In a remarkable demonstration of successful brownfield redevelopment, Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund has played a pivotal role in transforming one of the region’s most historic industrial sites into a thriving mixed-use entertainment and arts district that now serves as a community gathering space.
The Historic Legacy
The 27-acre Pullman Yards carries a rich historical significance dating back to the early 1900s. From the 1920s to the 1950s, the site served as a crucial repair and storage yard for the Pullman Rail Car Company, notably becoming one of the largest employers of African American men during segregation through the iconic Pullman Porters program.
The Challenge
After decades of industrial use, the property faced significant environmental challenges, including:
- Asbestos-containing materials
- Lead-based paint in industrial buildings
- Lead-contaminated soil
- Various hazardous substances and pollutants
The Transformation Journey
In 2017, Atomic Entertainment purchased the property for $8 million from the State of Georgia, marking the beginning of an ambitious redevelopment journey. The project successfully secured crucial funding from several sources, including $800,000 from Decide DeKalb’s Brownfield Revolving Loan Fund, which helped with soil remediation.
Creating Community Spaces
Today, Pullman Yards stands as more than just a redeveloped industrial site – it has become a true community anchor. The transformation has created:
- Public gathering spaces that host community events and celebrations
- Arts and cultural venues that showcase local talent
- An entertainment district that brings neighbors together
- Interactive spaces that engage visitors of all ages
- A historic preservation success story that connects past to present
Regular art installations, cultural events, and community programming have made Pullman Yards an integral part of Atlanta’s social fabric.
A Model for Community-Driven Collaboration
The Pullman Yards project demonstrates how public-private partnerships can transform neighborhoods when the community’s needs are put first. This groundbreaking collaboration brought together multiple stakeholders committed to neighborhood revitalization:
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Georgia Environmental Protection Division
- Decide DeKalb
- City of Atlanta
- National Park Service
This unified approach shows how agencies at every level can work together to serve community interests – turning environmental challenges into opportunities forneighborhood renaissance. The result is more than just a cleaned-up industrial site; it’s a blueprint for how collaborative efforts can create accessible spaces that strengthen community bonds and create lasting value for residents.
Looking Forward
As Pullman Yards continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the power of environmental remediation to not just clean up contaminated sites, but to create meaningful spaces that bring communities together. The project serves as an inspiration for future brownfield redevelopment efforts, showing how strategic investment and collaboration can transform industrial heritage into community treasure.