Community Renewal Good Stories - Atlanta

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HUD Tax Incentive Program Helps Turn Dilapidated Buildings Into World-class Academy

Atlanta, Georgia, Renewal Community

Ron Clark was a passionate and innovative teacher who left his small hometown to teach in one of Harlem's toughest schools. Mr. Clark used unconventional methods, including his ground-breaking classroom rules, to drive his students in New York City to their greatest potential. 

When Mr. Clark wanted to open his own school, he chose a location in the Atlanta Renewal Community (RC).  HUD designated 40 RCs in 2001 in urban and rural areas experiencing high rates of unemployment and poverty.  Located in South Atlanta, the site for the new school consisted of several buildings previously owned by a tent and awning company.  The building was not occupied at the time of purchase and the facility was in a state of total disrepair with broken windows, collapsing structures and torn awnings.

With the assistance of a 2006 Commercial Revitalization Deduction in the amount of $2.9 million, awarded through the HUD Renewal Community program, Mr. Clark turned the dilapidated buildings into a state-of-the-art learning institution.  Commercial Revitalization Deduction allocations enable owners to accelerate the rate at which they depreciate construction and substantial rehabilitation costs.  The Ron Clark Academy is now a thriving 5th - 8th grade middle school that offers underprivileged students a world class education.  The Academy is a magical place where children experience the true joy that comes with learning.  The teachers teach in innovative, creative and inspiring ways and empower youth to take charge of their own destinies, reach their goals, and fulfill their dreams with compassion, integrity and honor.

For more information on the programs of the Atlanta RC, contact Lisa Hawkins, at (404) 522-3970.