Community Development

The Atlanta Regional Commission has developed a range of programs and initiatives designed to make the Atlanta region an even better place to live, work and play – for people of all ages and abilities. These efforts will help the region maintain a high quality of life, even as our population continues to grow and change.

Livable Centers Initiative (LCI)

Provides local jurisdictions with grants to re-envision their communities as vibrant, walkable places that offer increased mobility options and encourage healthy lifestyles.

Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP)

Offers planning and technical support to metro Atlanta communities that want to improve their quality of life.

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

Fosters economic prosperity across metro Atlanta with an emphasis on equity, resiliency, and addressing the needs of underserved communities.

Metro Atlanta Housing Strategy

Enables local governments to explore solutions to their housing affordability challenges through actionable strategies.

Developments of Regional Impact (DRI)

ARC reviews large-scale developments and other projects to identify and assess potential impacts before conflicts arise.

Culture & Community Design Program

Convenes artists, culture bearers, and planning and design professionals to develop arts and culture-focused community design projects with community organizations.

ARC’s Community Development Programs & Initiatives

Great places don’t happen by accident but require foundational change and critical improvements to address persistent challenges and growth in our region that is equitable, sustainable, and accessible for individuals across the socioeconomic spectrum. We provide a variety of planning services, programs, and technical support opportunities to make this happen, including: