ATLANTA (Jan. 21, 2025) – Atlanta developer The Integral Group, in partnership with Wellstar Health System, announced the selection of
Ferma Corporation
to lead the next phase of the former Atlanta Medical Center campus redevelopment. Ferma is a nationally recognized leader in demolition services with over 50 years of experience that will lead a team of demolition specialists including local firms Trinity Green and Atlanta Demolition.
The initial phase of demolition will begin with unsafe and unusable facilities, such as the circular parking structure along the northern boundary of the site. Preliminary site preparation and environmental activities are scheduled to begin in early February. Visible demolition activities will begin upon permit issuance, which is planned for late March, and is expected to conclude by late 2025. With extensive expertise in managing projects of all sizes, Ferma ensures efficient and safe execution across all stages of redevelopment that minimizes disruptions to residents and businesses.
The contractor will be introduced to the community at the Tuesday, January 21 Old Fourth Ward Neighborhood Association meeting to share their plans, address questions, and discuss how the project will progress.
A Commitment to Community and Collaboration
The redevelopment project aligns with Wellstar’s dedication to creating healthier, more inclusive communities. The plans will reflect input from local stakeholders, ensuring the project meets the aspirations and needs of the surrounding neighborhoods.
Stephen Vault, vice president of Strategic Community Development at Wellstar, shared:
"By working together, we are creating a space that the community has said is important to them. This includes affordable housing, new street access and green spaces, retail and commercial businesses, and health and well-being resources that preserve the area’s rich history while embracing a vision for future growth."
Environmental and Safety Stewardship
Ferma Corporation and its partners are committed to sustainability by using innovative techniques to reduce waste and implement eco-friendly practices, supporting a greener future for the community. Robust safety protocols will be implemented throughout the demolition phase to protect workers, residents, and the surrounding environment.
Eric Pinckney, senior vice president at The Integral Group, added:
"The demolition phase represents the groundwork for transformation. It’s not just about clearing space; it’s about building trust and ensuring the community feels engaged and heard every step of the way. Our commitment is to deliver a redevelopment that aligns with the values and aspirations of those who live and work here."
A Trusted Team with Proven Expertise
The Ferma-led team was selected for their combination of technical expertise and commitment to community-centered practices and environmental responsibility. Their approach reflects a holistic focus on delivering safe and sustainable outcomes while fostering local collaboration. Key elements to their approach will include:
- Expertise and Community Focus: Ferma Corporation brings decades of proven experience and dedication to practices that prioritize the needs of the local community.
- Local Economic Impact: The team emphasizes hiring and training local labor, contributing to economic opportunities and workforce development within the community.
- Minimizing Disruptions: Comprehensive measures will be implemented to manage noise, dust, and traffic during the demolition phase, reducing impacts on residents and businesses.
- Sustainability Practices: Ferma prioritizes environmentally responsible operations, ensuring materials are recycled or disposed of in compliance with local and federal regulations.
- Commitment to Safety: Safety protocols are central to their work, protecting both workers and nearby residents throughout the demolition process.
Preserving Legacy and Planning for Growth
The redevelopment will thoughtfully honor the site’s historical significance, embedding its rich cultural legacy into every aspect of the project, with particular emphasis on the design of new spaces. This intentional balance of preserving the past and embracing future growth reflects a steadfast commitment to building a meaningful, inclusive future rooted in respect for the site’s heritage.
Future of the Site
The redevelopment of the former Atlanta Medical Center campus is being guided by a land-use plan unanimously approved by the Atlanta City Council with support from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and the leadership of the local neighborhood association. As stewards of the property, Wellstar is committed to ensuring the redevelopment serves the needs of Atlanta while incorporating input from residents of the surrounding neighborhood.
While additional planning is required to finalize specifics, Wellstar looks forward to partnering with the Mayor, City Council, the community, and other stakeholders to realize a shared vision for the site. This vision will honor the property’s historical significance while fostering new opportunities for growth, connectivity, and inclusivity.
