The Athens-Clarke County government is reaching out to the public for feedback on the North Avenue corridor improvements, as reported yesterday. These transport changes aim to enhance pedestrian and cycling infrastructure between North Avenue's intersection with Willow Street and its meeting with Freeman Drive, covering around 1.2 miles.
Next Tuesday, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., an open house event is set to unfold at the Boys and Girls Club of Athens, located at 705 Fourth Street. Attendants can review the proposed changes just prior to the public meeting, maps and additional information on the Athens-Clarke County website. Residents wishing to follow updates can register for email or text message notifications. Ensuring inclusivity, Spanish interpreters will be on hand during the event to assist with language barriers.
As elaborated on the Athens-Clarke County website, the U.S. Department of Transportation has allotted $25 million from its RAISE Discretionary Grant Program to this venture. It represents one of the largest federal grants Athens-Clarke County has procured. These funds are designated to elevate the transportation system by making it safer, more accessible, economical, and in alignment with sustainability practices.
Initiated by an early round of public engagement in 2023, this initiative gathered community feedback to shape potential design options. With a proposed start date in the fall of 2026, about two years of planning and feedback have been incorporated into the improvement plan. Residents can share their opinions at the open house, through an online survey available on the county's website until November 1, or by calling a designated voicemail line at 762-400-8373 to leave a message in English or Spanish.
For more information or to share input directly with the Athens-Clarke County Transportation and Public Works Department, community members can call 706-613-3440 or communicate via email at [email protected].
