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Atlanta City Council Honors Former Mayor with Name Changes

A view of Shirley Clarke Franklin Park showcasing trails and natural beauty.

News Summary

The Atlanta City Council has unanimously voted to rename prominent locations in honor of former Mayor Shirley Clarke Franklin. The Westside Reservoir Park will become Shirley Clarke Franklin Park, and a stretch of Central Avenue will transform into Shirley Clarke Franklin Boulevard. These name changes celebrate Franklin’s legacy as the first Black woman to serve as mayor in the Southern United States, recognizing her significant contributions to Atlanta’s development and urban landscape.

Atlanta City Council Takes Major Step to Honor Former Mayor

In a heartfelt move, the Atlanta City Council has unanimously voted to rename two prominent locations in the city as a special tribute to the incredible legacy of Shirley Clarke Franklin. The Westside Reservoir Park, a scenic spot loved by the locals, will now take on the name Shirley Clarke Franklin Park. Meanwhile, a busy stretch of Central Avenue—from Decatur Street SE to Pryor Street SW—will become Shirley Clarke Franklin Boulevard. These changes were made to celebrate Franklin’s tremendous contributions to Atlanta and to honor her unforgettable role in the city’s history.

A Trailblazing Leader

Shirley Franklin made waves in Atlanta by becoming the first Black woman to hold the office of mayor in any major city in the Southern United States. Serving two full terms from 2002 to 2010, Franklin was a game-changer, often affectionately referred to as the “Sewer Mayor”. This nickname came about from her tireless efforts to revamp Atlanta’s water system, ensuring it met federal clean water regulations. Her vision didn’t stop there; she played a significant role in initiating the groundbreaking Atlanta Beltline project, which has now become a major highlight of the city’s landscape.

Transformations Under Her Leadership

Franklin’s time in office significantly transformed Atlanta, with a keen focus on improving the city’s parks, expanding affordable housing options, and enhancing the water infrastructure—making the city better for all its residents. The Westside Reservoir Park, which officially opened its gates in 2021, stands as a testament to her vision. This stunning 280-acre park sits on the site of the former Bellwood Quarry, boasting a massive freshwater reservoir capable of holding a whopping 2.4 billion gallons of water, designated for emergency use.

An Urban Oasis

The park also features a rejuvenating 2.5-mile trail encircling the reservoir, a favorite spot for joggers and walkers looking to take in the beautiful surroundings. The renaming of the park and the road highlights Franklin’s immense impact on the community, as articulated by several city leaders, including Councilmember Andrea Boone.

Recognizing Influence and Legacy

A commission formed to gather suggestions on how best to honor Franklin’s legacy acknowledged her influential role in shaping Atlanta’s vibrant urban landscape. Their efforts included gathering input from the public to ensure a comprehensive approach to this important decision. The renaming process is not only a local milestone but resonates beyond Atlanta, as Franklin’s contributions have garnered recognition nationally.

A Lasting Tribute

With these name changes, residents will be reminded of Franklin’s extraordinary service to Atlanta as they walk through the park and drive down the boulevard bearing her name. It’s a beautiful way to ensure that her legacy of leadership, compassion, and dedication to public service is not forgotten. The whole city can take pride in this recognition and continue to be inspired by her trailblazing journey.

In a nutshell, this celebration of Shirley Clarke Franklin’s contributions serves as a lasting reminder: Atlanta owes a great deal of its growth and success to the efforts of passionate leaders like her. Here’s to the sunny future ahead for Atlanta as we honor the past!