South DeKalb Sees Renewed Investment as Business Leaders and Advocates Place Their Bets

July 5, 2026 - 21:58

A new tax allocation district grant is breathing life into the Memorial Drive corridor in DeKalb County, following the closure of the Belvedere Plaza Kroger last year. The grocery store's departure left a noticeable gap in the area, but local business leaders and community advocates are now betting on a turnaround.

The grant, part of a broader TAD initiative, aims to attract new commercial development and address long-standing vacancies along the busy stretch. Supporters say the funding will help leverage private investment, create jobs, and improve access to fresh food and retail options for residents. The Belvedere Plaza site, once a hub for shoppers, has become a symbol of the economic challenges facing south DeKalb, but also an opportunity for reimagining.

Advocates have been pushing for targeted resources in the area for years, arguing that the corridor has been overlooked despite its potential. With the TAD award, they see a chance to reverse disinvestment and build momentum. Local officials are also backing the effort, emphasizing that the grant is just one piece of a larger strategy to revitalize the community. While the Kroger closure was a setback, the focus now is on what comes next. Business leaders are optimistic that the new funding will spark a wave of development, from mixed-use projects to smaller retail spaces, making south DeKalb a more attractive destination for both entrepreneurs and families. The coming months will be critical as plans take shape and the first signs of progress emerge along Memorial Drive.