Ralph David Abernathy Complete Street Meeting II

June 22, 2017

The second Ralph David Abernathy Complete Streets meeting was held on June 22, 2017 at KIPP STRIVE Academy. Attendees were split into three groups to visualize and provide input on the design of Ralph David Abernathy Blvd between Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and Cascade Avenue.

Project History
In 2014 Westview residents made a big impact when they came out in large numbers to request improvements in the neighborhood at a series of Infrastructure Bond meetings. The City of Atlanta listened and included a number of Westview projects on the list, including making Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard a “complete street” between Cascade Avenue and Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive.

What is a Complete Street?
“Complete Streets are streets for everyone. They are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities. Complete Streets make it easy to cross the street, walk to shops, and bicycle to work.” (Renew Atlanta)

Repaving
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has undergone the design process to repave and restripe Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard. This will result in a safer Westview Village due to traffic calming measures through reduced driving lanes, added on-street parking spots, and added bicycle lanes.

Sidewalks/Streetscape
The City of Atlanta has hired the Atlanta BeltLine to facilitate the design process of creating a more pedestrian-friendly area along the road.