February 6, 2025

PATH400 Trail Extension Project to Transform North Buckhead

Northford Structural Connections (NSC)

Northford Structural Connections (NSC) specializes in innovative engineering solutions for enhancing the safety and durability of precast concrete structures. Their patented products, including the Double-Tee Flexible Connection (DTFC) and Double-Tee Connection Pro (DTC Pro), address critical challenges like fatigue, corrosion, and seismic resilience. With a focus on quality and longevity, NSC provides advanced connection systems trusted by industry professionals for both retrofitting and new construction projects.

News Summary

The PATH400 Trail Extension project is set to commence construction in March, enhancing mobility between Atlanta and Central Perimeter with a new 12-foot multi-use trail. The project aims to connect communities over 8 miles while promoting recreational activities and transportation alternatives. Funding issues have arisen, but local officials are pursuing additional support. The initiative also includes ecological improvements and aims to integrate with existing regional trails to create a sustainable transportation network.

The Exciting PATH400 Trail Extension Project is Set to Transform North Buckhead and Sandy Springs!

Construction Set to Kick Off in March

The highly anticipated PATH400 Trail Extension project is on the fast track to improving mobility between Atlanta and Central Perimeter as local officials have officially set a groundbreaking date for this March. Following a crucial vote on February 4, Sandy Springs has approved a $1.5 million contract for construction engineering and inspection. This paved the way for an innovative three-year initiative that promises to redefine the way residents navigate the area.

Connecting Communities with a 12-Foot-Wide Multi-Use Trail

Spanning approximately 8 miles, the new trail will feature a generous 12-foot-wide multi-use path along Georgia 400. This construction project not only aims to enhance recreational activities but also focuses heavily on transportation alternatives within the bustling urban environment. Development of the trail is expected to set a new standard as the city transitions toward a more pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

The contract for construction has been awarded to F.S. Scarborough, who will be responsible for building two-thirds of the required segments for this 2.3-mile trail extension that runs from North Buckhead to Central Perimeter. The funding for this project largely stems from federal resources allocated by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).

City Coordination and Funding Challenges

In a strategic partnership, Atlanta is set to cover the construction costs from Loridans Drive to Nancy Creek. Meanwhile, Sandy Springs will take charge of building the bridge over Nancy Creek, connecting to Windsor Parkway, and another segment stretching from Ridgeview Charter Middle School to just north of Johnson Ferry Road. However, it has come to light that the middle section of the trail extension is fraught with funding uncertainties, resulting in that particular segment not currently scheduled for construction.

In an effort to pave the way for financial progress, Sandy Springs is actively chasing additional funding from both the Atlanta Regional Commission and GDOT to address a significant estimated funding gap of around $15 million for the middle section.

Stream Bank Stabilization and Environmental Considerations

As part of the trail’s construction, a 60-year-old sewer line located beneath the creek bed will require removal. This critical infrastructure supports approximately 10 homes and will need to be addressed prior to any stream bank improvements in Abernathy Greenway South. The total costs associated with planned stream bank stabilization and stormwater improvements are set at about $3.9 million.

To assist in funding these vital updates, the city has secured a $400,000 federal grant from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, complemented by a local match of $1.5 million.

Ensuring Quality and Compliance Throughout Construction

The city aims to uphold maximum compliance with federal standards as the project unfolds, with a lead inspector stationed daily on-site. They will be responsible for ensuring rigorous adherence to materials testing, certification, proper bidding procedures, and wage documentation.

Having undergone a detailed design process, Sandy Springs and Atlanta are collaborating professionally at every stage. Plans entail not just a trail but also the installation of new trees and public art beneath the bridge at Mountain Way Common, ensuring the artistic and ecological elements enhance the community experience.

A Future Within Reach: Integrating with Regional Trails

The PATH400 Trail Extension project is more than a simple connectivity solution; it represents a transformative shift in transportation options for residents in the area. The multi-use path is expected to serve as a vital link connecting with the Atlanta BeltLine and other regional trails in Sandy Springs and northern Fulton County.

By investing in projects like PATH400, local authorities signal a clear commitment to evolving transportation infrastructure from a historically car-centric model into a dynamic, sustainable network that embraces various modes of transportation.

As the clock ticks down to March, residents can look forward to groundbreaking activity, which marks the beginning of a thrilling journey towards enhanced mobility and a greener city landscape!