The DIRT on PATH400
Denise Starling, executive director of Livable Buckhead, gives us the dirt on PATH400 progress. This vibrant, 5.2-mile greenway runs along the heart of Buckhead, connecting people, places and possibilities.
Construction Updates
Wieuca to Loridans: Where Progress Inches Along: You know that magical moment in building a house when the framing goes up in a flash and you’re suddenly convinced you hired the unicorn of contractors? Yeah, trail building starts like that. And then… welcome to molasses mode.
We’re so close to wrapping up the Wieuca to Loridans section. The trees and shrubs are in (with a last-minute add-on of ten hollies, because obviously), and now we’re down to the trail glamour: grasses, striping, signage, crosswalks, and of course — the beloved handrails. It’s not the sexy stuff, but it’s what gets us over the finish line.
Loridans to Sandy Springs: We’re Digging In: Construction is moving along north of Loridans. The most painful part – tree clearing – is done on the southern end. Why, you ask are trees cleared south of Loridans? Because the trail gets fancy: a switchback under Loridans connects the two segments. Trail logic, folks. It’s all part of the magic.
Sandy Springs to 285/400: PATH400’s Northern Leap: Great news, trail enthusiasts! PATH400 is now fully funded to extend through Sandy Springs, connecting seamlessly to the 285/400 interchange. Thanks to an $18 million grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission, this extension will bridge the gap between Loridans Drive and the bustling interchange, enhancing connectivity for walkers and bikers alike. Construction is underway, with the city aiming to complete the 2.3-mile stretch in the coming years.
Concrete Barrier Chronicles: Episode IV: You’ve heard of fast and furious. This is slow and cautious — aka the GDOT way. After three cars took a detour into the landscape buffer (seriously?), we’re pushing hard to get a concrete barrier in place between the highway and the trail. The bid should hit the streets next week, then the clock starts on a 30-day proposal period. Cue the dramatic music and your collective groan. But, as Mama always says: Safety First. (Even if it comes with a delay.)
Let’s Talk Turf: More Than Just a Lawn
Today’s nerdy (aka David M) trail tidbit? GRASS. So. Many. Grasses. There are turf mixes with names like DS3, which sounds less like a landscaping solution and more like a Star Wars droid. All I want is a grass that:
- Looks good without mowing
- Doesn’t turn into a jungle
- Won’t make me regret life on a slope
Why is this so hard? Suddenly I get why “Turf Management” is a real college degree. Hats off to you, grass gurus.
Beltline Connection: $25M RAISE Grant in Jeopardy
Hold onto your handlebars! The $25 million RAISE grant awarded to the Atlanta Beltline for the Northeast Trail—intended to link the Beltline to PATH400, Peachtree Creek Greenway, and South Fork Conservancy Trails—is facing potential cuts. Federal funding uncertainties have put this critical project at risk, threatening to derail plans for enhanced regional trail connectivity. Learn more on Axios.
What Can You Do?
Your voice matters! Let your elected officials know how vital this connection is for Atlanta’s trail network. Advocate for the preservation of this grant to ensure our city’s trails continue to flourish.
That’s your PATH400 gossip for the month. Until next time, keep calm and mulch on!
Professional Barrier Beggar | Grass Whisperer | Trail Nerd Extraordinaire
