Buyout Deal Reached With Remaining Stadium Church

In a press conference at City Hall, a delighted Reed said the deal makes it likely the stadium will be built just south of the Georgia Dome, closer to MARTA rail stations.

“The folks who want to use public transit, get off at a MARTA station, and then be allowed to walk to the game rather than having to walk a mile have that opportunity…That’s the right thing to do for the city of Atlanta and it’s the right thing to do for the metro region.”

In July, talks between state officials and Mt. Vernon Baptist Church broke down after church leaders rejected the state’s final $6.2 million offer. Since then, Reed and former Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young have taken over as lead negotiators.

“I really think we’ve accomplished what we’ve accomplished today in the Atlanta way. Folks are here because they want to be here,” said Reed.

Mt. Vernon leaders ultimately approved a deal for $14.5 million. The state is expected to cover $6.2 million and the Falcons will cover the rest. Mt. Vernon’s congregation will cast a final vote on the tentative deal next Thursday.

“Our membership has been at the table from the very beginning so we believe that Thursday that the right decision will be made and that everybody will be satisfied with the outcome of it,” said Mt. Vernon pastor Rodney Turner.

Meanwhile, the congregation of the other church on the south site – Friendship Baptist – is expected to vote later this month on its tentative buyout agreement of $19.5 million.

Mayor Reed said both deals commit the city to helping the churches relocate and remain a presence in the community.

“What we believe we’re doing is energizing and strengthening these institutions that have been doing work in English Avenue and Vine City for years,” said Reed.

At the same time, the city continues work with neighborhood leaders to hammer out a $30 million community benefits package, a process that must be completed before the city can release $200 million in hotel/motel tax funds to help build the stadium. 

The next community benefits committee meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18.