The Pencil Lofts were one of the many construction projects being built around Atlanta just when the real estate market fell off a cliff.  And while it may be just one of many such projects, the future of this project has been particularly interesting, since it sits in a slot along Decatur Street in downtown Atlanta with many, MANY different influences in each direction.

To the east: the King Memorial MARTA Station.  To the west: Georgia State.  Across the street to the north, the old location of the Grady Homes, still under construction.  To the south, Memorial Drive.

As a result, it’s been interesting to observe the ongoing fate of this late-to-the-party, mixed-use project.  And though it’s hard to determine the current residential occupancy rate, two of the properties’ commercial locations were just recently occupied, with an Intown Market and a hair salon.

The Lofts finally seemed to be showing signs that it might be able to hold its own in a very transitional area.  Then last night, this happened…

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“S” posted this comment yesterday, but it got stuck in moderation.  The AJC reported on the incident this morning, but some details differed from the account below.

Earlier today a Kirkwood resident was working in his yard when he was approached by 2 young black males, at least one armed with a handgun, demanding money. When the victim stated he did not have any, he was shot multiple times and currently undergoing surgery.

The shooting occured at Ridgedale Road near Branham Park.

One black female and two black males, traveling together in a bright red Kia SUV, partial tag # 4247.

– 1st black male dreadlocks multi-colored shirt appeared to very young.

– 2nd black male wearing a blue shirt appeared to very young.

– black female, no description

If you see this vehicle, please contact the police.

Valencia Hudson – Public Safety Liaison for Councilmember Natalyn Archibong