The long-planned redevelopment of an ailing shopping center in Sandy Springs’ northern reaches scored a financial boost this week that puts groundbreaking on the horizon, per city officials. 

The Sandy Springs City Council approved incentives Tuesday totaling $4.3 million to support Charleston-based Woodfield Development’s planned mixed-use remake of North River Shopping Center, a strip mall with sprawling parking lots just south of the Chattahoochee River.  

Woodfield—the firm behind Southwest Atlanta’s forthcoming Woodrow House district, the 505 Courtland tower, and other ITP projects—is planning to redevelop the 8830 Roswell Road shopping center into a new neighborhood as part of the city’s years-long efforts to revitalize its North End. 

Specifically, Woodfield’s plans call for 336 multifamily residences, 85 for-sale townhomes, new shopping options, restaurants, and a centerpiece public park, all built over multiple phases. 

A planned residential facet and greenspace at the North River Shopping Center redevelopment. Courtesy of Woodfield Development

State of the Roswell Road shopping center in January, prior to more recent demolition at the section at right. Google Maps

The handful of North River Shopping Center tenants today include a Dollar General, gaming store, salon, and liquor store, with large sections of the strip mall sitting empty or demolished. It was most recently anchored by family entertainment concept and bowling alley Stars and Strikes.   

Woodfield plans to spearhead the strip mall’s redevelopment, with roughly 8 of its 13 acres currently under contract. 

The $4.3-million incentive package approved by Sandy Springs includes waiving the city’s recreation impact and permit fees. The city council has also recommended the Sandy Springs Development Authority authorize a 10-year property tax abatement. That’s all contingent on demolition of the current strip mall, construction of new buildings as approved by the city, and the opening of the .71-acre greenspace that Woodfield plans to deed to the city. 

Ultimately, the city-maintained park will include two playgrounds, shaded “porch seating,” restrooms, open turf, native landscaping, and a flex space for live music and other neighborhood programming, according to city officials. 

North River Shopping Center's 8830 Roswell Road location near the Chattahoochee River, north of Interstate 285. Google Maps

Sandy Springs’ planning efforts for the shopping center and nearby areas date back to 2018. A formal North End Revitalization Plan that included the shopping center’s remake was revealed six years ago.

Attributes of the site include walkability to the Chattahoochee River and nearby trails, along with existing retail along the corridor.  

Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin later this year. 

Sandy Springs officials are optimistic the pedestrian-friendlier project will prove a catalyst for more investment in what’s considered one of the city’s most strategic redevelopment areas. It “represents the vision we’ve had for the North End for years,” said Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul in an announcement. 

“We have tremendous confidence in Sandy Springs and are excited to make a significant long-term investment in the North End,” added Woodfield’s Patrick Kassin. “[We] look forward to transforming North River into a vibrant, walkable neighborhood and gathering place.”

North River Shopping Center's main entry in early 2026. Google Maps

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