Reviving Atlanta’s Hockey Legacy
The Alpharetta Planning Commission has given the green light to a sweeping redevelopment of the North Point Mall site, earmarking a 20,000-seat arena that could become the home of a future NHL franchise for the Atlanta region.
The vision, championed by former NHL player Anson Carter and supported by the ASE Group, includes a state-of-the-art facility designed by architect Frank Gehry, complete with practice rinks, community spaces and an outdoor stadium capable of hosting soccer or lacrosse events.
Local officials say the project will be anchored by improvements to Georgia Highway 400 and expanded MARTA service, ensuring fans can reach the venue with ease, while the surrounding mixed-use development promises new retail and residential opportunities.
The proposal comes amid a renewed interest in NHL expansion, with Commissioner Gary Bettman noting that Atlanta’s market has evolved since the Flames and Thrashers left, and that ownership groups have already expressed serious intent.
A parallel effort in neighboring Forsyth County also seeks to lure an NHL team, underscoring a coordinated push across the metro area to re-establish top-flight hockey in Georgia.