Seeking equitable development in a challenging affordability landscape : examining the relationship between housing prices and the Atlanta BeltLine

Abstract

A revival in linear park development has brought new open space to a growing number of communities previously characterized by low-income populations, obsolete infrastructure, and difficulties in attracting outside investment. This thesis examines the relationship between linear park development and escalation in property values using the case of the Atlanta BeltLine. Employing data from Fulton County in Georgia, I construct a linear regression model with a difference-in-difference specification to examine these effects at the point of park completion. I find notable property value appreciation effects due to the BeltLine's development, and seek to place these findings in context of larger conversations about equitable development and open space. Considering the history of the BeltLine's development, I examine ways in which Scott Campbell's conception of equity planning has been realized in Atlanta and recommend ways in which local, state, and federal government may improve equitable development planning efforts in conjunction with future open space projects.