Neighborhood Housing And Community Transformation
The neighborhood contains the former Amal Heights community at 1700 Giben Road, which was redeveloped into townhome living known as the Villas at Lakewood. Hercules Real Estate Services acquired the site in 2007 and concluded major renovations with public financing and Low Income Housing Tax Credits. In 2022, Invest Atlanta approved a change of ownership to Starwood Capital Group to preserve 192 units of affordable housing at the property. The townhome residences feature three-bedroom layouts that received new energy-efficient HVAC units, water heaters, windows, siding, exterior doors, and roofs. Interior renovations brought upgraded bathrooms with new vanities, fresh flooring, modern lighting, and kitchens fitted with new cabinets, countertops, and appliances. Beyond this multi-family hub, neighborhood homes are decently maintained and have historically held values largely ranging from $50,000 to $80,000.
Parks And Neighborhood Recreation
Amal Heights is nestled between three major public green spaces that provide easy access for outdoor enthusiasts. Perkerson Park is situated a short distance away and offers a wide range of recreational activities for residents. Arthur Langford Jr. Park is also located nearby, adding further outdoor space to the immediate surroundings. Outdoor lovers can additionally visit nearby Adair Park for recreational outings and open spaces. Within the Giben Road complex, residents have access to dedicated walking paths featuring exercise stations and a fenced community garden with gardening tools. The grounds at that property also feature a playground, an outside pavilion with barbecue facilities, and an arts-and-crafts activity center.
Surrounding Schools, Dining, And Transit Access
Families moving into Amal Heights have access to several nearby educational facilities that receive community praise. Local elementary options include Slater Elementary, Perkerson Elementary, Dobbs Elementary, and D. H. Stanton Elementary. The subdivision sits directly alongside Interstate 85, providing drivers with quick vehicular connections south of downtown Atlanta. Its geographic location also places residents in convenient proximity to the nearby airport. When dining out close to home, locals can visit Trackside restaurant for its popular southern recipes and flair. Another nearby dining choice is Mykonos Grill, which offers Greek cuisine to neighborhood patrons.