After the Braves announced that they would leave Turner Field, residents of the Summerhill, Peoplestown, Pittsburgh, and Mechanicsville neighborhoods met to discuss what they imagined could become of the almost 80 acres.
Over the course of 3 years, over 1700 residents and countless experts gave input on a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) that would ensure that the community’s voice would be included in future development projects. The CBA ensures that whatever ends up at Turner Field will not displace long term residents who are loved and needed in their community.
Georgia State University and Carter Development have now purchased Turner Field. GSU and Carter have refused to meet with residents, however, despite many community groups’ attempts to reach out and initiate conversation. Moreover, GSU and Carter have resorted to spreading lies through the media about residents’ intentions, implying that all residents want is a cash payout, though residents have never made such a request.
Residents have drawn a line in the sand, however, and simply will not allow GSU, Carter, or any other developer to extract wealth from their community- one that has suffered through so many bad developments over the years. Residents demand to have a voice and a binding agreement about how their community is developed.
That’s why residents and GSU students are taking a stand by organizing a Tent City, and we invite you to join! Follow the Turner Field Community Benefits Coalition and the Housing Justice League on Facebook for updates!
You can support the tent city in several ways!
1. Sign the online petition here!
2. Come down and spend time at the Tent City, 755 Hank Aaron drive, it's a 24 hour occupation and the more people present the more powerful we are!
3. There are a lot of expenses and you can help by making a donation and spreading the word! Click here to donate!
4. Call Carter Development (404-888-3343) and GSU (404-413-1300) and tell them that residents aren't disposable. Sign a Community Benefits Agreement!
