ATL Standard

Branch Properties has acquired 4.4 acres of land for a new Publix grocery store in Atlanta's Summerhill neighborhood, according to a company press release.

"I have been a long-time advocate for PittsburghATL having a grocery store like Kroger, Publix, Etc., knowing it would transform our community into a cleaner, safer, inclusive community. I still hope this happens. Congrats Summerhill," tweeted Tone Lane, co-founder of Pittsburgh Homeowners United.

The grocery store will be built on Hank Aaron Drive across the street from Georgia State University's stadium, according to WSB-TV.

The 50,000-square-foot grocery store will exhibit the traditional Publix layout, with pharmacy and deli with seating, WSB-TV reported. 

Branch bought the land from Carter, which is redeveloping the surrounding 19-block area into a hub for retail, dining, housing and offices, according to the release.

"We are thrilled to pass this milestone in our vision to bring the Summerhill neighborhood a much-needed, accessible retail destination with a quality grocery store option," Branch Chief Investment Officer Jesse Shannon said in the release. "Carter has continued to make significant investments in the community, and Branch is proud to be a partner in the ongoing story of the area."

The Publix is expected to open in 2023, WSB-TV said. 

"We are excited to partner with Branch to lead the development of the Publix center in Summerhill," Scott Taylor, president and CEO of Carter, said in the release. "We believe their expertise and experience in building best-in-class retail centers will bring a development of the highest quality to the neighborhood." 

Stores adjacent to the future Publix include Big Softie, Little Tart Bakeshop and Wood's Chapel BBQ, all of which are part of the recently redeveloped Georgia Avenue, WSB-TV reported.