Author: ATL Direct Staff

AFRD Earns Prestigious Reaccreditation The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) has once again achieved accredited agency status from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), marking nearly 23 years of continuous excellence. This rare distinction reflects AFRD’s commitment to innovation, safety, and strategic service. The reaccreditation process involved comprehensive evaluations, including new training initiatives, audits, and leadership development programs. In response to a city fleet maintenance audit released in August 2024, AFRD proactively addressed additional data requests, demonstrating transparency and dedication to meeting all expectations. In May 2025, AFRD will launch its new Office of Governance, ensuring continued accountability and…

Thriving Together Atlanta unveiled a powerful new mural in the Old Fourth Ward, created by artist Craig ‘Flux’ Singleton, to promote unity and address public health disparities. The community-driven artwork reflects the neighborhood’s history, culture, and hopes for a healthier, more connected Atlanta.

A modern facility built for a safer Atlanta After years of planning, dialogue, and determined effort, the City of Atlanta has officially opened its new Public Safety Training Center—a state-of-the-art facility designed to transform how the city’s first responders are trained and how communities engage with public safety. At the opening ceremony, Mayor Andre Dickens stood before a crowd of civic leaders, first responders, and residents, acknowledging the long and often challenging road that led to this moment. “Getting to here has not been easy,” he said, noting the misinformation, opposition, and adversity faced along the way. “But I will not relive…

The Atlanta Police Department (APD) issued a public clarification today following reports of an officer-involved shooting (OIS) and heightened police activity in the area of 3657 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive NW. According to an official statement released by APD, while Atlanta officers are on-site assisting with the situation, the incident in question does not involve the Atlanta Police Department. “APD remains committed to supporting the many law enforcement partners operating within our jurisdiction,” the department stated, emphasizing their support role in the matter. Details surrounding the shooting have not yet been released, and APD is directing all inquiries to…

Atlanta has achieved a significant milestone in supporting minority-owned businesses. In 2024, Invest Atlanta reported that 62% of its total capital investments were directed toward disinvested neighborhoods, reflecting a strong commitment to economic equity. ​ Invest Atlanta’s Open for Business Fund is reshaping the future of minority-owned businesses in metro Atlanta. — Invest Atlanta Impact & Insights Report The Atlanta Open for Business Fund, backed by a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo in partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta, has been instrumental in this achievement. The fund supports small business owners by investing in assets such as…

Once upon a time in South Atlanta, the rhythm of daily life flowed through the doors of small, corner grocery stores. In neighborhoods like Lakewood Heights, images of the Colonial Grocery Store weren’t just snapshots in time—they were reflections of a thriving, connected community. These stores didn’t just sell bread and milk. They offered dignity, convenience, and a sense of home. In early 2025, Focused Community Strategies (FCS), the nonprofit organization that operates Carver Market, was awarded a $50,000 grant from Invest Atlanta. This support helped strengthen the market’s infrastructure and further its mission of food access and community revitalization.…

On a pivotal afternoon at the RM Clayton Water Reclamation Center, the City of Atlanta welcomed officials, community members, and the press to deliver an important update on the state of the city’s largest wastewater treatment plant. The event served as both a progress report and a forward-looking vision under the leadership of the newly appointed Commissioner Greg Eyerly of the Department of Watershed Management. “We invited you here to show you—not just tell you—how far we’ve come, and where we’re going,” began the opening address from city leadership. “RM Clayton is a critical piece of Atlanta’s infrastructure. And we’re…

The inaugural 404 Day Kickoff brought the community together to honor the people, places, and powerful voices that define Atlanta. Hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Film, Entertainment & Nightlife in collaboration with ATL Direct, this event was a love letter to the culture—raw, real, and radiant. A Celebration of Legacy and Love From West End to Edgewood, from Bankhead to Buckhead, 404 isn’t just an area code—it’s a bond. On 404 Day, Atlanta came out in full force to honor that bond with live music, food, fashion, vendors, and moments that reminded us all why Atlanta leads with heart.…

On March 20, the City of Atlanta marked a historic milestone with the ribbon-cutting of Red’s Farm Preserve—the city’s first official urban farm. Founded in the 1990s by Brian “Farmer Red” Harrison, the farm began as a personal project to reclaim overgrown lots in Ormewood Park and transform them into a vibrant, green community hub. Today, that same space is being preserved and expanded as a city-supported project that blends urban agriculture, environmental education, and neighborhood connection. “This farm started with a vision for better land use, better food access, and a stronger sense of community,” said a city official.…

First launched while Mayor Andre Dickens was a city councilmember, the program has grown into a cornerstone initiative for youth engagement, violence prevention, and community connection. It now plays a critical role in Atlanta’s broader public safety and youth development strategy. “This program has become a gathering place for the whole community—mothers, sons, kids, grandparents—all enjoying the game together,” said Mayor Dickens at a recent championship event. “Midnight Basketball isn’t just about the sport—it’s about the connection it builds across generations.” A Safe Space to Thrive Since its early days, Midnight Basketball has shown real impact, particularly in neighborhoods where…