THIS MORNING'S BIG BREAKFAST
| Was it new Mayor Kasim Reed who drew 1100 to Central Atlanta Progress? annual meeting this morning? Or was it legendary architect John Portman? We're conflict-averse, so we'll say it was the coffee. Regardless, the Georgia World Congress Center was packed. | |
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Eola Capital, Bowers, Carter, Barry, and Cousins flexed CRE smiles among local leaders of all trades. At the podium: CAP leaders Taylor Glover and A.J. Robinson touted improvements to the city's urban core, including renovation of the Westin Peachtree Plaza (see story below), conversion of the Winecoff Hotel into the Ellis, and the anti-panhandling initiative. Mayor Reed stressed the importance of city/state cooperation and reiterated the need for a strong transportation bill, encouraging attendees to lobby their legislators. He reassured the crowd that the BeltLine and Peachtree Streetcar will still be pursued. | |
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Mayor Reed greets John Portman, architect behind many downtown landmarks. Several other Atlanta legends were given awards, including Aaron?s chairman Charlie Loudermilk, who received the Dan Sweat Lifetime Achievement Award. Retired City Councilman Jim Maddox was also recognized for his efforts during 32 years (a record!) on the Council. | |
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Before the meeting, we found Turner Properties prez Alec Fraser(one of the morning?s emcees) with National Health Museum president David Roland discussing potential sites for the museum. | |
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Atlanta BeltLine CEO Brian Leary talks investment opportunities (mostly residential) with Urban Realty Partners' Robert Hughes. |
