Last updated: August 2025
Maintained by: Office of Communications, City of Atlanta
Our Purpose
ATL Direct is the official civic newsroom of the City of Atlanta.
Our purpose is to inform, inspire, and involve Atlantans through accurate, human-centered storytelling that reflects the people, progress, and programs shaping our city.
We believe government communication should build trust, foster engagement, and connect public service to everyday life. This platform exists to share what is working, where we are growing, and how residents can be part of the change.
Our Mission
To make the work of local government visible, accessible, and meaningful for all Atlantans.
What We Publish
ATL Direct features content from across all departments, offices, and partner entities. While content varies in format and tone, every story supports one of the following editorial goals:
- Highlight civic programs, services, or improvements
- Share updates and milestones on infrastructure, housing, and citywide initiatives
- Introduce public servants and elevate community voices
- Provide accurate information about policy changes and service disruptions
- Celebrate Atlanta’s legacy, neighborhoods, and innovation
Our editorial categories include:
- Progress in Action
- Pathway Home
- Road to FIFA
- Small Business Spotlight
- Infrastructure & Transportation
- Health & Safety
- Equity & Inclusion
- Arts, Culture & Events
- Youth and Education
- Civic Innovation
Editorial Values
Accuracy
All content must be rooted in facts, sourced through official city information or verified partnerships.
Clarity
We write in plain language that is easy to understand. Residents should never feel talked down to or confused by jargon.
Accessibility
We consider language, visuals, and readability in every story. Stories are crafted to be understood by all ages, education levels, and backgrounds.
Civic Voice
Our tone is informative, warm, and human—not promotional or political. Stories should connect back to the people being served.
Representation
We are committed to ensuring Atlanta’s diversity is reflected in the stories we tell, the voices we quote, and the neighborhoods we feature.
Trust and Transparency
We are open about our sources and our purpose. We publish contact information or links to more details where appropriate.
Style and Formatting
- Articles prioritize first-person perspectives and direct quotes from residents or staff
- Headlines aim to spark interest and clarity, not sensationalism
- Visuals should support the story and reflect authentic Atlanta moments
- Tags and categories must align with approved site architecture for easy navigation
- AI-generated assistance may be used for formatting or structuring but always reviewed by human editors
Publishing Process
- Content is submitted by departments, PIOs, or editorial partners
- The editorial team reviews for tone, accuracy, grammar, and alignment with principles
- Final review by the Office of Communications
- Content is published on ATL Direct and linked across platforms where appropriate
Technology and Innovation
ATL Direct is more than a news blog. The platform is powered by a secure, scalable content management system and hosted in a cloud environment designed for uptime, speed, and accessibility.
Key innovations include:
- Dynamic microsites for priority initiatives such as homelessness and FIFA 2026
- Interactive content formats including data visualizations and embedded video
- Automated update pipelines for real-time metrics on civic dashboards
- Emergency pop-ups and banner messaging for urgent resident alerts
Resident Feedback
ATL Direct is for the people of Atlanta.
We welcome feedback, corrections, or suggestions. Residents can submit story ideas or comments via the contact form at www.atl.direct or through the Office of Communications.
