Reynoldstown
Reynoldstown is one of Atlanta, GA‘s oldest neighborhoods. It is located near Inman Park and along the Atlanta Beltline. Originally a small agricultural settlement, it was enlarged by formerly enslaved people in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The railroad industry influenced the community, which was essential to the neighborhood’s development.
As the railroad industry lost importance in the 20th century, inner cities across America began to decline. One of the main factors contributing to this trend was urban flight. With rising real estate costs, working-class residents found it too expensive to live in the city. Many of these residents relocated outside the city to offset the cost of redevelopment.
As a result of this trend, there is a growing need for affordable housing. This is especially true for the upcoming senior citizen housing demand. Reynoldstown will need to look closely at its zoning and plan for future growth.
To improve the quality of life for Reynoldstown residents, it is imperative to work with the agencies and organizations that provide affordable housing opportunities. The first step is to identify areas in the neighborhood where existing housing needs can be met. Once this is determined, Reynoldstown must implement programs to provide affordable housing to low-income families.
The city of Atlanta has several initiatives to help Reynoldstown. One of these programs is the Atlanta Affordable Home Ownership Program. It provides below-market rate financing for homebuilders who construct homes for low and moderate-income residents. Applicants are screened to ensure that they have adequate qualifications. For those who qualify, the program works with them to save for an affordable home.
Another program is the Individual Development Account (IDA). This program is operated through the United Way and offers mortgage assistance to eligible residents. The IDA program also works to provide funding for repairs to the housing stock. Currently, the majority of housing in Reynoldstown is rented.
There are several types of zoning in Reynoldstown. R-5 zoning, which allows single-family and two-family units, is the primary zoning. Other zoning types include C-1, which permits commercial shops and recreational uses, and C-2, which allows higher density. These types of a zoning allow for two to three-story apartments, retail shops, and other housing developments.
The area around the central park is where significant land use change is anticipated. A new park would be developed in this area, and all major neighborhood streets would lead to the park. Several sections of the neighborhood’s streets will be widened to add left-turning lanes from all directions.
Future Concept and Land Use Plans suggest eliminating all industrial activity from Memorial Drive north to Wylie Street. Instead, light to moderate industrial uses could be designated for these areas. In addition to improving safety and traffic flow, a central park would also serve as a focal point for the community.
The Reynoldstown Civic Improvement League was formed in 1952. Since then, the group has worked to involve the community in political and civic activities. They have also organized the Wheelbarrow Festival, an annual event celebrating the neighborhood’s resiliency.