Atlanta Mayor discusses federal funding, upgrading city infrastructure at annual press club event

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens joined the Atlanta Press Club in Buckhead to answer questions about Beltline rail development, accessing federal funding, upgrading city water infrastructure, and 2026 World Cup preparations.

The conversation was led by Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Riley Bunch.

The city has launched the Showcase Atlanta plan to ensure local businesses benefit financially from large events like the World Cup. Atlanta will host 8 matches including a semi-final match.

“We have determined that it's about $1 billion in economic development that will happen in the city of Atlanta in that time, which is huge, Dickens said. “So we are preparing the infrastructure, the safety, security, all of those things that we have to do for the Peach Bowl, for the SEC Championship, for the college football championship, for a very Super Bowl.”

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Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens speaks to members of the Atlanta Press Club on March 27, 2025.

Credit: Pamela Kirkland / GPB

Atlanta is also working to repair and replace its aging water system following multiple outages so it can improve quality of life and handle the incoming soccer fans. Dickens said he is trying to avoid charging raising water bills for residents to cover repairs.

“We could surely increase the rates to cover this and bond it, etc., but we'd much rather try to get help from the federal government," he said. “Because the city of Atlanta is in the state of Georgia, is in the United States, and we are a consequential city to this country's safety. This is a matter of national security. It's a matter of health and human rights, you know, to have fresh water. So we are pleading with the federal government.”

Dickens said he also plans to work across party lines to secure funding for water infrastructure upgrades.

“Our goal is still the same, but our strategies might change. We're going to be working with state leaders that have great relationships with federal leaders," he said. 

The city estimates it will spend 2 billion dollars over the next 20 years to replace pipes and other water assets.