East Lake residents are proud and they have a right to be. Their community stands as a testament to the power of community and what residents can do when their minds to it. The neighborhood of East Lake, once called a “war zone” by Atlanta police because of the extreme violence and massive drug trade, now stands as a shining example of what communities can hope to be. Once the stronghold of drug lords and criminals, East Lake is now a thriving community of families and friends, local businesses and parks.
From the Ashes
In the early 1900’s, East Lake prospered as a resort community and in the following decades it played a prominent role in the sport of golf. During the 60’s and 70’s, though, East Lake underwent a major decline. Government housing was erected on to beautiful golf courses and crime ran rampant through the neighborhood. In 1995, the East Lake Foundation was established, a partnership of local residents and business owners. Through active revitalizing techniques and an attitude that would accept no less than success, the Foundation began driving the unwanted elements from the streets. East Lake, today, is a thriving community of families and businesses, all partners in keeping their area clean and free of drugs and crime. It has become one of the most prominent neighborhoods in Atlanta, with incredible employment rates, a fantastic sense of community and an overwhelming feeling of pride.
East Lake Golf
Today, the East Lake Golf Club is predominant factor in East Lakes revitalization. Through partnership programs and other programs, East Lake is becoming a place that people want to move to. Through their influence, East Lake is becoming a destination for businesses of all types, from retail stores to local entrepreneurs and even large national chains are finding the area attractive for their purposes. Golf has played a dominant role in the area for almost the entire time it has been a recognized neighborhood. The sport was once the driving industry in the area and is again assuming that role with the resurgence and revitalization of East Lake.
In the Heart of it All
East Lake allows residents to live right in the heart of Atlanta and still experience vast natural beauty through the golf courses that cover the area. Located in the city, East Lake allows residents extremely easy access to everything that Atlanta has to offer, from sports venues to art and theaters to the city’s vast number of conventions and conferences that are constantly held in Atlanta.