ARC’s State of the Region explores regional challenges through theme of ‘Opportunity Rising’

About 1,500 metro Atlanta leaders attended the Atlanta Regional Commission’s 2026 State of the Region event on Nov. 4 to take stock of metro Atlanta and explore regional challenges through the theme of “Opportunity Rising.” In her State of the Region address, ARC Executive Director CEO Anna Roach challenged the audience to think differently about the issues facing metro Atlanta. “Let’s imagine for a moment a region where prosperity is shared across every community in metro Atlanta. Where every child has a fair shot at a good school, a good job, and a good life,” Roach said. “Now imagine this isn’t a dream we leave to the next generation, but a future that we choose together, starting today.” ARC Executive Director CEO Anna Roach (Courtesy ARC) ‘Opportunity Rising’ coalition launch During the event, Roach announced the launch of Opportunity Rising, a regional coalition focused on expanding economic mobility in a region where too many residents still face barriers to