New TV and film studios, mixed-use development approved for former GM plant site

DORAVILLE, Ga. — A spot thousands pass every day in metro Atlanta is finally getting some new life. The General Motors Plant will soon be transformed into a new 127-acre, mixed-use development.

The Doraville Downtown Development Authority unanimously voted Monday night to transfer the property to Gray Television. The media company wants to build what it calls a “Studio City.”

The mixed-use property would have apartments, townhomes, a hotel, 10 movie and T.V. studios, offices, retail space and also an e-gaming facility. Gray Television said the discussions on the project started in August.

“The City of Doraville is thrilled to partner with Gray Television on this historic development,” Doraville Mayor Joseph Geierman said. “We have been working with Gray for months to reimagine the old General Motors plant. Together, we have developed a plan which will attract thousands of new jobs and millions of dollars of new investments. Our plan represents a huge leap into the future of our city.”

TRENDING STORIES:

• 1 dead after plane clips power transmission line in Cave Spring, all of city loses power
• Haven’t received your stimulus check yet? Here are 5 reasons why
• Raffensperger backs new voter law despite it stripping his office of some of its power

The GM Plant opened in 1947 and operated for decades until it was shut down in 2008 as part of the automaker’s cost-cutting. Crews demolished the plant in 2015.

The site currently holds Third Rail Studios, Serta Simmons Bedding headquarters and Asbury Automotive.

Gray Television said Phase 1 construction could begin this summer. Phase 1 would include a few of the studios, residences and a pavilion with green space for live music.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

The media company plans to use some of the studios for its own productions, but companies who want to film in Georgia will be able to rent space at the other studios. Filming at the site is expected to start in 2022.

Here is a look at the renderings for the project.