Seeks to acknowledge importance of trail development in DeKalb and set aside dedicated funding commitment for strategic trail development by 2023
DeKalb County District 7 Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has introduced a resolution to the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners to adopt a comprehensive master trail development plan.
“Trails and greenspaces are an integral part of DeKalb’s future,” said Commissioner Cochran-Johnson. “They are of the utmost importance for enhancing the quality of life for DeKalb County citizens by improving health, promoting clean air, protecting the environment, providing an alternative transportation system, stimulating economic development and creating a renewed sense of community. It is time we have a firm plan and commitment through dedicated, set-aside funds to complete our trails.”
In 2000, DeKalb County adopted the DeKalb Greenway Trails Master Plan in partnership with the PATH Foundation, a 502 c (3), nonprofit organization with a mission to develop a system of multi-use trails through metro Atlanta and the region, that aided in the establishment of a trail system consisting of 127 miles of greenways.
This plan was inspired by the Georgia Community Greenspace Program which was passed into law under Gov. Roy Barnes in 2000 to encourage Georgia counties to voluntarily set aside 20 percent of land for greenspace in response to the growing population and urbanization.
Commissioner Cochran-Johnson’s resolution stipulates that DeKalb County update the existing Master Trail Plan for the purpose of protecting the natural environment and resources incorporated in existing trails, as well as adding new trails and access points.
The plan will connect to the North Fork Peachtree Creek Trail, South Peachtree Creek Path Trail, Peachtree Creek Greenway, Arabia Mountain Path, Atlanta Beltline, as well as other major trailways, and acquire land and open space as necessary to conserve greenspace and build a comprehensive network of trails.
In addition, the updated plan will incorporate public participation and create equitable and inclusive trail development in DeKalb County using data and public engagement to identify areas in need of trails and greenways, as well as cost and work to be undertaken to establish firm timelines for trail development.
The Comprehensive Master Trail Development Plan will also research and recommend a dedicated funding source and account through the use of 10 percent of hotel/motel tax fund monies to be set aside in addition to other funding mechanisms including 5 percent of SPLOST capital.
“Our hotel/motel funds and SPLOST provide the perfect opportunity to grow our trail network,” said Commissioner Cochran-Johnson. “The people of DeKalb have been consistent in their desire to see our trails complete. For those who don’t understand the impact of trails, just look at the Atlanta Beltline. Through dedicated funds we can connect our trails to the 22-mile continuous loop provided by the Beltline. It’s time we are intentional with our development of paths and trails and their future is not left to discretionary funding sources.”
The Comprehensive Master Trail Development plan is expected to be presented at the Planning Economic Development & Community Services Committee to the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners at the March 8 meeting and, if approved, completed by 2023.
For more information or to schedule an interview with Commissioner Cochran-Johnson, email amslocum@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 470-889-4213.
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