The Dirt on PATH400
Denise Starling, executive director of Livable Buckhead, gives us the dirt on PATH400 progress.
Construction Update
Bridge with No Name: The new handrails on this high-flying bridge are finally going into place, making it much less terrifying for anyone who isn’t a fan of heights (aka “normal” people). Now, even I have to admit it feels much better up there — definitely no regrets about raising the rails and adding a sturdier design. I’ve given you some good visuals so you can experience the thrill safely from ground level. We’re close to tour-ready, but don’t pack your bags just yet.
The “Exit Ramp” of Dreams: Imagine a long, leisurely descent from the main trail down to Mountain Way Common, landing right by the construction trailer. It’s all coming together, and it’s louder than a rock concert (sorry, Luke). Workers are smashing rocks, one chunk at a time, while building yet another wall.
Fun fact: there are 3.1 miles of walls on this mile-long segment. Yes, you read that right.
Tree Time: Winter is here, so you know what that means: tree planting season! Our green-thumbed neighbor, Ed Castro, and his team are diving in with an all-native plant palette; which while good for the environment, I personally find as exciting as a salad without dressing. Sorry, arborists, but pearl-clutching won’t make native plants any less bland.
Project Timeline – The Finish Line (We Hope)
Yes, we’re still on track to have the trail open by June 2025 — mark your calendars (just don’t write it in pen). This timeline depends on everything from the “bat season” delay to the infamous paperwork shuffle. If all the stars align (and no new wildlife habitats suddenly appear), we’ll be ready to roll out the welcome mat and show off this trail come summer 2025.
Until then, stay tuned for more riveting updates on walls, ramps, handrails, and native plants!
Next Up – The Other Sections:
Loridans to Sandy Springs: We’re waiting on the Mayor and GDOT to sign off, and then it goes through the infamous bureaucratic “marble machine” just in time for bat season — translation: we can’t do anything until March.
Miami Circle Gateway: The granite and handrails are nearly done. We’ve also started talks with the City to add some artsy sculptures here. We’re in line behind murals and decorated traffic boxes so it could be a while, but when it’s finally done, it’ll look amazing!
A Special Request
From my son Will’s childhood dream of a petting zoo to a reality of vibrant animal sculptures, PATH400 is evolving into a beloved community space. With your gift to Livable Buckhead, we’re bringing in a whole new kind of wild: kinetic animal sculptures. Imagine walking across the new Mountain Way Common bridge and spotting a vibrant giraffe or lion below (not real ones, of course!). Your donation today will help bring these sculptures to life.
Let’s continue to make PATH400 a more magical place. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to vote on which animals will call PATH400 home and to see how Livable Buckhead keeps our community awesome.
Experience Holiday Magic in Buckhead during Miracle on Peachtree Festivities
Buckhead is brimming with celebrations this holiday season! A holiday market, afternoon teas with Santa, hot chocolate crawls, a Christmas tree lighting and wreath decorating for Atlanta first responders are just a few highlights of Miracle on Peachtree, Buckhead’s annual season of festivities.
Whether you are looking for a memory-making experience for the entire family or a unique setting for date night or a celebration with friends, Buckhead has something to fit the bill. Visit the Miracle on Peachtree section of Livable Buckhead’s website for all the details on holiday celebrations.
