new business opportunities. The group also learned about Atlanta’s affordable housing initiatives from Matt Bedsole, leader of the Housing Innovation Lab, and Alan Ferguson, president and CEO of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity. DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSPORTATION The trip also included a session on Atlanta’s transportation systems, led by Mike Alexander, chief operating officer of the Atlanta Regional Commission, and Scott Haggard, director of government and external affairs at the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority. They discussed the development, challenges and future of transportation in Atlanta, covering topics such as MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), regional transit improvements and efforts to enhance connectivity between the city and surrounding areas. The visit ended with a session on Centennial Yards, a 50-acre redevelopment project in downtown Atlanta, led by Ben Vera, vice president of Centennial Yards Company. The project aims to transform underutilized property into spaces for business, retail, entertainment and housing. CONCLUDING INSIGHTS The final stop was Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, located in The Battery Atlanta, a mixed-use development. Lauren Abernathy, vice president of marketing for Braves Development Company, discussed how the district has contributed significantly to the region’s economy.
Throughout the trip, attendees learned valuable lessons on urban transformation, talent development, infrastructure and business growth. The visit to Atlanta has provided key takeaways to help strengthen Oklahoma City’s growth and partnerships.
Congratulations to Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! To see the schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit okcchamber.com/grandopenings. GRAND OPENINGS
Esperanza Elementary School (Garden sponsored
KOSU Public Radio 18 N. Klein Ave. OKC, OK 73106
by OKC Beautiful) 3517 S. Linn Ave. OKC, OK 73119
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