Atlanta's Memorial Drive is set for a green revamp, with the City Department of Parks and Recreation kicking off the design phase of the Memorial Drive Greenway, a project that aims to transform a half-mile stretch of underutilized land into a dynamic park. This new greenway aims to stretch from the Oakland Cemetery to downtown's edge, reported the City of Atlanta's website.
Based on the 2016 Memorial Drive Vision Plan, the greenway initiative will revitalize nearly 8.5 acres to create a greenspace framed by significant landmarks and will incorporate sustainable strategies for stormwater management and native plantings, the design phase implemented by Pond & Company, who will work with the City and the community in shaping the future of this project. According to Mayor Andre Dickens, the project embodies the Administration's vision for a sustainable Atlanta and will benefit neighborhoods by providing access to quality parks and greenspace, said Mayor Andre Dickens.
The initiative received financial backing, including $560,037 from Council District 5's discretionary funds and $500,000 from the parks department's improvement fund, to kickstart its pilot implementation. Partners such as Pond & Company, Dan Kurzius of Mailchimp, The Integral Group, Park Pride, the Friends of Memorial Drive Greenway, and The Conservation Fund have also joined the project, a collaboration intending to foster community well-being and connectivity, according to a statement from Councilmember Liliana Bakhtiari, the park is not just for the current residents but designed with future generations in mind. The collaboration aims to embody inclusivity and innovation while focusing on equity and shared community experience, Bakhtiari emphasized.
Announcements and updates will be consistently posted on the City of Atlanta Parks and Recreation website and spread across local community channels for broader reach and engagement.
