Atlanta, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta’s Department of Transportation is launching the Complete Streets Project to enhance safety and walkability on Juniper Street. This initiative will reduce drivable lanes from four to two and introduce safer environments for pedestrians and cyclists. With a $100 million investment under the Vision Zero campaign, the project aims to eliminate traffic-related fatalities, addressing the alarming statistic that one-third of all traffic fatalities involve pedestrians, cyclists, or scooter riders. Despite minor expected travel delays, local businesses anticipate positive impacts from increased foot traffic as a result of the upgrades.
Atlanta is set to enhance safety and walkability on Juniper Street through the implementation of the Complete Streets Project by the Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATL DOT). This initiative aims to reduce the number of drivable lanes from three or four to two while creating safer environments for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter riders. The project is part of a broader $100 million investment under the city’s Vision Zero campaign, which intends to eliminate traffic-related fatalities.
ATL DOT has outlined that the Complete Streets Project will include the addition of on-street parking, designated loading areas, and a buffered bike lane, all designed to increase safety for all road users. The urgency for such improvements is underscored by the statistic that pedestrian, cyclist, and scooter fatalities on city streets account for about one-third of all traffic fatalities in Atlanta.
Betty Smoot-Madison from ATL DOT indicated that potential travel delays caused by the construction would be minimal, estimated at only ten to fifteen seconds. Meanwhile, Kevin Green, CEO of Midtown Alliance, noted that there were 570 reported crashes on Juniper Street over the five years preceding the project. These incidents involved various road users, highlighting the need for urgent safety improvements as Midtown experiences significant growth, illustrated by the addition of 65 new high-rises in the past decade.
The impacts of the project also have potential positive ramifications for local businesses. Restaurant owners like Firas Masri of Olive Bistro, who relies on pedestrian traffic, anticipate that the improved safety for customers accessing his establishment will benefit his business. The project aims to create a “great walkable district,” encouraging more foot traffic in the area.
Despite the initiatives to promote safety, concerns have arisen regarding the continuity of federal funding for infrastructure projects across metro Atlanta, particularly after recent governmental changes that threaten previously promised financial support. This uncertainty could impact not only pedestrian safety initiatives but also other critical projects like the Stitch, which aims to build a park and retail space over the Downtown Connector.
As pedestrian fatalities have surged following a series of tragic events downtown, local leaders are urgently advocating for safety upgrades in the transportation framework. Atlanta’s Vision Zero legislation underscores the city’s commitment to prioritizing safety in all road projects amidst ongoing construction efforts.
Nonetheless, some business owners, particularly those located on Cascade Road, have expressed frustrations over the financial strain resulting from extended construction related to the Complete Streets Project. In response, city officials are exploring grant funding opportunities to assist affected businesses as work continues.
The Complete Streets Project is currently projected for completion by October, aligning with the broader city goal of enhancing public safety and access throughout Atlanta’s streets.
FAQ
What is the Complete Streets Project in Atlanta?
The Complete Streets Project aims to enhance safety and walkability on Juniper Street by reducing drivable lanes and creating bike lanes, on-street parking, and loading areas.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is currently slated for completion by October.
How much is being invested in the Complete Streets Project?
A total of $100 million is being allocated as part of Atlanta’s Vision Zero campaign to improve safety across the city.
How will this project affect local businesses?
Some business owners are concerned about the financial impact of extended construction times, while others believe the project will improve customer access and safety, thereby increasing foot traffic.
What are the safety statistics associated with Juniper Street?
There were 570 crashes involving cars, pedestrians, and cyclists on Juniper Street over the past five years, indicating a critical need for improved safety measures.
How will potential federal funding changes affect the project?
Recent changes in the administration could jeopardize over half of the federal funding promised for infrastructure projects, impacting pedestrian safety initiatives and other related projects.
Key Features of the Complete Streets Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Lane Reduction | Drivable lanes reduced from three or four to two. |
| Bike Lane | Creation of a buffered bike lane for increased cyclist safety. |
| On-Street Parking | Addition of on-street parking and loading areas. |
| Investment | Total of $100 million as part of Vision Zero. |
| Completion Timeline | Expected to be completed by October. |
| Safety Statistics | 570 crashes reported on Juniper Street over the last five years. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Transportation Improvements and Construction Contracts in Georgia
Additional Resources
- 11Alive: Complete Streets Project in Midtown
- Google Search: Complete Streets Project Atlanta
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Cascade Road Construction Frustration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pedestrian Safety
- Planetizen: Midtown Atlanta Complete Streets Projects
- Google News: Atlanta Infrastructure Projects
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
