

[All images via S.J. Collins Enterprises.]

Construction fences have been erected on Peachtree Boulevard in Chamblee, signalling the first step in the process to convert a vacant garden center, former chemical plant and overgrown lots into Peachtree Crossing. Announced last year by developer S.J. Collins Enterprises, plans call for the development to be completed in summer 2017. Peachtree Crossing joins a growing list of active projects — including the Olmstead and Parkview on Peachtree — that could alter the identity of this ITP corridor.

Development along Peachtree Boulevard in Chamblee highlights a greater trend of major growth in the northeastern quadrant of the city's lopsided ITP circle. Serviced by the MARTA Gold Line — but not the part that is the same as the Red Line — the corridor between Buford Highway and Peachtree (Industrial) Boulevard is gaining density in the form of housing, office and shopping developments spanning from Brookhaven to Doraville. With enviable transit connectivity, proximity to Interstate 85 and a range of new projects, could Chamblee actually be turning cool? Or will Whole Foods and such suck the cool right out of it?