When the General Motors assembly plant in Doraville closed its doors in 2008 after 61 years of operation, it left behind more than just memories — it left 135 acres of brownfield space within Atlanta’s bustling I-285 perimeter. Today, thanks to crucial support from Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund, this once-dormant industrial site has been transformed into Assembly Atlanta, a groundbreaking entertainment and mixed-use development that’s driving economic growth in DeKalb County.
The Challenge
After producing nearly 10 million vehicles over six decades, the former GM site required significant environmental remediation before it could begin its next chapter. The property’s strategic location—adjacent to MARTA and inside I-285—made it one of DeKalb’s most scrutinized redevelopment opportunities, demanding a solution that would maximize its potential while ensuring environmental responsibility.
The Solution
Through the strategic deployment of Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund for soil remediation, the site’s environmental challenges were successfully addressed, paving the way for Gray Television and the Gipson Company’s innovative vision. This critical funding support helped transform a contaminated industrial site into a sustainable, state-of-the-art development.
The Results
Today, Assembly Atlanta stands as a testament to successful brownfield redevelopment. The site now hosts Assembly Studios, a nearly one-million-square-foot television and film production facility, creating numerous high-quality jobs in DeKalb County’s growing digital entertainment sector.
Looking Forward
Assembly Atlanta exemplifies how Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund can transform development. By supporting the crucial soil remediation phase, Decide DeKalb helped unlock the site’s potential, creating a development that not only drives economic growth but also enhances environmental sustainability and community quality of life.
The project demonstrates how strategic brownfield remediation funding can spark private investment and innovation, turning environmental challenges into economic opportunities. As Assembly Atlanta continues to grow, it stands as a model for future brownfield redevelopment projects in DeKalb County and beyond.
Project Highlights
- Location: Doraville, Georgia
- Site Size: 135 acres
- Former Use: General Motors Assembly Plant (1947-2008)
- Current Use: Mixed-use entertainment district and film studio complex
- Key Feature: Integration of film production facilities with public spaces
- Environmental Achievement: Conversion from brownfield to sustainable mixed-
use development - Economic Impact: Major contributor to Georgia’s film industry infrastructure
This success story showcases how Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund serves as a crucial tool in transforming environmental challenges into economic opportunities, supporting DeKalb County’s continued growth and prosperity.