Exciting New Trails and Parks Coming to Metro Atlanta!
Hey there, Atlanta! Great news is coming your way as a fantastic project is underway that aims to connect almost 20 cities in our metro area with an extensive network of 100 miles of new trails and parks. It’s an effort that is sure to make your weekends much more enjoyable, whether you love hiking, biking, or just soaking in nature.
A Generous Donation
This week, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation stepped up to the plate and donated a whopping $2.5 million to the Chattahoochee RiverLands project. This project is a remarkable initiative from the Trust for Public Land, aiming to develop parks and trails that would connect 19 cities across seven counties in our booming metropolitan area.
To give you a sense of scale, this generous donation pushes the private funding for the project to over $22 million. Meanwhile, another $27 million is being contributed through public funding sources. This fantastic financial backing means the team will be able to finish crucial components of the project, such as the Cobb County Showcase Site and the Camp + Paddle Trail.
What’s in Store?
The vision doesn’t stop at just creating trails; the project promises to have 42 access points and eight campsites scattered throughout the metro area. Imagine kayaking along a gorgeous river or camping overnight under the stars, all just a short drive from home!
Speaking about the project, George Dusenbury, the Georgia State Director at Trust for Public Land, expressed enthusiasm. He shared, “Trust for Public Land is ecstatic to have the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation invest in our efforts to connect 20 cities and 7 counties through our Chattahoochee RiverLands work.” He firmly believes that this initiative will have a transformative impact not just on our region, but on the whole state.
The Camp + Paddle Trail
Now, let’s dive a bit deeper into the Camp + Paddle Trail. This is set to be a phenomenal 48-mile journey along the Chattahoochee River, offering a three-night, four-day kayaking and camping experience. The adventure begins at Peachtree Creek in North Atlanta and extends all the way to the McIntosh Reserve in Carroll County. Can you picture yourself kayaking with friends or family? Sounds like a blast!
Along the way, you’ll find kayaking launches in Atlanta, and camping sites at some ledges, including the Buzzrd Roost Island in Fulton County and Campbellton Park in Chattahoochee Hills. Plus, there’s another campsite waiting for you at the newly established Chattahoochee Hills RiverLands Park. The cherry on top is the stunning McIntosh Reserve at the end of the trail, which is a sprawling 1,400-acre greenspace.
Highlighting Community Benefits
In Cobb County, get ready for the showcase site which features an exciting nearly three-mile greenway and trail that stretches from Mableton to Smyrna. This site will not only feature a new 12-acre RiverLands Gateway Park but also bring in multiple new amenities, three river access points, restoration projects, and improved infrastructure aimed at reducing flooding and enhancing water quality.
Fay Twersky, president of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, summed it up beautifully when she said, “Access to the Chattahoochee River will bring metro Atlanta another connection to the outdoors, which is vitally important to our community’s overall well-being.”
Wrapping Up
With all these exciting developments, it looks like Atlanta is on the brink of becoming even more connected to nature! This initiative will surely enhance not just our recreational opportunities but also play a big part in fostering community resilience and health. So, gear up, Atlanta, because some fantastic adventures await us in the beautiful outdoors!
