From the Show Versus Tell newsletter by Jon Birdsong, CEO of SoDo Atlanta — Volume 2, Month 3 (April 2025)
434 days until the World Cup kicks off. Eight games expected to draw 3.5 million visitors to Atlanta. Each match has the economic impact of one Super Bowl across 30 days of World Cup activity.
Homelessness & Nomenclature
SoDo introduced the term "crisis population" to describe the approximately 1% of individuals experiencing homelessness who are services-resistant and not yet housing-ready but are highly visible downtown. The term has been in use for 16 months.
Safety & Security
Officer Blue transitioned to a Security Lead role, participating in weekly team meetings and practicing community policing throughout the neighborhood.
Community
El Tesoro — Alan Raines' beloved Mexican restaurant announced expansion to South Downtown, generating significant social media engagement.
Crates ATL — Described as "downtown's only vinyl shop," owner Darryl Harris held a sneak peek on Friday, April 11th from noon to 4 PM, with the grand opening on Saturday, April 19th.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Forsyth Street was led by Councilman Jason Dozier.
Downtown Day at the State Capitol brought together local leaders and lobbyists including Beth McKibben, Winter Johnson, and Jaren Abedania from ADID and PropelATL.
Development
Broad Street facade restoration is underway. The 1996-built follies (decorative structures) are being removed and repurposed for bike parking. Multiple permits have been submitted to City Hall's Office of Buildings. The Von Hollen family building is transitioning to new ownership with a long-term vision.
Source: Show Versus Tell Newsletter