Abstract

This study investigates the connection between pro-growth development agendas driven by growth coalitions and its effect on affordable housing. This relationship is modeled by the case study of The BeltLine in Atlanta, Georgia. Along this trail, the City of Atlanta has implemented a Tax Allocation District to improve the conditions of the surrounding neighborhoods and support them through economic growth. This research utilizes the theoretical framework of The City as a Growth Machine and Finacialization to examine how pro-growth development agendas shape affordable housing outcomes along the Atlanta BeltLine. This study incorporates a combination of U.S census bureau and policy analysis to further explore the relationship on a local level. The quantitative data looks at five indicators rent burden, change in tenure and ownership, change in median gross rent, change in median home value, change in median household income to dive into neighborhood characteristics and transitions over the decade 2013-2023. The qualitative data includes five documents relevant to the development of The BeltLine that connect original planning ideas to current numbers. These two methods together provide a comprehensive analysis of large-scale planning with an influence of affordable housing provisions. This study shows that investment without upholding affordability requirements has an affect on communities.

Advisor

Goharipour, Hamed

Department

Urban Studies

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences | Urban Studies and Planning

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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