The future of the West End Mall remains a mystery, but new mayor Andre Dickens is in no rush to break ground.
The 61st mayor visited the Closer Look Podcast last week, and discussed a myriad of topics, including his plan to invest $20 million in early childhood education, and the ongoing housing dispute in Peoplestown.
Host, Rose Scott, also asked the southwest Atlanta native about his plans and desires for the West End Mall. The mall has had three potential buyers who have recently entered into negotiations with the mall's owners, but none of them have been able to make a deal.
Dickens stated that he wants to see a major development at the site, that will include housing, new retail, office space, and maybe even a hotel.
Residents of the West End and surrounding areas have voiced concerns about the pending revitalization of the mall, specifically around how the multi-million dollar upgrades will affect longtime residents.
Dickens emphasized that he won't be moving forward with a new buyer, until said buyer receives the community's approval.
"Rest assured, why we have not moved all the way forward with a new buyer just yet, is because I want to make sure that the community says yes to them," Dickens stated. "This is important to Atlanta. This is legacy."