Roadblock for TD Jakes Partnership Doesn’t Stop Tyler Perry’s Entertainment District Progress

Tyler Perry is poised to further rejuvenate East Point, Atlanta, with an ambitious entertainment district. This locale already houses his expansive 330-acre studio, previously part of the Army's Fort McPherson base.In 2022, the filmmaker acquired an additional 37.5 acres adjacent to Tyler Perry Studios for $85 million, intending to craft a mixed-use space featuring a park, retail outlets, a theater, parking, and office environments.According to Urbanize Atlanta, in mid-July, Perry’s team filed paperwork for a Development of Regional Impact (DRI) review for the expansive 1.3 million square foot plans, aiming to expedite the project with minimal pushback.However, progress hit a snag earlier in April when Bishop T.D. Jakes’ real estate venture notified the McPherson Implementing Local Redevelopment Authority that negotiations needed further attention. Jakes had previously acquired 94.5 acres for workforce housing initiatives.Perry's projected completion date is January 2028. If successful, both visions could turn Southwest Atlanta into a vibrant entertainment sector similar to Fayetteville's Town at Trilith. Credits: (Wikipedia)