Atlanta, GA, September 2, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta City Council has approved an ordinance to allocate funds from the Atlanta Recovery Fund to assist businesses along Cascade Road affected by ongoing construction. The unanimous vote aims to provide financial relief after business owners reported severe impacts on foot traffic and sales. Additionally, the council addressed safety measures for MARTA following a recent escalator incident and approved various contracts for city projects.
Atlanta – The Atlanta City Council has taken decisive action to support struggling businesses along Cascade Road by approving an ordinance that allows Invest Atlanta to allocate remaining funds from the Atlanta Recovery Fund. The decision, made during a meeting on September 2, comes after business owners have expressed serious concerns over economic disruptions caused by ongoing construction related to the Cascade Road Complete Street project.
The council voted unanimously in favor of redirecting funds that were originally earmarked for businesses impacted by water main breaks expected in spring 2024. This decision aims to provide immediate financial relief to local entrepreneurs who are grappling with the effects of reduced foot traffic and sales due to road closures.
In previous council meetings, business owners along Cascade Road had voiced their frustrations about the prolonged construction period and had been seeking clarity regarding a timeline for when the construction would conclude. They called for financial support to help mitigate their losses. As a response to these pleas, the Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) took action by implementing continuous construction schedules, ultimately allowing the road to reopen as of August 30.
In addition to the financial support for Cascade Road’s businesses, the city council is also prioritizing safety improvements along the road for pedestrians and cyclists. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance roadway infrastructure and ensure community safety amidst ongoing construction.
The council’s meeting also addressed key issues concerning the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). A resolution was approved requesting MARTA to provide an update on safety protocols and infrastructure accountability following a serious escalator malfunction at the Vine City MARTA station on July 15, which resulted in injuries to 24 individuals. The malfunction occurred after a high volume of passengers exited following a concert, raising questions about crowd control and safety measures.
In a separate incident just after the escalator malfunction, two MARTA police officers were shot at the Five Points station, further exacerbating concerns about safety in public transit. As part of their safety update, MARTA will review escalator inspection history, the cause of the malfunction, and risk analysis concerning crowd control measures.
In addition to these issues, the council acted on several legislative matters, including approving a $14.5 million contract for the construction of Fire Station 29-EMS and securing $625,000 for a passenger rail study with $125,000 in matching funds. They also allocated charitable donations amounting to $600,000 for the Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation and $500,000 for the Grove Park Foundation. Furthermore, the council resolved to eliminate all parking meters in the Atkins Park Commercial Zone of Virginia-Highland.
Business owners along Cascade Road, with the endorsement of Ambassador Andrew Young, have voiced their desire for equitable financial support, similar to assistance offered to businesses in other parts of the city, such as Buckhead and Midtown. Many business owners have criticized the city for previously only offering loans, asserting that grants would more effectively aid their recovery efforts.
Since the reopening of Cascade Road, local entrepreneurs have reported a significant uptick in walk-in traffic and sales, indicating that the measures taken by the city and the council’s approval of financial support are resonating positively within the community. It has been nearly four years since construction on Cascade Road began, which has faced numerous delays due to community input and roadway design challenges. The city is committed to further supporting businesses recovering from ongoing construction disruptions.
FAQ
- What financial support has the Atlanta City Council approved for Cascade Road businesses?
The council approved an ordinance allowing Invest Atlanta to redeploy funds from the Atlanta Recovery Fund to support businesses impacted by ongoing construction. - Why are businesses along Cascade Road facing difficulties?
Businesses are struggling due to road closures from the Cascade Road Complete Street project, which has hindered foot traffic and sales. - What safety measures are being implemented following the escalator malfunction at the Vine City MARTA station?
MARTA will provide a safety update, including inspection history and details on crowd control measures and risk analysis regarding the escalator’s malfunction. - What has been the community’s response since the reopening of Cascade Road?
Business owners have reported a noticeable increase in walk-in traffic and revenue since the road’s reopening on August 30.
Key Features of the Atlanta City Council Meeting
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Financial Support Approved | Funds redirected from Atlanta Recovery Fund to support Cascade Road businesses |
| Construction Challenges | Ongoing construction for nearly four years, impacting local businesses |
| MARTA Safety Update | Investigation following escalator malfunction injury incident |
| Community Impact | Reported increase in sales and foot traffic after road reopening |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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