ATLANTA — Atlanta is opening its first city-backed grocery store downtown, a bold move aimed at addressing food insecurity while revitalizing a historic landmark.
Azalea Fresh Market was established in response to a pressing need for more affordable food options.
It was a collaborative effort between Atlanta officials, local organizations, Savi Provisions, and Independent Grocers Alliance.
At the opening of the market on Thursday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens spoke about the food desert residents have been living in the Downtown Atlanta area along Peachtree Street.
"We have been in a food desert for far too long. We have to make sure we bring fresh food to where people are, where they live, where they go to work, and where students are — and this is the solution right here," Dickens sai