Boulevard’s “City Lights South” — What’s Coming Next in Old Fourth Ward

The Boulevard corridor in the Old Fourth Ward is about to take another leap forward — new plans are emerging for phase six of the City Lights redevelopment by Wingate Capital Associates. This stretch of Boulevard, which includes parts of the old Bedford Pines HUD Section 8 housing, is getting a fresh infusion of investment, design, and affordable housing with City Lights South.

What We Know So Far

• Location & Scope
  The project sits at the northwest corner of Wabash Avenue and Boulevard NE, just a block north of Atlanta Medical Center.  The plan will replace several low-rise residential structures now standing in that area.

• Housing Details
  City Lights South calls for 159 new multifamily units, all designated for tenants earning 60% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI).  The mix will mostly be two-bedroom units (933 sq ft), though there are studios and three-bedroom options too.  Rents are projected to range from about $1,325/month for a studio to $2,650/month for a large three-bedroom (≈1,218 sq ft).

• Amenities & Design
  Plans include a host of community-oriented amenities: computer lab, fitness center, community room, children’s activity area, laundry facilities, and an outdoor communal space atop the parking podium.

• Financing & Timing
  The total approved budget has been raised from $59 million to about $72.7 million.  Funding involves a mix of lease-purchase bonds, tax credits from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and backing from civic finance authorities and private partners.  Construction is set to break ground next year, with an anticipated opening in 2028.

What It Means for the Neighborhood & Buyers

• More Affordable Housing Near the Core
  This project advances affordable and senior housing options in key central neighborhoods. For many people working in or near Midtown, Downtown, or along the medical corridor, this can mean shorter commutes and better access to amenities.

• Potential Effects on Property Values
  As more quality housing (with amenities) is added, nearby property values and demand are likely to see upward pressure. For homeowners and developers, this can translate into rising value. For renters, it signals competition and perhaps an incentive to lock in housing sooner.

• Improved Infrastructure & Density
  With denser, newer multifamily housing comes increased usage of public infrastructure, transit, and amenities. Businesses in the corridor may benefit from more foot traffic and a larger local customer base.

Considerations for Real Estate Investors & Home Buyers

• Timing & Opportunity
  If you’re considering buying or investing in the Old Fourth Ward or nearby, the coming development suggests this stretch of Boulevard will become more desirable. Being ahead of the curve may give you some leverage—better deals now, before prices adjust.

• Affordability vs. Cost Dynamics
  While City Lights South sets aside housing for lower-income renters, rising market rents elsewhere may rise faster as demand increases. Buyers should consider how these shifts affect both cost of living and resale potential.

• Community & Urban Fabric
  Projects like this bring both opportunity and challenges: more amenities and connectivity, but also increased traffic, potential strain on services, and changes to neighborhood character. Keeping an eye on how public infrastructure and zoning adapt will be important.

Bottom Line

City Lights South is another key piece in the ongoing evolution of Boulevard in the Old Fourth Ward. It represents a strong move toward increasing affordable, mid-density multifamily housing near core job, health, and transit hubs. For prospective buyers, renters, and investors, it’s a signal that this area is continuing to grow — not just upward in skyline, but outward in opportunity.