West Midtown / Collier Hills: Rivalries Paused, Antico Pizza, and the Great Phone Ban Debate

Good morning, West Midtown! Spring is in the air, but things are heating up over a proposed Westside Beltline shelter and a potential phone ban at APS. We’ve also got the scoop on a horror-themed bookstore and why your local happy hour is about to get a whole lot friendlier on your wallet.

- Big Stories — From a rare peace treaty between Tech and UGA to the brewing debate over a Westside Beltline shelter, we’ve got the stories you need to know.
- Local Business Updates — Just a quick reminder this week on the best pizza in Atlanta (don’t @ me).
- Upcoming Events — Clear your calendar for salsa takeovers, March Madness watch parties, and a whole lot of Yellow Jacket softball.
- Local Government Discussion — We’re breaking down a billion-dollar week at City Hall, APS personality tests, and a massive expansion plan for The Works.
- Development & Construction Nearby — Between emergency water repairs at 10th and Hemphill and a major glow-up for Howell Mill, keep those eyes on the road (and the orange cones).

Let's dive in.

BIG STORIES

Shelter opponents call for ‘economic justice’ with massive Beltline site (March 13, 2026) Neighbors are sounding off on a massive proposed homeless services center planned for a multi-acre site along the Westside Beltline. While advocates say the help is desperately needed, a growing group of locals is pushing for "economic justice" and more transparency on how this prime land is utilized. It’s the classic "right idea, maybe the wrong spot" debate heating up right in our backyard.

Neighbors contribute to design of Chattahoochee Brick Co. memorial, park (March 12, 2026) The old Chattahoochee Brick Company site is finally getting its second act, and residents in Bolton and Hills Park are helping call the shots. Last weekend, neighbors gathered to map out a memorial and park that honors the site’s heavy history while finally giving the community some much-needed greenspace. The land has sat vacant since 2011, so yes, we are more than ready for this glow-up.

Clean Old Fashioned Hate put on pause for Clean Old Fashioned Environmentalism (March 12, 2026) Hell has officially frozen over: Georgia Tech and UGA are actually working together. The bitter rivals are pausing the "Clean, Old Fashioned Hate" to focus on "Clean, Old Fashioned Environmentalism" via a new sustainability partnership. Turns out, saving the planet is the one thing that can get a Yellow Jacket and a Bulldog in the same room without a whistle blowing.

Could Atlanta high schoolers soon lose phone access during the school day? (March 13, 2026) Get ready for some serious teenage side-eye because Atlanta Public Schools is eyeing a potential ban on phones during the school day. The goal is to cut distractions and boost focus, but we all know the cafeteria vibe is about to get a lot more... vocal. Whether you call it a digital detox or a total disaster, the board is looking hard at making hallways a no-scroll zone.

Georgia Tech Recognized as a Leader in Sustainable Transportation (March 11, 2026) Our neighbors over at Georgia Tech just snagged a gold star for their sustainable transit efforts. From bike-friendly paths to campus shuttles, they’re basically the blueprint for how to get around the city without losing your mind in a car. Now, if they could just figure out how to apply that magic to the traffic on Northside Drive, we’d really be talking.

LOCAL BUSINESS UPDATES

Antico Pizza Napoletana - recognition - A little birdie (okay, Eater) is reminding everyone why we still crowd into this Home Park legend for that perfect chewy crust. Between the "no patience for indecisiveness" ordering line and the elbow-to-elbow energy, it’s the high-octane pizza experience that basically defines our corner of the city. (March 11, 2026)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Get ready for a high-energy week in the neighborhood, headlined by a major three-day softball showdown at Georgia Tech as the Yellow Jackets take on Duke! Whether you're heading to the Ferst Center for heavy-hitting tech talks or catching the start of March Madness at Your 3rd Spot, there is no shortage of reasons to get out and explore the Westside this week.

Monday, March 16
- Industry Night | Chattahoochee Food Works

Tuesday, March 17
- Des Rocs | Terminal West
- Georgia’s Largest Happy Hour TUESDAYS | Chattahoochee Food Works

Wednesday, March 18
- Mind Enterprises Live | Terminal West

Thursday, March 19
- Mind Enterprises | Terminal West
- Tech Talks Business Adena Friedman | Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech
- Atlanta F.A.M. THURSDAYS- Fashion, Art & Music | Chattahoochee Food Works
- Chicheria Mexican Kitchen's Salsa x Frazie's Meat & Market Taco Takeover | Chichería Mexican Kitchen
- Watch March Madness at Y3S | Your 3rd Spot

Friday, March 20
- Georgia Tech Track & Field | George C. Griffin Track & Field Facility
- Tech Talks Business Featuring Sridhar Ramaswamy | Ferst Center for the Arts at Georgia Tech
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Softball vs. Duke Blue Devils Softball | Shirley C. Mewborn Field
- Interstellar Echoes - A Pink Floyd Tribute | Terminal West
- Friday Night Live | Atlantic Green

Saturday, March 21
- Party in Pink Atlanta | The Dogwood
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Softball vs. Duke Blue Devils Softball | Shirley C. Mewborn Field
- Jonathan Richman w/ Tommy Larkins | Terminal West

Sunday, March 22
- Sunday Farmers Market | Chattahoochee Food Works
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Softball vs. Duke Blue Devils Softball | Shirley C. Mewborn Field
- FIA "THE LOVE ME TOUR" | Terminal West
- Uncle Sugar – The Northside - Sunday Night | Northside Tavern

LOCAL GOVERNMENT DISCUSSION

Atlanta Public Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

The Board of Education escaped the usual boardroom grind for a two-day retreat at Pittsburgh Yards on March 13 and 14. If you’ve ever been forced into a corporate "team building" session, you’ll recognize the vibe: the Board spent a significant chunk of time reviewing their "Strengths Finder" results and learning their "Work Appreciation" languages. While it sounds a bit touchy-feely, the goal is to fix the internal friction and figure out how to work together as a cohesive unit rather than a group of squabbling neighbors. They also discussed "meeting cadences," essentially trying to figure out how often they should meet and how to stop their public engagement from becoming a free-for-all.

But it wasn't all personality tests and scheduling. The Board spent Day Two digging into the "Instructional Core"—the actual meat and potatoes of why schools exist. The big takeaways were a renewed focus on "Accelerated Literacy" (because reading proficiency remains a major hurdle) and making sure "College and Career Readiness" actually means something for students graduating in the next few years. They also peeked way into the future with "APS Forward 2040," the district’s long-term strategic vision.

Also worth noting: While the retreat was more about "big picture" vibes than specific law-making, the Board is moving toward standardizing how they interact with the public. They’re looking for a more predictable way to hear from parents and residents, which should hopefully make the next round of budget or zoning debates a little less chaotic. Since this was a retreat focused on strategy and internal governance, no specific policy votes or neighborhood-level zoning changes were finalized this week.

Atlanta City Council

Discussion from the Past Week

It was a billion-dollar week at City Hall, and no, that isn’t a typo. The Finance Committee cleared the way for a $1.25 billion bond issuance to fix our aging water and sewer pipes. While “revenue refunding bonds” sounds like a snooze-fest, it’s basically the city taking out a massive mortgage to ensure the faucets keep running and the sewers don't, well, stop. Speaking of things that need to keep moving, the airport’s “Plane Train” is getting a $32.8 million tune-up to ensure you aren't stranded at Concourse T when you're late for a flight.

If you’re a fan of a cheap afternoon beverage, the Public Safety Committee has some news: they’re modernizing "Happy Hour" rules. While "all you can drink" specials are still banned, businesses can now offer up to 50% off drink prices. Meanwhile, your commute and your parking spot are getting some legislative attention. The Transportation Committee moved forward with the first parking fee hike in 15 years, jumping from $1.00 to $1.75 per half-hour. They’re also fast-tracking World Cup 2026 prep, approving $34 million for airport “aesthetic restoration” (think: fresh carpets and paint) and $7.6 million for anti-drone technology to keep the skies clear during the matches.

But here's the thing: the city is also trying to get its own house in order. A new proposal would require every piece of legislation to have a named sponsor, ending the mystery of "ghost" bills appearing out of nowhere. This transparency push follows a brewing scandal over $910,000 in consulting payments made to a former clerk for work on a referendum that never actually happened—an investigation that is gaining steam as the Council asserts its independence from the Mayor’s office.

Also worth noting: If you’ve been frustrated by the neighbor’s revolving door of Airbnb guests, the city is moving to create a dedicated Office of Short-Term Rentals. This department would finally centralize permits and enforcement, requiring platforms to verify licenses before a listing can even go live.

Most notable to your neighborhood:

Meetings in the Next Week
- Committee on Council, March 16, 2026 at 11:30 AM – This session will focus on the fallout from the Foris Webb III investigation regarding $910,000 in questionable city payments and a Charter amendment to fill chronic vacancies on city boards.
- Atlanta City Council, March 16, 2026 at 1:00 PM – The full body is expected to vote on the massive rezoning for "The Works" expansion and the creation of a "South Downtown Open Container District" for outdoor drinking.

Fulton County Schools

Discussion from the Past Week

The Board of Education spent their March 10th sessions balancing the checkbook and tightening the belt. Most notably, the district is moving forward with a "reduction in force" specifically targeting the Central Office. While no one likes the "L" word (layoffs), the administration is signaling a shift to prioritize school-level staffing as they dig into the FY2027 budget planning. Speaking of the budget, the board also decided to play hardball with the City of East Point, voting to terminate their participation in the East Point Tax Allocation District (TAD). Essentially, the district decided that future property tax increases in that area are better spent on students than on subsidizing local development projects.

Meanwhile, the district is looking at a massive facelift. The board reviewed the 2026 State of School Facilities Report and greenlit a flurry of contracts, ranging from a major summer painting project to a total overhaul of custodial services. They are also moving into the digital fast lane with new approvals for wide-area network solutions and enterprise software licenses. On the academic side, there’s some good news for students looking for real-world skills: the board is fast-tracking a new AP Business with Personal Finance course and expanding several Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs.

But here’s the thing that actually affects your Saturday mornings: the board is currently rewriting Policy FEAE, which dictates how they involve the community in project planning. Whether it's a new gym or a school expansion, this policy determines how much of a heads-up neighbors get before the bulldozers arrive. They are also looking at a "Tuition" policy update, which will clarify exactly who has to pay to play if they live outside the district lines.

Also worth noting: Enrollment projections for the 2026-2027 school year were presented, which will drive everything from teacher hiring to which schools might feel a little more "cozy" (read: crowded) come next August.

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Education, March 19, 2026, 6:00 PM – This is the primary monthly voting session where the board is expected to finalize the budget calendar and officially sign off on the policy changes and contracts discussed during the previous work sessions. It typically includes a public comment section for residents to voice concerns directly to the board members.

Fulton County Board of Commissioners

Meetings in the Next Week
- Board of Commissioners, March 18 at 10:00 AM. The Board is set to tackle some heavy-hitting financial moves, including a $300 million commitment toward a new $900 million hospital in South Fulton and the authorization of $325 million in short-term notes to keep the county running until property tax season kicks in. Commissioners will also revisit a previously "held" proposal from early March regarding voter ID education and discuss how to make sure small businesses aren't left behind during the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, they'll be clearing the way for several new residential developments across the county by approving sewer and water maintenance agreements.

Past Meetings: Synthesized Notes
If you feel like you’re hearing about Voter ID education again, it’s because you are. Item 26-0120 was stuck in "held" status at the March 4th meeting and is now back on the table for the Board to finally decide how much energy to put into public education on the topic. On the operations front, the County Manager is following up on the "Jail Maintenance Blitz"—while workers have successfully hit their target of refreshing 11 housing units, they’re still fighting a losing battle against vandalism, which is currently driving 65% of new repair requests. Also worth noting: the Board is continuing to bridge the gap in North Fulton wastewater services with a $12.4 million contract extension while they wait for a legal protest over the long-term contract to shake out.

DEVELOPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION NEARBY

Permits
- 1881 Howell Mill Rd NW — A major buildout is coming to this existing single-story building. It’s got a walk-out level, and the plans look substantial. Because Howell Mill clearly wasn't busy enough already!
- 1634 Northside Dr NW — Two big permits here for a commercial kitchen, including grease traps, hoods, and walk-in coolers. Someone is definitely opening a new restaurant — keep your forks ready.
- 1375 Seaboard Industrial Blvd NW — Safety first! They’re installing a massive new sprinkler system in the front office area, including 84 new pendants. That’s a lot of hardware.
- 2785 Ridgemore Rd NW — Grab the earplugs if you live nearby. They’re demoing an old garage floor to finish out a basement. It’s going to be noisy, but that extra square footage will be worth it.
- 1050 Techwood Dr NW — This interior renovation project is officially moving into the fire alarm phase. Just another day of keeping things up to code over near Georgia Tech.

Road Work

Under Construction
- SR 3/Northside Drive at 14th Street and Hemphill Avenue — This is a big one for our daily navigation. GDOT is currently simplifying this intersection cluster to improve traffic flow and signal flexibility. It’s right in the heart of the West Midtown/Georgia Tech corridor, so expect some shifting lanes and orange cone chaos while they reconfigure things.
- I-75 from Musket Ridge Drive to I-85 (Fulton County) — Crews are out upgrading the old lighting systems to energy-efficient LEDs along this stretch of the interstate. You might see workers replacing poles and conduit, which could mean some overnight lane closures when you’re heading home late.
- Bridge Preservation at 7 Locations (Fulton, Cobb, and DeKalb Counties) — This project spans multiple counties and includes work on the US 41/SR 280 ramps. They’re doing the heavy lifting of painting steel beams and replacing bridge joints to keep everything sturdy. Heads up for crews working overhead if your commute takes you toward Cobb.
- SR 9 from Northside Drive to Paces Ferry Road — If your ride has been feeling a little bumpy, there’s relief coming. GDOT is resurfacing this stretch of SR 9 to fix the "low OCI score" (basically, the road’s report card was bad). Expect a much smoother drive between West Midtown and Buckhead once they wrap up.
- Buford Spring Connector at I-85 — More tunnel lighting upgrades are underway! They’re swapping out the old fixtures for LEDs and replacing wiring to brighten up the connector. Just a heads-up to stay alert for maintenance crews tucked into the tunnel areas.
- SR 13 from SR 9 to North Fork Peachtree Creek — This stretch hasn't been resurfaced since 2012, so it’s finally getting some love. Active maintenance is happening now to smooth out the asphalt, which is great news for anyone using the connector to head toward the northeast side of town.

Construction Work Program
- Marietta Blvd from Coronet Way to DL Hollowell Pkwy — Marietta Blvd is getting a major glow-up. GDOT is scoping out a full resurfacing and reconstruction for this stretch, which should eventually make that bumpy ride through Blandtown a lot smoother.
- Marietta Blvd Shared Use Path (SR 8 to Coronet Way) — Along with the road work, there’s a plan to build a shared-use path here. It’s a big win for the neighborhood's connectivity, though we’re still in the "waiting for the first shovel" phase.
- Marietta Road Bridge Replacement — The aging bridge over the former CSX Tilford Yard is slated for a total replacement. The best part? They’re adding actual 5-foot sidewalks on both sides, so you won't have to play a game of "frogger" just to cross the tracks near Hills Park.
- SR 3/US 19 (Northside Drive) at the I-75 SB Ramps — Big changes are coming to the I-75 overpass. The plan is to slim the road down to a single northbound lane and two southbound lanes. It’s an "enhancement" to manage flow, but definitely one to watch if this is your daily route to the interstate.
- 14th Street Realignment (Howell Mill Rd to W Peachtree St) — This is a "transformation" project for the heart of the Westside. It’s going to realign parts of 14th Street to better handle the Atlantic Station and Home Park traffic surge.
- Moores Mill Road Roundabout at I-75 — The awkward merge at the I-75 northbound ramps is finally getting a roundabout. It’ll feature a two-lane section to keep Moores Mill traffic moving toward Buckhead without the current stop-and-go headache.
- SR 9/US 19 (Peachtree Road) Bridge over CSX — The bridge over the railroad tracks near the south end of Collier Hills is scheduled for a full replacement. They're planning to maintain five lanes of traffic during the work, but expect some "heads up" energy once the heavy machinery arrives.
- Northside Drive Realignment (Marietta St to 8th St) — They are basically building a "new" Northside Drive for this stretch. The goal is to improve the intersections near Georgia Tech and the Marietta Street Artery, which should help untangle that messy corridor.
- SR 8 (Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy) Pedestrian Facilities — New bike and pedestrian accommodations are coming to the stretch between the Proctor Creek Greenway and the Beltline. It’s a key piece of the puzzle for connecting West Midtown to the rest of the city's trail network.

Utility Work

Atlanta Watershed
- Emergency Intersection Closure at 10th Street NW and Hemphill Avenue NW — Heads up for anyone commuting near Georgia Tech or Home Park: the intersection of 10th and Hemphill is closed for emergency work to replace a large water valve. This started on March 13, so expect some detours and extra traffic if you’re heading toward the waterworks or the north end of campus.

Service Requests
- Emergency Traffic Signal Repairs — Reported at the intersections of Bolton Dr & Marietta Blvd, Marietta Blvd & Chattahoochee Ave NW, and Bellemeade Ave & Howell Mill Rd (eyes up, everyone—nobody likes a four-way stop guessing game).