-75 overpass to reconfigure lanes near Holmes Street, but this project is still in the pre-construction phase.

Service Requests

Keeping our streets safe and clear is a neighborhood-wide effort. Here is a look at the 311 service requests filed by your neighbors over the past week to help the city stay on top of repairs and maintenance:

- Potholes — A very busy week for road repairs, particularly along Collier Road (with several reports concentrated near the Hills Place intersection). Other reports were filed for Bolton Drive, Marietta Blvd, 11th Street, Snyder Street, Chattahoochee Avenue, and the intersection of Huff Road and Howell Mill Road.
- Traffic Signal Repairs — Crews were alerted to both emergency and non-emergency signal issues at the intersection of Northside Drive and Bellemeade Avenue, as well as Northside Drive at Deering Road and Marietta Street. Additional repairs were requested at Marietta Blvd and Elaine Avenue, and the intersections of Howell Mill Road with both Huff Road and Marietta Street.
- Right of Way Maintenance (Visibility & Overgrowth) — Requests were made to address overgrowth and visibility concerns at the intersection of Collier Road and Defoor Avenue, as well as on State Street NW.
- Sign Repair & Installation — Non-emergency requests for sign maintenance or replacement were filed for Huff Road NW and Overbrook Drive NW.
- Illegal Dumping — An investigation was requested for illegal dumping occurring on Loring Drive NW.
- Downed Tree Reporting — A report was filed regarding a downed tree on Howell Mill Road NW.
- Litter Removal — A request for cleanup was submitted for the right of way along Coronet Way NW.