Report: developers aiming for "mixed-income village" around Atlanta Falcons' new stadium

The hype surrounding the Atlanta Falcons' new stadium is extraordinary. From a 100 yard bar to technology that would overwhelm even the most enthusiastic Pokemon Go player, it's going to be a sight to see.

But as we know, the idea that new stadiums automatically enhance commerce in the communities that surround them is overstated and not actually supported by empirical evidence. That's why it's good to see a deliberate, careful effort to plan out the Mercedes-Benz Stadium's immediate surroundings.

The $150-million, mixed-use masterplan calls for a variety of about 700 new housing units, with commercial facilities, communal spaces, a new fitness center, and retail offerings dotted throughout. The village would rise along Northside Drive — on the 12-acre site of the former Herndon Homes public housing project — about mile north of the Atlanta Falcons' new roost.

In many ways it sounds like they what they're aiming for in Cobb County when the Braves relocate next season. The noteworthy difference here is obvious: this will impact downtown Atlanta. I'm quite sure this was part of Arthur Blank's successful Super Bowl pitch and it sounds like a solid plan to me. Your thoughts?