New Effort On Atlanta’s Westside Looks To Protect Longtime Renters

John Ahmann, executive director of the Westside Future Fund, shows off the first property the nonprofit is renovating. The 35 units in English Avenue will be targeted at the neighborhood’s longtime renters.

Stephannie Stokes / WABE

When neighborhood values go up, how do you prevent renters from getting priced out? The answer from a city-backed nonprofit on Atlanta’s fast-developing westside is to get into the real estate business.

The Westside Future Fund, a group focused on the revitalization of neighborhoods around the new Mercedes Benz Stadium, unveiled the first property it plans to turn into affordable housing on Friday.

The nonprofit’s executive director John Ahmann said the 35 units on the site in English Avenue will be priced for those making minimum wage. And they’re just the start.