Atlanta is seeking a tenant for an award-winning space in Grant Park that has never been filled.
The city has issued a request for proposals to gather ideas for a restaurant or retail concept that could fill the vacant space, Urbanize Atlanta reports.
The more than 7,000-square-foot space adjacent to Zoo Atlanta sits atop a parking garage and overlooks a greenspace.
In the request, the city says it is seeking a “qualified commercial enterprise” for the space, such as a bakery, sandwich shop or yoga studio. The business would ideally aim to increase the property value of the neighborhood, enhance the area’s livability and add convenience for residents and visitors.
Atlanta’s Department of Procurement is helping lead the tenant search. The department promoted the space this week on social media, touting the proximity to Zoo Atlanta: “Elephant sightings are a bonus.”
The deadline to submit proposals is April 4, 2024.
The space was designed by Smith Dalia Architects and Winter Johnson Group. It’s never been occupied, but residents have enjoyed the greenspace next to it as a park.
According to the U.S. Green Building Council, the structure was the first project in the world to achieve LEED certification, SITES certification for sustainable landscape development and Parksmart certification for the parking garage. It received an Award of Excellence from the Atlanta Urban Design Commission for sustainable design in 2022.
The city took ownership of the space from the Atlanta and Fulton County Recreation Authority last year. This is the second time proposals have been sought for the space; an attempt last year yielded none, according to Urbanize Atlanta.
