Atlanta and Charlotte’s parallels, Ja Rule on NFTs, and redeveloping Gwinnett Place Mall

August 19th, 2022

On this edition of “Closer Look,” Atlanta could learn a few lessons in land use and development from one of the other fastest-growing metros in the nation: Charlotte, North Carolina.

As both cities continue to be challenged with sustainable development and affordable housing needs, the Charlotte City Council is preparing to vote on a nearly 700-page “Unified Development Ordinance” to shape the city’s growth.

Steve Harrison, political reporter at NPR member station WFAE, gives an overview of the similarities between each city’s land use and development issues, from addressing affordable housing preservation to incentivizing multi-family buildings.

Also, hip-hop artist Ja Rule talks about his new collection of NFTs, “Black is Beautiful,” and why he’s donating a portion of its proceeds toward Spelman and Morehouse colleges and other HBCUs.

Then, Gwinnett Place Community Improvement District executive director Joe Allen shares details on the forthcoming redevelopment of Gwinnett Place Mall. Allen says he hopes the nearly vacant mall will get a second life with new housing and a less car-centric environment for residents.