Business Leadership Speaks Up In Support Of DeKalb Land Swap

DEKALB COUNTY, GA — Katerina Taylor, president and CEO of DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, has released a letter of support for the land exchange between Blackhall Studios and DeKalb County. In a letter dated July 8, Taylor states, “DeKalb County is in a unique position to propel the film and entertainment industry. We believe this land exchange will serve as a major economic development initiative in South DeKalb and the surrounding region, thus providing a much-needed supply chain development opportunity for DeKalb County and metro Atlanta.”

Blackhall Studios has proposed exchanging 53 acres of undeveloped land for 48 acres of land located in a corner of Intrenchment Creek Park, which include a total of 125 acres. The exchange would provide Blackhall with room for expansion while connecting Intrenchment Creek and Gresham Parks.

The DeKalb chamber noted the economic benefits this land exchange would bring. “The film and entertainment industry has played an important role in Georgia’s economy, generating $9.5 billion in total economic impact in FY2018,” Taylor wrote. “Since opening its studio production in 2017, Blackhall Studios has spurred economic growth to south DeKalb and created nearly 1,000 jobs. Their expansion plans will add another 1,000 jobs. Some of these jobs may require new skills and Blackhall plans to partner with McNair High School to add film, media and A/V production to its curriculum.”

With a petition of more than 800 signatures, several neighborhoods and organizations have spoken out in support of “The Great Park Connection” movement. One such organization is the South Metro CID, in which Blackhall Studios is located. President Emory Morsberger said, “Our mission is to improve the environment for doing business within the South Metro CID. Ryan Millsap represents the kind of business leader we’re looking for. Now and in the future, what Blackhall is bringing to DeKalb County could not be more important to our economic development. The fact that they are expanding is incredible for the South Metro CID, for the county, and for the state. We are solidly behind this land exchange.”

The leadership at Blackhall Studios was pleased with the endorsements. “All in all, we are on the right track to support the new park effort and expand our facilities, giving back a lot in the way of economic impact, property tax, new jobs, and a contribution of enhancements in the new section of the parks,”said CEO Ryan Millsap.