New Markets Tax Credit: A Lifeline for Underserved Communities in Georgia

The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) program has emerged as a critical tool for economic development in underserved urban and rural communities, with a recent project in Atlanta's West Lake neighborhood serving as a prime example of its transformative potential.

The Heritage Village @ West Lake project, a full rehabilitation of the historic Waluhaje Apartments, showcases how strategic investments can breathe new life into communities with rich cultural histories. Once a landmark for Black performers and travelers during segregation, the site has been restored into a 102-unit residential complex that preserves its historical significance while providing modern, affordable housing.

Through a $11 million NMTC allocation and a $12.3 million bridge loan from Truist Community Capital, the project partners Quest Community Development and Columbia Residential have created a comprehensive community resource. The development not only offers stable housing but also integrates healthcare and job readiness services for vulnerable populations.

The broader impact of the NMTC program is substantial. Nationally, it has generated over $135 billion in capital investment and created more than one million jobs. In Georgia specifically, the program has supported 171 projects, adding 16,300 permanent jobs and 15,500 temporary construction jobs, with $4.8 billion in total project financing through 2023.

Currently, the NMTC program is set to expire in 2025. Bipartisan legislation has been introduced in both the Senate and House to make the program permanent, which would provide long-term certainty for investments in marginalized communities. The Heritage Village project exemplifies how such targeted economic development can reconstruct neighborhoods, honor historical legacies, and create meaningful opportunities for residents.