Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, in partnership with the economic development authority, Invest Atlanta, and local grocery store Savi Provisions has announced plans to bring fresh food retailers to two communities struggling with food access. These stores aim to fill critical gaps in neighborhoods near Campbellton Plaza and Downtown Atlanta, which are currently food deserts. The project comes with an approved budget of $8.1 million from the Invest Atlanta Board, a sum that is earmarked for developing the sites and covering operating costs.
"We recognize the challenges faced by communities in accessing fresh and nutritious food," stated Mayor Dickens, according to a recent announcement from the City of Atlanta. As Board Chair of Invest Atlanta, Dickens expounded on the city's resolution to conquer these challenges by creating municipal grocery stores, emphasizing the belief that "everyone deserves access to fresh food, regardless of their economic situation." This initiative follows through on a commitment the mayor voiced earlier in his State of the City address, eyes set on a second half of 2025 opening.
The inaugural location will be at 2080 Campbellton Road SW in Southwest Atlanta, managed by Savi Provisions in a sublease agreement with Invest Atlanta. Savi Provisions will also operate the downtown site, this time under a sublease pact with an existing tenant. These establishments will boast flexible hours to accommodate various schedules, and they plan to offer affordable fresh produce, meats, dairy, and other critical grocery items. Through collaboration with local farmers and suppliers, there is an expectation for the grocery stores to revive economic activity within the affected areas.
Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta, highlighted the dual benefit of these stores, saying that they will provide "a vital lifeline to help underserved communities" while also fueling job growth and investment. As reported by the City of Atlanta's news release, these new grocery outlets are projected to generate approximately 80 jobs with an estimated economic impact of $21 million. Moreover, the stores will not only be food centers but also act as community hubs, offering events like cooking classes and nutritional education—efforts designed to foster healthy eating habits within the community.
In statements given to the City of Atlanta, Councilmember Marci Collier Overstreet expressed her enthusiasm about the forthcoming Savi Provisions store in District 11, noting the sustained efforts to bring essential fresh food options to local families. Savi's CEO, Paul Nair, also chimed in on the collaboration with the Mayor's office and Invest Atlanta, touting it as a transformative project that addresses a neglected need for accessible, affordable groceries and jobs in the downtown community.
Food deserts have long affected low-income neighborhoods, worsening existing inequalities. This initiative addresses these issues by partnering with stores to offer affordable options, including SNAP benefits and discounts. These stores are not just businesses; they represent a step toward equity and ensuring that all Atlanta residents have access to healthy food.
