Recovery Act Funds Atlanta Municipal Market Revitalization

Atlanta Municipal Market Revitalization

Established in 1918 and in its current location since 1924, the Sweet Auburn Curb Market (SACM) in downtown Atlanta is one of the city's best kept secrets. In an area where low income residents have few options to purchase healthy and affordable foods, the SACM has for years been a place that offers an exotic array of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese, fish, ethnic foods, soul food and much, much more.

However, in recent years the market had begun to fall on hard times as badly needed but delayed physical improvements put its future in question. But that was before SACM was awarded HUD stimulus funding in the amount of $789,040 to address its deferred maintenance needs.

During the July 9 announcement ceremony at the Atlanta market, U.S. HUD Deputy Secretary Ronald Sims stated, "The investment made in SACM is symbolic of exactly what the Recovery Act funds were designed to do because they work quickly, create jobs where they are needed most, and will lead to lasting economic growth benefits for the local Atlanta community for years to come."

The funding awarded to SACM was used to repair a badly leaking roof that threatened the viability of the building, as well as to make energy improvements such as new windows that will lower energy costs and thus overall operating expense for the facility. Because of these improvements, 25 existing businesses were able to be retained and 4 new businesses committed to open in the facility. There were 35 construction jobs created by the funding, as well as 32 permanent new jobs. The funding also helped retain jobs at businesses that were considering leaving before the renovation that are committed to stay because of the renovation. In addition, the increase in sales will increase sales taxes for the municipality.

The market serves primarily the low/moderate income residents in the immediate area, as well as Georgia State University students and Grady Hospital staff. The market is also a regional magnet for the metro area attracting Atlanta customers from all over the city. The diversity of the food available at the market is legendary, but most folks would agree that if you are ever in the area you have to try the Sweet Potato Cheesecake. It is to die for.

To learn more about HUD's implementation of the Recovery Act, go to www.hud.gov/recovery.

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