The DIRT 11/2019: Why is that gate closed?

Denise Starling, executive director of Livable Buckhead, gives us the dirt on PATH400 progress.

“Why is that gate on PATH400 closed?”

That question has been popping up in the Livable Buckhead inbox quite a bit over the past few weeks. I have a simple answer — unfortunately, the Sidney Marcus to Miami Circle segment isn’t open yet – but it’s the inevitable follow-up question that stumps me every time.

“When will the new part of PATH400 be open?”

Unfortunately, the only answer I have right now is that my guess is as good as yours. We cannot open until we get final sign off from MARTA and Norfolk Southern since the trail runs alongside their properties . The issues holding us up are fence locations, security cameras (how many and where they go) and landscaping. We are trying to create a trail environment that is both enjoyable and safe, and we have a different idea about how to achieve that than MARTA does. We’ve been working through the issues and looking for a suitable compromise, but we haven’t reached one yet.

What does this mean for you? The trail is not open, so please stay off it. I know it’s tempting, but DON’T DO IT. There have been some instances of people breaking through the fence, and every time it happens it has a negative impact on our negotiations and our ability to get the trail open and ready for EVERYONE to enjoy. In other words… help me help you. 😊