ATLANTA — As demolition begins at the former Atlanta Medical Center, some Old Fourth Ward residents are raising concerns about the lack of plans for a new medical facility.

The 25-acre site is being cleared for a large mixed-use development. While local leaders and neighborhood groups support the redevelopment, some longtime residents, many who are uninsured, say the absence of healthcare services is troubling.

Tom Boyle, president of the Old Fourth Ward Neighborhood Association, said the community is optimistic. “The plans are in place. Obviously they are conceptual, but we’re excited about the plans at a very high level.”

Atlanta City Council President Doug Shipman acknowledged the concern, saying, “There is still a need for healthcare access on that site.”

Some nearby businesses are hopeful the new development will bring back foot traffic lost when the hospital closed in 2022. City officials say demolition will take several more months, with redevelopment to follow over the coming years.

WSB’s Michelle Wright contributed to this story